How to Get Your Qatar Driving License? Step-by-Step Guide 

Many expats and residents waste weeks and thousands of riyals on Qatar’s driving license process due to confusing requirements and preparation mistakes. The process often feels overwhelming for newcomers and residents alike. In 2025, Qatar has streamlined its licensing system, but many people waste time and money by missing key requirements or steps.

Recent Qatar Driving License Updates

The Qatar Ministry of Interior and General Directorate of Traffic regularly update their policies to improve efficiency. Here are the latest changes as of 2025:

March 2025 Update: During Ramadan 2025, all Drivers’ Licensing Sections at driving schools will operate from 6:00 am to 11:00 am, Sunday through Thursday.

January 2025 Update: The Traffic Department has implemented a new digital verification system for all license applications, reducing processing time by 40%.

October 2024 Update: The Traffic Department has expanded its online appointment system to all driving schools, allowing applicants to book training sessions and tests through the Metrash app.

July 2024 Update: Expatriates entering Qatar to work as drivers can now complete eye tests at Qatar Visa Centers abroad. These centers connect directly to the General Directorate of Traffic’s licensing system, eliminating the need for retesting upon arrival in Qatar.

Eligibility Requirements for Qatar Driving License

Before applying for the Qatar driving license, verify your eligibility based on these key criteria:

Age Requirements

• Light vehicles and motorcycles: Minimum 18 years old
• Heavy vehicles (trucks, buses, forklifts): Minimum 21 years old

Residency Status

• Valid Qatar ID (QID) or Residence Permit
• Visa and original passport (if QID not yet issued)

Profession Restrictions

Certain professions are ineligible for driving licenses in Qatar. This restriction aims to reduce traffic congestion. Common ineligible professions include:

• Laborers
• Cleaners
• Security guards
• Some service workers

Always verify your profession eligibility with a driving school or the Traffic Department before starting the application process. The profession listed on your QID must not be on the restricted list.

What are Different Types of Driving Licenses in Qatar?

Qatar issues several types of driving licenses based on your needs:

Standard Light Vehicle License

• For cars and small vehicles under 3.5 tons
• Most common license type for residents
• Valid for 5 years for expatriates and 10 years for Qatari citizens

Motorcycle License

• Specific to two-wheeled motorized vehicles
• Requires separate training and testing
• Age requirement: 18 years minimum

Heavy Vehicle License

• For trucks, buses, and heavy machinery
• Age requirement: 21 years minimum
• Often requires additional medical testing

Temporary Driving Permit

• Valid for up to 3 months
• Available for visitors and short-term residents
• Limited to rental vehicles only

Understanding which license type you need will help streamline your application process.

How to Get Your Qatar Driving License? Step-by-Step Procedure

The Qatar driving license procedure involves several sequential steps. Follow this comprehensive guide to avoid delays:

Step 1: Select Your Driving School

Qatar has several government-approved driving schools. All follow a standardized curriculum from the Ministry of Interior’s General Directorate of Traffic. Popular options include:

• Al Khebra Driving School
• Gulf Driving School
• Dallah Driving Academy
• Qatar Driving School
• Karwa Driving School

Research each school’s location, fees, and availability before making your choice. Some schools offer premium packages with faster processing times and additional services.

Step 2: Apply For No Objection Certificate (NOC)

The NOC process has moved online. Your sponsor must approve your application through:

For Company Sponsorship

1. Sponsor logs into company Metrash application
2. Selects “Traffic” → “License Service” → “License NOC”
3. Enters your visa or QID number
4. Selects “New Issue”
5. Chooses required license category
6. Provides email and confirms details

For Personal Sponsorship

1. Sponsor logs into personal Metrash application
2. Follows the same steps as company sponsorship

For Qatari Citizens:

• Qatari males: NOC not required
• Qatari females: Guardian must provide NOC through Metrash

Companies with smart card access can also complete this process through the MOI website.

Step 3: Complete Eye Test

An eye test is mandatory for all applicants. Options include:

• At your chosen driving school (QR 25-50)
• From an approved optometrist or ophthalmologist
• At Qatar Visa Centers abroad (for incoming expatriate drivers)

The test checks for vision issues like myopia, hyperopia, and other conditions that might require corrective lenses while driving.

Step 4: Determine Course Duration

Your previous driving experience may qualify you for a shorter training course:

Full Course (40 practical classes)

• First-time drivers
• Holders of licenses from non-qualifying countries

Half Course (20 practical classes)

• Holders of qualifying foreign licenses
• Requires Traffic Department approval

The driving school will assess your eligibility and recommend the appropriate course.

Step 5: Submit Required Documents

Bring all necessary documents to your chosen driving school:

• Qatar ID (original and copy)
• NOC confirmation from Metrash
• Four passport-sized color photos
• Eye test certificate
• Original valid foreign license (if applicable)

After document verification and fee payment, the driving school will create your digital profile and provide learning materials.

Step 6: Complete Theory Training

Theory training covers:

• Qatar traffic laws and regulations
• Traffic signs and signals
• Safe driving practices
• Vehicle maintenance basics
• Driving ethics

Most schools offer theory classes for five days in multiple languages. Some provide mobile apps for self-paced learning.

Step 7: Pass Theory Test

After completing theory training, you’ll take a computer-based test consisting of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass:

• Answer at least 37 questions correctly (92.5% accuracy)
• Complete the test within the allotted time
• Tests are available in 18+ languages

You must pass this test before advancing to practical training.

Step 8: Complete Practical Training

Practical training consists of:

• One-on-one driving sessions with an instructor
• Practice on actual roads with real traffic conditions
• Parking techniques, including perpendicular (“L”) and parallel (“P”) parking
• Vehicle control and maneuvering exercises
• Defensive driving techniques

Most schools offer male and female instructors based on your preference (female instructors may have higher fees).

Step 9: Pass Road Test

The road test evaluates your ability to:

• Drive safely in traffic
• Follow traffic laws and signals
• Handle different road conditions
• Make proper turns and lane changes
• Maintain appropriate speed
• Use mirrors and signals correctly

A Traffic Police Officer conducts this test with multiple students taking turns driving the same vehicle.

Step 10: Pass Parking Test

The final test evaluates your parking skills:

• “L” test: Perpendicular parking
• “P” test: Parallel parking

Both tests must be completed successfully on the same day. The results are provided immediately through a computerized system.

After passing all tests, your Qatar driving license will be issued.

Required Documents for Qatar Driving License

Prepare these documents before starting the license application process:

For All Applicants

• Valid Qatar ID (QID) (original and copy)
• NOC through Metrash
• Four passport-sized color photos (wear glasses in photos if you need them for driving)
• Eye test certificate

For Foreign License Holders

• All documents listed above
• Original valid foreign driving license
• Official translation of license (if not in Arabic or English)

For Temporary Permit Applicants

• Passport (original and copy)
• Valid visa
• Foreign driving license
• Four passport-sized photos

Having all documents properly prepared will significantly speed up your application process.

Qatar Driving Course Structure and Training

The Qatar driving course is structured to build both theoretical knowledge and practical skills:

Theory Component

• Traffic laws and regulations
• Road signs and signals
• Driving ethics and safety
• Basic vehicle mechanics
• Hazard perception
• Emergency procedures

Simulator Training

• Vehicle control fundamentals
• Steering balance
• Basic maneuvering
• Reaction time improvement
• Traffic scenario simulations

Practical Road Training

• Vehicle controls and operation
• Starting and stopping
• Lane changing and merging
• Turning techniques
• Speed control
• Defensive driving
• Night driving (where applicable)

Parking Training

• Perpendicular parking (“L” test)
• Parallel parking (“P” test)
• Reverse parking
• Angle parking

A full course includes 40 practical sessions, while a half course includes 20 sessions. Each session typically lasts 30-45 minutes.

Qatar Driving Test Process

The Qatar driving test consists of three main components, each requiring a passing grade:

Theory Test

• 40 multiple-choice questions
• Minimum 37 correct answers (92.5% accuracy)
• Available in 18+ languages
• Computerized testing system with immediate results
• Fee: Included in course package

Road Test

• Conducted by Traffic Police Officer
• 3-4 students per vehicle, taking turns
• Tests basic and advanced driving skills
• Instant pass/fail notification
• Two attempts permitted before requiring additional training
• Fee: Included in course package

Parking Test

• Computerized evaluation system
• Must complete both “L” and “P” parking tests
• Unlimited attempts (QR 50 fee for each retake after initial failure)
• Tests precision, control, and spatial awareness

Understanding the test structure helps you prepare effectively and reduces test anxiety.

How to Exchange a Foreign Driving License for a Qatari License?

If you hold a valid driving license from certain countries, you may qualify for direct exchange without taking a driving course:

Eligible Countries for Direct Exchange

All GCC countries plus: Monaco, Germany, Luxembourg, Portugal, France, USA, Sweden, Australia, Canada, Norway, Belgium, New Zealand, Malaysia, Andorra, Brunei, Japan, Liechtenstein, Netherlands, Austria, Finland, Hong Kong, Denmark, Greece, Singapore, Spain, Ireland, Vatican City, San Marino, Switzerland, Iceland, South Korea, Italy, and the UK.

Exchange Process

1. Visit the Traffic Department at Madinat Khalifa
2. Submit required documents:
   • Original and copy of foreign license
   • Qatar ID (original and copy)
   • Eye test certificate
   • Four passport-sized photos
3. Pay the license fee (QR 250 for 5-year validity)
4. Collect your new Qatar license (typically ready the next business day)

This process saves significant time and money compared to taking a full driving course.

Qatar Temporary Driving Permits

For short-term visitors or new arrivals, Qatar offers temporary driving permits:

Eligibility

• Valid foreign driving license
• Legal visa status
• Minimum age of 18

Application Process

1. Visit the Traffic Department
2. Submit your passport, visa, and foreign license
3. Provide three passport-sized photos
4. Pay the temporary permit fee
5. Collect your permit (usually same-day service)

Limitations

• Valid for up to 3 months only
• Limited to rental vehicles
• Not valid for privately-owned vehicles due to insurance restrictions
• Cannot be extended beyond the 3-month period

After the temporary permit expires, you must either obtain a regular Qatar license or leave the country.

International Driving License

There are two scenarios regarding international driving licenses in Qatar:

Using an International License in Qatar

• Valid for up to 6 months after arrival
• Must be accompanied by your original national license
• Only recognized if issued by countries with diplomatic relations with Qatar

Obtaining an International License in Qatar

Qatar residents with valid Qatar driving licenses can apply for an international driving permit:

Required Documents

• Qatar ID
• Valid Qatar driving license
• Two passport-sized photos
• Fee: Approximately QR 150

Application Locations

• Qatar Automobile and Touring Club
• Selected driving schools
• Some travel agencies
• Major car rental services

This permit allows you to drive legally in most countries worldwide without additional testing.

Special Cases

Licenses for Individuals with Disabilities

Qatar provides modified licenses for drivers with disabilities:

1. Obtain a referral letter from the Traffic Department
2. Complete assessment at the Medical Services Department
3. Receive a license with specific conditions based on your medical report
4. Vehicle will be labeled with a special needs designation

The final decision depends on the medical evaluation determining fitness to drive.

GCC License Holders

Residents with valid licenses from other Gulf Cooperation Council countries:

• Eligible for direct road test without training
• Must contact a driving school to schedule the test
• Pay test fee (varies by school)
• Receive Qatar license upon passing

Commercial Driver Applicants

Those seeking commercial driving licenses face additional requirements:

• Minimum age: 21 years
• Medical fitness certificate
• Possible company sponsorship letter
• Extended testing for specific vehicle categories
• Periodic renewal with medical re-evaluation

Qatar Driving Course Fees and Timelines

Understanding the costs and time requirements helps you plan your license application:

Full Course

• Average cost: QR 3,500-4,000
• Duration: 90-110 days
• Includes 40 practical sessions

Half Course

• Average cost: QR 3,000
• Duration: 65-90 days
• Includes 20 practical sessions

Additional Fees

• License issuance: QR 250 (5-year validity)
• Test retake fees: QR 50 per attempt (after initial failure)
• Premium services (female instructor, priority scheduling): QR 200-500

Timeline Breakdown

• Document processing: 1-2 weeks
• Theory training and testing: 1-2 weeks
• Waiting period for practical training: 2-4 weeks
• Practical training: 4-8 weeks
• Final testing: 1-2 weeks

Actual timelines may vary based on the driving school’s capacity and seasonal demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I practice driving with friends or family before getting a license?

No. Qatar law only permits practice in authorized vehicles owned by driving schools under instructor supervision.

Q: Can I choose between automatic and manual transmission?

Yes. However, if you pass your test in an automatic vehicle, your license will restrict you to automatic vehicles only. Passing in a manual vehicle allows you to drive both types.

Q: What happens if I fail my road test twice?

You’ll need to enroll in additional training sessions before attempting the test again. Some schools offer “unlimited training” packages for students who need extra practice.

Q: Can I apply for a motorcycle license if I already have a car license?

Yes, but you’ll need to complete separate training and testing for the motorcycle category.

Q: How long does it take to receive my license after passing all tests?

For digital licenses through Metrash, access is immediate. Physical cards are typically ready within 1-3 business days and can be collected from your driving school or delivered via QPost.

Q: Can tourists drive in Qatar?

Tourists can drive for up to 7 days using their home country license. For longer stays, a temporary International Driving Permit or Qatar temporary permit is required.

Q: Is the driving test in Qatar difficult?

The Qatar driving test maintains high standards. The 92.5% passing requirement for the theory test and precise parking maneuvers make thorough preparation essential.

Q: Can my license be revoked for traffic violations?

Yes. Accumulating too many black points from traffic violations can result in license suspension or revocation. Serious violations may lead to immediate suspension.

Q: Do I need to retake the test when renewing my license?

No. License renewal requires only document submission and fee payment, without retesting. However, drivers over 60 may need a medical certificate.