Driving in Qatar on foreign license

jkp1982
By jkp1982

Please help... I have an Australian Drivers License and have been told that I can drive in Qatar for a limited amount of time. I need to know how long I can drive for, before I need a Qatari or International license?? I am getting mixed answers and can't seem to find the official rule... Thanks, Jeremy

By ICU• 31 Dec 2007 20:51
ICU

It is best not to drive with International Licence. I used to drive while I have met a Qatari Lady stating international licence cannot help me in case of accident due to her personal experiences. It is best to apply for a Qatari temporary licence.

By swissgirl39• 31 Dec 2007 20:43
swissgirl39

tourist visa normally for 2 weeks,can be refreshed for another 2 weeks.as american you should get it on the airport when you arrive in Doha.As far as i know.

By signalmo• 31 Dec 2007 20:39
signalmo

Hi every body

I'm kind of new to the form. Just wanted to know if someone can help me out here.

I need to get a tourist or Vist visa . Now what is the length or the duration for the both of these visas ?

Any kind of help will be highly appreciated.

Once again thanks for considerations

By RocknRoll• 29 Dec 2007 15:50
RocknRoll

or an International Drivers License ASAP. The penalties for driving without licenses are harsh and there is no court of appeal either.

By jkp1982• 29 Dec 2007 15:05
jkp1982

I have a tourist visa. Does that mean that I can drive on my Australian License for the length of the visa???

By anonymous• 29 Dec 2007 14:56
anonymous

referring to ur Driving License , u can only drive for a limited time as long as u have a tourist visa, if you have a residence you cant.

By alicat• 29 Dec 2007 12:55
alicat

I suggest you go to the traffic police and ask - with all the new traffic rules here in the last few months I would ask the people who 'should' know.

But then again they change their minds on things so often what they say today might be different in two weeks time!

By boer• 29 Dec 2007 12:52
boer

Don't take this as gospel but I had the thing explained to me recently:

Get an International Driver's Licence a.s.a.p. It's valid for 3 weeks in Qatar (as opposed to 3 or 6 months elsewhere).

Within these 3 weeks, go to the Traffic Dept. in Madinat Khalifa and apply for a temporary Qatari licence. This is then valid for three months.

This was from a pretty knowledgeable source.

I am not sure if an Australian licence qualifies for exemption from the test. I think not because they seem to only exempt 1st world licences from countries that drive on the right side. Worth a shot though.

Good luck.

*** Light travels faster than sound. That's why most people appear bright until they open their mouths.

Log in or register to post comments

More from Qatar Living

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Let's dive into the best beaches in Qatar, where you can have a blast with water activities, sports and all around fun times.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

This guide brings you the top apps that will simplify the use of government services in Qatar.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

this guide presents the top must-have Qatar-based apps to help you navigate, dine, explore, access government services, and more in the country.
Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

Stuck with a week-long holiday and bored kids? We've got a one week activity plan for fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in  high-end elegance

Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in high-end elegance

Delve into a world of culinary luxury as we explore the upmarket hotels and fine dining restaurants serving exquisite Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.