Get Qatar International Driving License: Apply now 2025
Qatar Requires International Driving License
In Qatar, an international driving license is accepted and issued as a valid license. Of course, if you are driving in Qatar with a foreign driver’s license, you will have to carry an IDL for that, too.
But if you are concerned about how to get a Qatar International driving license, you need not worry. This guide will take you through the essential steps, whether you are a Qatari citizen, resident, or visitor.
Steps to Apply for a Qatar International Driving License:
Qatar International Driving License (IDL) or International Driving Permit (IDP):
Consider these as a passport for your driving license worldwide. IDL translates your driving data into several languages, making it easily understandable and accepted by other countries’ officials. This is especially true when traveling in countries that only sometimes use the English language.
Seven-Day Rule:
If your license comes from an approved country, you can use it within seven days of arrival in Qatar.
Temporary license:
If you drive in Qatar for up to three months, you must get a Temporary License. All you need is your original driving license, passport, and photocopies of the said and three color passport-size photos to the Traffic Department in Madinat Khalifa. The best part is that these Temporary Licenses can be renewed if needed.
You can also see the steps for Car insurance in Qatar.
Where to get a Qatar International driving license
Driving Schools:
Attend a government-approved driving school to obtain a license.
Travel Agencies
Contact any trusted travel agency.
Updated List of Travel Agencies:
Qatar Automobile and Touring Club
As a resident, apply directly to the club for an International Driving Permit or Carnet de Passages.
Timing and location (QATC):
Qatar International Driving License Requirements
To get and utilize a driving license in Qatar, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Documents Required for IDP in Qatar:
The following is a list of what will be needed
Here is the process to check your Qatar ID Status and renew Qatar ID.
Format of International Driving License Qatar
Qatar IDL is in booklet format with a cover page and inner pages. Some of the details are personal and residency permit numbers in Qatar, and they have been translated into various languages such as English, French, Arabic, and Spanish. IDL is usually issued for one year from the date of issuance.
Changing an International Driving License
Well, all people from GCC countries, as well as those with permits issued by
Monaco, Germany, Luxembourg, Portugal, France, the United States of America, Sweden, Australia, Canada, Norway, Belgium, New Zealand, Malaysia, Andorra, Brunei, Japan, Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, Austria, Finland, Hong Kong, Denmark, Greece, Singapore, Spain, Ireland, Vatican City, San Marino, Switzerland, Iceland, South Korea, Italy, and the UK can swap the permits they currently carry for a driving license issued by Qatar if they have:
Other usual requirements such as medical fitness and so forth.
Essential Considerations for Getting a Qatar International Driving License
Latest Countries to exchange Driver’s Licenses in Qatar
There is a list of countries where the Qatar IDL is broadly accepted. Nevertheless, always confirm through the embassy/consulate of the country destination you are headed to for the most updated information.
| Country | Country |
|---|---|
| Bahrain | Belgium |
| Denmark | Finland |
| France | Germany |
| Greece | Italy |
| Netherlands | Norway |
| Oman | Poland |
| Portugal | Romania |
| Saudi Arabia | Spain |
| Sweden | Switzerland |
| Turkey | UAE |
| UK |
How to exchange a foreign driver’s license in Qatar
Foreigners can get an exchange of their license directly in a Qatari one. And this is valid for five years. But these allowed countries could change occasionally, so double-check on its updated version with the Traffic Department. Also, note that license exchange is open only to foreigners with residence permits; hence, if your Qatari ID is still being processed, you must wait until it is completed. Once all this is done, you can proceed to the Traffic Department at Madinat Khalifa with all these papers. You are expected to submit the following:
Driving with Qatar International Driving License
In a nutshell:
Acquiring a Qatar international driving license requires commitment and preparation. Following this guide and making the right effort, you will be ready to complete the process and become a licensed driver in Qatar sitting in your country. So do not wait and apply fast for your IDL.
Once you have secured your license, always practice safe driving and obey Traffic laws. Drive safely!
