All You Need to Know About Embossed Number Plates in Nepal
The Department of Transport Management (DoTM) first announced the mandatory use of embossed number plates for vehicles in Bagmati and Gandaki provinces in June 2022 — but the idea has been in the works for more than a decade. Initially proposed in the Three-Year Interim Plan (2007–2010), the rollout faced repeated delays between 2016 and 2019.
Now, the government is intensifying efforts to give every vehicle a unique, secure registration. All vehicle owners are required to visit their respective Transport Management Office to install the new plates. Let’s break down what they are, why they matter, and how you can get one.
What is an Embossed Number Plate?
An embossed number plate is a digitally secured license plate that’s machine-readable and made of aluminium with carved (not printed) numbers. It includes a digital signature from the transport authority and is embedded with a microchip and GPS tracker. This allows cameras and systems to automatically recognize and track vehicles.
Compared to traditional plates, these are stronger, more uniform, and harder to tamper with.
Benefits of Embossed Number Plates
- Better Security: Harder to remove or replace, making theft and fraud more difficult.
- Unique Identity: Eliminates repetition of plate numbers by issuing computer-generated codes.
- Reflective Surface: Improves visibility at night, aiding both safety and law enforcement.
- Easier to Read: Standardized font, size, and format improve quick recognition.
- Central Database: Stores ownership and vehicle details in a national record for faster verification.
Who Must Get an Embossed Plate Immediately?
- Vehicles purchased after Mangsir 1, 2078
- Vehicles with ownership transfer after Falgun 1, 2078
- Vehicles renewed after Jestha 1, 2079
Owners in these groups were instructed to install embossed plates before Shrawan 1, 2079 to avoid fines.
How to Get an Embossed Number Plate
- Fill out the online form on the DoTM website.
- Enter your vehicle and personal identification details.
- Receive a reference number and verify it at your assigned Transport Management Office.
- Complete payment, biometric, and verification steps.
- Get a date for installation — numbers are system-generated and cannot be chosen.
Cost of Embossed Number Plates
| Vehicle Type | Cost (Rs.) |
|---|---|
| Two-Wheeler | 2,500 |
| Three-Wheeler | 2,900 |
| Light Four-Wheeler | 3,200 |
| Heavy Four-Wheeler | 3,600 |
*Prices set by DoTM; subject to change.
Conclusion
With over 4.5 million vehicles in Nepal and only 250,000 embossed plates issued so far, full implementation will take time. Still, the benefits in security, uniformity, and data management make this change a crucial step in modernizing Nepal’s transport system. If you haven’t already, start your application today to avoid future penalties.