For Qatar residents traveling abroad, an International Driving Permit is essential for legal driving worldwide. This official UN-regulated document costs just QR 150, remains valid for one year, and provides the freedom to drive rental cars across Europe, Asia, and the Americas without complications.
What Is an International Driving License?
An International Driving License, formally called an International Driving Permit (IDP), is a United Nations-regulated travel document that works alongside your Qatar driving license. It doesn’t replace your original license but translates your driving credentials into multiple languages that foreign officials can understand.
Key Features:
- Valid for exactly one year from issue date
- Must be presented with your Qatar Driving License
- Contains translations in 12 international languages
- Recognized in over 150 countries worldwide
- Makes renting cars abroad much easier
- Helps you avoid fines when driving in foreign countries
Who Can Apply for an International Driving License in Qatar?
To be eligible for an International Driving Permit in Qatar, you must:
- Hold a valid Qatar Driving License (not a temporary or learner’s permit)
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a valid Qatar residency permit with minimum six months validity (for expatriates)
- Possess a current passport
Where to Get Your International Driving License in Qatar?
You have three main options for obtaining your International Driving Permit in Qatar:
1. Qatar Automobile and Touring Club (QATC)
QATC is the primary authorized organization for issuing IDPs in Qatar.
Location: Ibn Taymia Street, Opposite C Ring Road, Doha (between Gulf Cinema signal and Toyota signal)
Phone: +974 7478 4371
Working Hours:
- Saturday to Thursday: 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM
- Friday: Closed
2. Authorized Driving Schools
These driving schools are officially approved to issue International Driving Licenses:
- Karwa Driving School
- Alijarah Driving Academy
- Alkhebra Driving School (Note: This school issues permits the next day, unlike same-day service elsewhere)
3. Authorized Travel Agencies
Many travel agencies across Qatar can process your International Driving Permit:
- Darwish Travel Company
- Aamal Travel & Tourism (City Center)
- Al Muftah Rent A Car
- Ali bin Ali Travel
- Sulaiman Travel
- Mannai Air Travel (charges QR 175 instead of standard QR 150)
- Deluxe Travels
- Go Mosafer
- Regency Holidays
- Safe Travels & Tourism
- Target Travels
Documents Required for International Driving License
To apply for an International Driving License in Qatar, you need to prepare:
- Your valid Qatar Driving License (original and photocopy)
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Copy of your Qatar ID (for residents)
- Copy of your passport
- Application fee:
- QR 150 at QATC (cash only)
- QR 175 at select travel agencies like Mannai Air Travel
How to Apply for International Driving License in Qatar?
Getting your International Driving License in Qatar involves these simple steps:
- Collect all required documents listed above
- Visit QATC, an authorized driving school, or travel agency
- Complete the application form with your personal details
- Submit your documents and photos
- Pay the application fee
- Wait for processing (typically takes about 30 minutes)
- Receive your printed International Driving Permit
Most locations issue the permit on the same day, except Al Khebra Driving School which provides next-day service.
What Your Qatar International Driving Permit Looks Like?
The Qatar IDP comes in a booklet format with specific features:
- Cover page clearly marked with “Qatar International Driving License”
- Inside pages containing your personal information including name, photo, and Qatar ID details
- Multiple language translations of your license information
- Validity dates clearly marked (one year from issue)
- Official stamps and authorization signatures
Validity and Usage Rules of International Driving Permit
Understanding how to properly use your International Driving Permit is essential:
- Valid for exactly one year from the issue date
- Must always be carried together with your valid Qatar Driving License
- Not a standalone document – both licenses must be presented if requested
- Accepted in over 150 countries (always verify specific country requirements)
- Often required for car rental insurance coverage
- Cannot be renewed while outside Qatar
Using Foreign Driving Licenses in Qatar
While Qatar residents must use their Qatar license within the country, visitors to Qatar can drive using their home license and International Driving Permit under these conditions:
- Visitors can drive for up to six months from entry date or until their IDP expires
- The IDP must be obtained in the visitor’s home country before arriving in Qatar
- Visitors can only drive vehicle types they are licensed for
- Usually limited to rental cars due to insurance requirements
Important: When you enter Qatar on a visit visa but then apply for residency, your home country license and IDP become invalid for driving in Qatar. You’ll need to apply for a Qatar driving license.
Benefits of Having an International Driving License
Getting an International Driving Permit offers several advantages for Qatar residents who travel abroad:
- Legal Driving Rights: Many countries legally require foreign drivers to have an IDP
- Clear Communication: Your license details are translated into multiple languages
- Easy Car Rentals: Makes the process of renting vehicles abroad much simpler
- Insurance Validity: Some car insurance policies require an IDP for coverage
- Avoid Fines: Prevent potential penalties for driving without proper documentation
- Smooth Travel: Reduces stress when dealing with foreign traffic officials
Countries That Accept Qatar’s International Driving License
Many countries accept Qatar-issued International Driving Permits. Always check specific requirements before traveling. Here’s a list of countries that generally accept Qatar IDPs:
Middle East
- Bahrain
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- UAE
Europe
- Austria
- Belgium
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Italy
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- United Kingdom
Asia
- India
- Japan
- South Korea
- Malaysia
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Philippines
Americas
- Canada
- United States
- Brazil
- Mexico
Africa
- Egypt
- Morocco
- South Africa
Always check with the embassy or consulate of your destination country for the most current information.
How to Renew Your International Driving License?
Since International Driving Permits are valid for one year only, renewal works this way:
- Wait until your current IDP is close to expiration
- Follow the same application process as for a new permit
- Make sure your Qatar Driving License is still valid
- Submit new photographs and updated documents if needed
- Pay the standard renewal fee (QR 150 or QR 175 depending on location)
Remember: You cannot renew your IDP while outside Qatar. If your permit expires during your travels, you must apply for a new one after returning to Qatar.
Important Driving Tips for International Travel
When using your International Driving Permit abroad, remember these practical tips:
- Research local driving laws before your trip
- Always carry both your IDP and Qatar Driving License
- Learn common road signs and traffic signals in your destination country
- Consider buying additional car insurance for complete protection
- Understand speed limits (km/h vs. mph)
- Practice driving on the left side if visiting countries like UK, Japan, or Australia
- Save emergency numbers and Qatar embassy contacts
- Plan your routes ahead of time
- Learn basic car-related words in the local language
- Check parking rules to avoid unexpected fines
Qatar Driving Rules Comparison
While you’ll use your International Driving Permit abroad, it helps to understand how Qatar’s driving rules compare to other countries:
Qatar Driving Basics
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Speed limits: 60-100 km/h on city roads, 100-120 km/h on highways
- Zero tolerance for alcohol when driving
- Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited
- Seatbelts mandatory for all passengers
Common Differences Abroad
- Left-side driving in UK, Japan, Australia, and many other countries
- Different speed limits (often lower in Europe, higher in parts of US)
- Varied rules on mobile phone usage
- Different road sign systems and colors
- Unique right-of-way rules at intersections
International Driving Permit Restrictions
Be aware of these important limitations when using your International Driving Permit:
- Not a Standalone Document: Your IDP is invalid without your original Qatar Driving License
- One-Year Validity: Cannot be extended beyond one year from issue date
- Vehicle Category Limits: You can only drive vehicle types listed on your Qatar license
- Country-Specific Rules: Some countries have additional requirements beyond an IDP
- No Commercial Usage: Generally not valid for commercial transportation services
- Insurance Requirements: Local insurance policies may have specific IDP conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for an International Driving License with a learner’s permit?
A: No, you must have a full Qatar Driving License to be eligible for an International Driving Permit.
Q: How quickly can I get my International Driving License in Qatar?
A: The process usually takes about 30 minutes at QATC or most authorized agencies, allowing for same-day issuance. Al Khebra Driving School issues permits the next day.
Q: Can I drive in Qatar with my International Driving License?
A: No, Qatar residents cannot use an International Driving Permit within Qatar. It’s only valid for driving in other countries.
Q: Do all countries require an International Driving License?
A: Not all countries require an IDP. Some accept foreign licenses directly, while others strictly require an IDP. Always check your destination country’s specific requirements.
Q: Can I apply for an International Driving License online?
A: Currently, there is no official online application process for International Driving Permits in Qatar. You must apply in person at one of the authorized locations.
Q: What should I do if I lose my International Driving License while traveling?
A: Contact the nearest Qatar embassy or consulate for guidance. You’ll likely need to apply for a replacement upon returning to Qatar.
Q: Can I use my International Driving License for work purposes abroad?
A: Generally, IDPs are for personal use. Commercial driving usually requires specific permits for each country. Check with local authorities about commercial driving requirements.
Q: Will my car insurance from Qatar cover me when driving abroad?
A: Usually not. You’ll need to purchase local insurance or international coverage specific to your destination. Your International Driving Permit helps you obtain this insurance.
Q: Can family members use my International Driving License?
A: No. The International Driving Permit is personal and tied to your specific Qatar Driving License. Each driver needs their own IDP.
Q: Do I need to carry my passport while driving abroad?
A: Yes, it’s recommended to carry your passport, Qatar Driving License, and International Driving Permit whenever driving abroad.
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.