Tired of wasting hours in traffic department queues? Qatar driving license renewal process has gone digital, saving you time and hassle. The Ministry of Interior now offers quick online options through e-Services and Metrash, letting you renew your license in minutes from anywhere.
Requirements for Qatar License Renewal
Before starting the online license renewal process, make sure you have:
- Your current Qatar driving license (even if recently expired)
- Valid Qatar ID (QID)
- Credit or debit card for payment
- Smart card (only if using MOI e-Services portal)
- Qatar address for delivery if choosing QPost option
The Qatar driving license renewal process differs slightly based on whether you’re a Qatari citizen or an expatriate resident. Citizens receive 10-year licenses while expatriates get 5-year validity periods.
How to Check Your Qatar Driving License Expiry Date?
You can check when your Qatar driving license expires through the Ministry of Interior website:
- Visit the MOI website
- Go to “MOI Services” in the main menu
- Select “Inquiries” then “Other inquiries”
- Click on “Official Documents”
- Enter your QID number and verification code
- Look for the driving license expiry date in the results
The MOI allows license renewal up to six months before expiration. Starting early helps avoid last-minute problems and potential fines.
How to Renew Qatar Driving License Online?
Qatar offers two convenient digital platforms for renewing your driving license online:
Method 1: Renewing Through MOI e-Services
The Ministry of Interior’s e-Services portal provides official Qatar license renewal services. This method requires a smart card:
- Visit the MOI e-Services portal
- Log in using your QID and smart card
- Select “Traffic Services” from the main menu
- Click on “Driving License” in the traffic services section
- Choose “Driving License Renewal”
- Select either “Renew Driving License” (for yourself) or “Another Sponsored Person” (if renewing for someone else)
- Verify all license information shown on screen
- Provide your delivery address for QPost delivery
- Pay the renewal fee using your credit/debit card
- Download the receipt PDF for your records
This process takes approximately 5-7 minutes to complete and is available 24/7.
Method 2: Renewing Through Metrash App
The Metrash mobile application is the most popular option for Qatar driving license renewal since it doesn’t require a smart card:
- Download the Metrash app from Google Play or Apple App Store
- Register or log in using your QID
- From the home screen, tap on “Traffic”
- Select “License Services”
- Tap “Renew Driving License”
- Enter your QID number when prompted
- Choose your delivery method:
- QPost delivery to your address
- Pick-up from Traffic Department
- If selecting QPost, enter your complete mailing address
- Pay the renewal fee using your credit/debit card
- Receive confirmation of your license renewal application
The Metrash app offers the same services as the e-Services portal but with a more user-friendly mobile interface. The app is available in Arabic and English.
How to Track Your Qatar Driving License Delivery?
After completing your online license renewal, you can track your new license delivery:
- Go to the MOI website
- Navigate to “MOI Services” → “QPost Services” → “QPost Request Tracking”
- Enter your QID and verification code
- Click “Submit” to see your delivery status
The QPost delivery typically takes 3-7 days depending on your location in Qatar. The tracking system provides estimated delivery dates and current status updates.
How to Renew Qatar Driving License In-Person at Traffic Department?
If you prefer traditional license renewal or need your new license immediately, you can visit the Traffic Department:
Location: Traffic Department, Khalifa Street, Madinat Khalifa, Doha
Office Hours:
- Morning: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Evening: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
In-person renewal steps:
- Visit the Traffic Department during operating hours
- Take a queue number from the reception desk
- Bring your current/expired driving license and QID
- Wait for your number to be called
- Present your documents at the counter
- Pay the renewal fee (same as online fees)
- Receive your new license immediately
The main advantage of in-person renewal is getting your new Qatar driving license immediately without waiting for delivery. However, you might spend more time due to queues, especially during peak hours.
Fees and Validity Periods of Qatar Driving License
The Qatar driving license renewal fees vary based on your residency status:
| Resident Type | Validity Period | Basic Fee | QPost Delivery |
| Qatari Citizens | 10 Years | QAR 500 | QAR 20 (optional) |
| Expatriates | 5 Years | QAR 250 | QAR 20 (optional) |
Payment can be made using:
- Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard)
- Debit cards linked to Qatari banks
- Cash (only for in-person renewal)
The QPost delivery fee is optional. You can save QAR 20 by collecting your license directly from the Traffic Department after applying online.
Important Deadlines and Penalties
Being aware of deadlines helps avoid fines when renewing your Qatar license:
- You can renew up to 6 months before expiration
- A 30-day grace period exists after expiration
- After the grace period, a QAR 1,500 fine applies for expired licenses
- Driving with an expired license can result in additional traffic violations
The Ministry of Interior strictly enforces these rules, and traffic cameras throughout Qatar can detect vehicles being driven with expired documentation, leading to automatic fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I renew my license if it’s already expired?
Yes, you can renew an expired Qatar driving license.
Q: Can I drive during the renewal process?
Yes, during the 30-day grace period after expiration. However, it’s recommended to carry your renewal receipt if your physical license has expired.
Q: Do I need a medical test for license renewal?
For standard renewals, no medical test is required. However, if you’re over 60 years old or have certain medical conditions, a health certificate might be requested.
Q: Can I change my license category during renewal?
No, the renewal process maintains your current license category. To upgrade or change categories, you must apply separately through the Traffic Department.
Q: How do I renew a commercial driving license?
Commercial license renewal follows the same process but may require additional documents from your employer confirming your continued need for the commercial category.
Q: Can expatriates renew licenses after residency expiration?
No, your Qatar ID must be valid to renew your driving license. Renew your residency first, then proceed with license renewal.
Abdullah Hasham is an expat living in Qatar and the founder of Qatar Navigate. Drawing from his own experiences, he creates practical, easy-to-follow guides to help others settle in, explore, and thrive in Qatar. His goal is to make everyday life simpler for fellow expats, residents, and newcomers alike.