Facing a Qatar Istimara renewal deadline can cost you QAR 500+ in penalties if missed. In 2025, the Ministry of Interior (MOI) offers three streamlined methods to update your vehicle registration quickly—online, via app, or in-person—saving you time and preventing those dreaded fines.
What is Istimara?
Istimara is the official vehicle registration certificate in Qatar issued by the Ministry of Interior (MOI). This document legally permits your vehicle to be driven on Qatar’s roads and serves as proof of ownership. All vehicle owners must renew their Istimara before it expires to avoid penalties and ensure road safety.
The vehicle registration card contains crucial information about your vehicle, including:
- Registration number
- Vehicle make, model, and manufacturing year
- Owner’s name and Qatar ID number
- Expiration date
- Engine and chassis number
- Vehicle color
- Fuel type
- Gross weight
- Number of engine cylinders
Who Needs to Renew Istimara?
Anyone who owns a vehicle in Qatar must renew their Istimara regularly. This includes:
- Private vehicle owners
- Commercial vehicle owners
- Heavy equipment operators
Requirements for Istimara Renewal
Before starting the renewal process, make sure you meet these conditions:
- Technical inspection: Your vehicle must pass a technical inspection conducted by an authorized service center or the Traffic Department. New vehicles less than three years old are typically exempt from this requirement.
- Valid insurance: You must have active vehicle insurance from a recognized provider in Qatar.
- No outstanding fines: All traffic violations and penalties must be paid before renewal.
- Valid Qatar ID: Your Qatar ID must be current and not expired.
- Vehicle ownership: You must be the registered owner or have proper authorization to renew on behalf of the owner.
Istimara Renewal Fees in Qatar (2025)
The renewal fees vary based on vehicle type:
| Vehicle Type | Fee per Year (QAR) |
| Motorcycles | 100 |
| Light Vehicles | 100 |
| Private Passenger Car | 150 |
| Private Transport Vehicle (Bus) | 150 |
| Taxi Car | 200 |
| Construction, Agricultural, and Industrial Vehicles | 250 |
How to Renew Istimara in Qatar? (Three Methods)
1. Online Renewal Through MOI Website
The most convenient way to renew your Istimara is through the Ministry of Interior’s official website:
- Visit the MOI e-services portal
- Log in using your Qatar ID and password
- Select “Traffic Services”
- Click on “Renew Vehicle License”
- Enter your vehicle details when prompted
- Pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card
- Print the temporary Istimara, which remains valid for seven days
- The new physical vehicle registration card will be delivered to your registered address
2. Renewal Using Metrash App
The Metrash app provides a mobile-friendly way to renew your vehicle registration:
- Download and log into the Metrash app using your credentials
- Tap on the “Traffic” icon
- Select “Vehicle Services”
- Tap on “New Vehicle Registration”
- Fill out the required form with your vehicle details
- The system will automatically check if your vehicle has valid insurance and has passed the required inspection
- Pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card
- Choose your preferred delivery method for the physical card
Note: The Ministry of Interior launched a completely redesigned Metrash app in March 2025, replacing the older Metrash2 version. Make sure you download the latest version for seamless service.
3. In-Person Renewal at Traffic Department
If you prefer face-to-face service or need assistance, you can visit a Traffic Department office:
- Gather required documents:
- Your current Istimara
- Valid Qatar ID
- Vehicle registration copy
- Proof of insurance
- Visit the Traffic Department office: Go to the nearest location during working hours (Sunday to Thursday, 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM).
- Submit documents: Present your paperwork to the officer at the counter, who will verify everything.
- Vehicle inspection: If required, get your vehicle inspected at an authorized center. The officer will provide information on nearby locations.
- Payment: Pay the renewal fee using a debit or credit card.
- Collect your new Istimara: Receive your updated vehicle registration card and verify all information is correct.
Technical Inspection (Fahes) Requirements
Certain vehicles require a technical inspection before Istimara renewal:
- Private vehicles older than 3 years
- All commercial vehicles (required annually)
- Vehicles with significant modifications
The inspection centers operate from Sunday to Thursday, 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with some location variations. These centers include:
- Mazrooah
- Mesaimeer
- Wadi Al Banat
- Al Wakra
- Al Wukair
- Shahania
- Al Egda
- Industrial Area
- Al Shamal (Mobile Station)
How to Check Istimara Validity?
Want to check if your vehicle registration is still valid? Follow these steps:
- Visit the Ministry of Interior website
- Enter your vehicle’s plate number
- Complete the security verification by entering the displayed code
- Click “Inquire” to check validity
- The system will display your Istimara expiration date and any traffic violations
Penalties for Late Istimara Renewal
Failing to renew your Istimara on time results in these penalties:
- Less than 3 months late: QAR 500 fine
- More than 3 months late: QAR 1,000 fine
Starting from July 27, 2025, the MOI’s General Directorate of Traffic is implementing stricter measures for expired vehicle licenses. All drivers must renew within 90 days of expiration, or risk:
- License forfeiture
- Number plate confiscation
- Vehicle removal from the registry
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renewing Istimara
1. Waiting Until the Last Minute
Renew your vehicle registration at least one week before it expires to avoid system delays and last-minute complications.
2. Neglecting to Check for Outstanding Fines
Before starting the renewal process, check and pay any traffic violations through the MOI website or Metrash app.
3. Skipping Vehicle Inspection
If your vehicle requires technical inspection, complete this step first to avoid delays in the renewal process.
4. Missing Documents
Ensure you have all required documents ready, including your Qatar ID, proof of insurance, and current Istimara.
5. Outdated Contact Information
Make sure your address and phone number are current in the MOI system for proper delivery of your new card.
Insurance Requirements for Istimara Renewal
Having valid car insurance is mandatory for Istimara renewal in Qatar. Two main types are available:
- Third-Party Insurance: Covers damages to other vehicles or property but not your own vehicle.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Covers both your vehicle and third-party damages, providing full protection.
When renewing your insurance, you’ll need:
- Valid Qatar ID
- Vehicle registration card
- Existing policy number
- Vehicle details (plate and chassis numbers)
- Payment method
In 2025, average insurance premiums range between QAR 1,200 and QAR 3,000, depending on coverage type, vehicle model, and driver history.
Special Considerations for Different Vehicle Types
Private Vehicles
- Three-year exemption from technical inspection for new vehicles
- Annual renewal required after the initial exemption period
Commercial Vehicles
- Annual technical inspection mandatory regardless of vehicle age
- Higher renewal fees compared to private vehicles
- Additional permits may be required depending on commercial use
Heavy Equipment
- Specialized inspection requirements
- Higher fees for registration and renewal
- Additional documentation may be needed for industrial or construction equipment
Troubleshooting Common Istimara Renewal Issues
Online System Errors
- Clear your browser cache or try a different device
- Use the Metrash app instead of the website
- Check your internet connection
Failed Technical Inspection
- Address all identified issues promptly
- Schedule a re-inspection once repairs are complete
- Consider visiting an authorized service center for pre-inspection assessment
Expired Qatar ID
- Renew your QID before attempting Istimara renewal
- Qatar ID renewal can often be completed online through the MOI website
Outstanding Traffic Fines
- Check for unpaid fines through the MOI portal or Metrash app
- Pay all outstanding amounts before proceeding with renewal
Getting Help with Istimara Renewal
If you encounter difficulties during the renewal process, contact:
- MOI Helpline: 2342000
- Email: [email protected]
- Government Contact Center: 109 (inside Qatar) or +974-44069999
- Live Chat: Available on the Hukoomi website
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I drive with an expired Istimara?
A: No. Driving with an expired vehicle registration is illegal in Qatar and can result in fines and vehicle impoundment.
Q: How long does the online renewal process take?
A: The online process typically takes 10-15 minutes if all your documents are in order.
Q: Can I renew my Istimara before it expires?
A: Yes, you can renew up to 90 days before the expiration date.
Q: Is there a grace period for Istimara renewal?
A: Qatar offers a 30-day grace period after expiration, but it’s best to renew before your Istimara expires to avoid complications.
Q: Can someone else renew my Istimara for me?
A: Yes, but they must have proper authorization or power of attorney to do so.
Q: What should I do if I lose my Istimara card?
A: Apply for a replacement at the Traffic Department with your Qatar ID and other relevant documents.
Q: Can I renew my Istimara if I have unpaid traffic fines?
A: No, all outstanding fines must be cleared before 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.