Here’s how to get a driver’s license in Qatar

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Here’s how to get a driver’s license in Qatar

You can get around the city or reach your destination throughout Qatar using different modes of public transportation, however, if you prefer to drive your own vehicle, you will need to have a valid driver’s license.

In Qatar, the official authority for issuing a driver’s license is the Traffic Department. Here’s how you can acquire a license if you plan to drive in Qatar.

Note: Some job categories are not eligible to apply for a driving license in Qatar. Please verify with any driving school if your profession is eligible to get a license.

Some of the requirements for new drivers

You must be 18 years or older to drive a lightweight vehicle or motorcycle in Qatar
You must have a valid residency permit (QID) or other valid identification documents, such as a visa or an original passport
You will be required to take an eye test (the Traffic Department, clinics approved by the Traffic Department, and some driving schools provide this service)
You will be required to enroll in driving school and take theory and practical lessons
You will be required to take theory and driving tests and pass both

1. Applying to driving school

To enroll in one of the authorized driving schools in Qatar, residents are required to submit the following items to the school:

ID card and one copy
4 recent color photographs (passport size)
NOC from sponsor (via Metrash2 or MOI website)
Eye Test certificate
Filled out course application form
If applicable, an original valid home country license to apply for half course

2. Once you’ve enrolled in driving school

To be able to take the test, a learner must have at least 15 hours of theoretical classes and a minimum of 35 hours of driving lessons
Most driving schools offer male and female instructors and the test may be taken in English or Arabic
A choice of manual or automatic transmission vehicles is available
The driving test comprises of a theory test, a parking test, and a road test
You will take all parts of the test and will be informed at each stage whether you have passed or failed. If you fail one part of the test, you will not proceed to the next stage of the test
The driving license will be issued immediately after passing all tests. You will need to pay a fee of QR 250 (valid for 5 years). For Qataris, a fee of QR 500 (valid for 10 years)

3. For new residents in Qatar holding a driving license from another country

If you hold a driving license issued from your country, you will be referred to a driving school to take a test to assess your driving ability
If you pass this test, you will be issued a Qatari driving license
If you fail the test on the second attempt, you will be referred to a full training course at an approved driving school

If you’re an expat and you already have a driver’s license from your country, you can use an international driving permit for up to six months. However, you are required to hold a Qatari driving license once this period ends.

Qatar recognizes some licenses from other countries, these can be converted into a Qatari license without the requirement of taking any driving lessons or tests.

Note: Check from a driving school if your current driving license is valid for exchange or direct test before you enroll for a driving course.

4. For tourists, including those from the GCC

If you hold 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’ll be required to hold a Qatari driving license
If you hold a valid driving license from one of the GCC countries (if you’re visiting relatives or you’re touring Qatar) you can drive for up to three months from the date you enter the country
It is essential that drivers carry their passport or entry visa details at all times

Are you planning to get a driver’s license in Qatar? Did this article help? Comment below! And share this article—it keeps us going!

Sources: Hukoomi, karwadrivingschool.com

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