The Government of Nepal has officially announced that embossed number plates will be mandatory for all vehicles starting Asoj 1, 2082 (mid-September 2025). This rule applies to both newly registered and already existing vehicles across the country.
The Transport Department has made it clear: vehicle registration, transfer, and renewal will not be possible without installing embossed number plates.
This decision was finalized during a meeting held on August 4, 2024, under the leadership of Minister Devendra Dahal, aiming to modernize Nepal’s transport system and ensure better monitoring of vehicles.
What Are Embossed Number Plates?
Embossed number plates are computer-generated digital plates where the characters are raised (embossed) instead of being painted. These plates come with security features like barcodes and chips, making them harder to duplicate or forge.
They include:
- Types of Vehicle (e.g., two-wheeler, four-wheeler, government vehicle, etc.)
- Vehicle Age Identifier Code (AA, BB, CC … ZZ)
- State Code (e.g., State 1, State 2 … State 7)
- Unique Vehicle Number (from 0001 to 9999)
Why Has Nepal Made Them Compulsory?
- Enhanced Security – Helps reduce vehicle theft and illegal duplication of plates.
- Digital Tracking – Each plate will be linked to a database for easy tracking.
- Standardization – Creates a uniform system across all provinces.
- Efficient Vehicle Management – Simplifies registration, renewal, and transfer processes.
- Compliance with International Standards – Brings Nepal closer to global transportation practices.
How Does It Impact Vehicle Owners?
- Existing Vehicle Owners: You must replace your old number plates with embossed plates before your renewal or transfer.
- New Vehicle Buyers: You will automatically receive embossed number plates at registration.
- Without Embossed Plates: No renewal, transfer, or registration will be processed.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Embossed Number Plates in Nepal
- Apply at Transport Management Office – Fill the application for embossed plates.
- Pay the Required Fees – Charges depend on vehicle type (two-wheeler, car, bus, etc.).
- Submit Documents – Citizenship, vehicle bluebook, and tax clearance.
- Installation – Plates will be installed at authorized centers.
- Verification – Your embossed number will be digitally linked to your vehicle record.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of embossed number plates is a big step towards digital transformation in Nepal’s transport sector. While some vehicle owners may find the transition a bit inconvenient, the long-term benefits in terms of security, transparency, and modernization outweigh the short-term hassle.
So, if you own a vehicle in Nepal, make sure you are ready before Asoj 1, 2082. Installing an embossed number plate won’t just keep you legal—it will also make your vehicle more secure and digitally recognized nationwide.
