How to get a driving license in Qatar

One of the most commonly asked questions upon moving to Qatar is how to get a driving license.

The application process for a Qatar Driving License is fairly straightforward. You will need to present various documents at the Madinat Khalifa Traffic Department building.

This newer facility has 106 counters open from 7 am to 11 am and 4 pm to 7 pm every day of the week except Friday (closed for holiday).

If you wish to apply for a Qatar Driving License you must meet the following criteria.

• You must be a resident of Qatar.
• You must be at least 18 years of age (light vehicle or motorcycle license), or 21 (heavy vehicle license.
• You must be physically fit.
• You must posses the level of driving proficiency required. Most expats will have to take the driving test at an authorised testing center to prove they meet this requirement.

To start off, print and fill out the application form in Arabic. For a small fee, you may avail of the translation typing services near the Traffic Department building.

Keep in mind there is a license fee, as well as additional fees for driving and vision tests.
The license fee for Qataris is QR 500 (valid for 10 years). The fee for non-Qataris is QR 250 (valid for 5 years).

At the time you apply, you will be asked to take a vision test at the time you apply. Once you pass the eye test and pay the appropriate fee, your driving license will be issued immediately. Fee payment is by card only.

Non-Qatari application requirements

• Applicants must be of legal age to drive.
• ID card or passport and 1 copy.
• A copy of the ID card of your sponsor (if the sponsor is a person).
• A letter from your sponsor to approve the request for a new license.
• 3 recent passport size colour photographs.

Qatari application requirements

• Applicants must be of legal age to drive.
• They must bring their ID card and 1 copy of it.
• They must bring 3 recent colour photographs (passport size)
• Driving learning deposit (3 months) for those who wish to learn to drive using a private car.
• The applicant may apply at an Approved Driving School of his or her choice.

Requirements for new residents in Qatar holding a driving license from another country

• If you hold a driving license issued from your country, or from an accepted body, you will be referred to a driving school to undergo a driving test.
• If you pass the test a Qatar driving license will be issued to you.
• If you fail to pass the test on the second attempt you will be referred to a full training course at an approved driving school.

Requirements for diplomats and officials of international missions

• Book of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• A copy of the diplomatic card
• Original license
• 3 recent passport size colour photographs 

The application is free of charge.

Requirements for those with disabilities or impairments

• If you have a disability or impairment you will be referred to the medical services authority by the traffic department for a disability type report. 
• After the acceptance of the medical report, a license will be granted according to the appraisal.
• Clear indication of the disability is required on the holder’s driving license. A sticker is required on the vehicle in certain cases.

Requirements for tourists 

If you possess a valid international driving license you can drive in Qatar for up to six months from the date you enter the country. After that, you must have a Qatar Driving License to drive.

Source: Hukoomi Qatar e-Government

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