It is a legal requirement to hold a valid license to drive in Qatar. The Traffic Department is the authorized authority for issuing driving licenses in Qatar. These are the following options depending on your length of stay.
One Arrival – One week rule
Visitors can drive for one week “7 days from arrival” on approved license from some countries. Visit the Traffic Department at Madinat Khalifa to check the validity of your home country license.
Temporary Driving License – Valid for three months.
If you need to drive for longer than a week you can apply for a Temporary License which is valid for three months. It is possible to extend the license when it expires.
How to apply for a temporary license ?
Fill in the an application form and submit it with the following documents to the Traffic Department.
1. Original License from an approved country
2. Original Passport and It’s copy
3. Passport sized 3 color photos, white background. If you need to wear glasses while driving you must be wearing classes in the photos.
International Driving License (Valid for six months)
A valid international driving license can be used for up to six months from the date you enter the country. Generally, temporary and international license holders are restricted to driving rental vehicles as insurance companies require drives of privately owned vehicles to hold a full license.
Full Driving License for forever
If you are resident or hold a Qatar Residence Permit, you may apply for a Qatar Driving License. The license fee for Qataris is QR500 “Valid for 10 years” and QR250 for Nepali or non Qataris “Valid for 5 years. Additional fees may apply for driving and vision tests.