Imagine driving on the roads of Qatar without any stress of inspecting your vehicle- Fahes got you covered. Whether you are new in inspection or going to brush up on the latest changes, the essential understanding in Fahes inspection is necessary to keep your car and the schedule on track. Registered vehicles in Qatar need to get annual inspection done at the authorized centres.
Every private vehicle whether it’s heavy or light needs to get the inspection report annually after its first 3 years. You can only get your registration card ( istimara ) if you have passed your vehicle inspection.
(Check related article on how to get istimara renewal in Qatar )
Before going into the process of understanding the process of Fahes inspection in Qatar, let’s get the basic information first ;
What is Fahes in Qatar?
Fahes is an Arabic word which is translated as ‘inspection’ .Fahes, operated by Woqod, is an inspection centre all across the country which ensures that all the vehicles driving on the roads of Qatar are safe, road worthy and complies to the rules and regulation of road safety. The purpose of Fahes inspection of vehicles is to lessen the ratio of traffic accidents and injuries and to ensure the safety of the general public moving on the roads of Qatar.
Therefore the government of Qatar has integrated the system of Fahes to the vehicle registration process, as it is mandatory to get the Fahes inspection report before applying for the vehicle registration card renewal ( istimara). Their technical process of inspection follows the guidelines provided by the traffic department of the ministry of interior ( MOI) and general committee of Standardization and Metrology (GCSM).
The Purpose of Fahes Inspections
- Road safety assurance
- Reduces accidents related to vehicles
- Environmental pollution safety
- Checking Vehicle’s compliance with Qatar rules and regulations.
- Maintenance of vehicle’s quality
Legal and Policy Framework Behind Fahes Inspections
- Fahes inspections are mandated under Qatar Traffic Law No. 19 of 2007, which emphasizes annual roadworthiness checks for all vehicles.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Driving without a valid Fahes report can result in fines up to QR 300 and temporary confiscation of the vehicle.
Types of Fahes Inspections
There are different types of fahes inspections. Some of them are listed below;
- Periodic inspection
- Registration renewal inspection
- Transfer of ownership inspection
- Export certificate inspection
- Accident inspection
- Modification approval inspection
- Heavy vehicle inspection
- Class car inspection
When To Do Fahes Inspection?
For private passenger cars, inspections aren’t required during the first three years. However, once the car reaches three years of age, an annual inspection becomes mandatory before renewing its registration.
| Vehicle Type | Inspection Frequency |
|---|---|
| Private Passenger Cars | Annually, starting three years after registration. |
| Private Transport (< 3000kg, Individual Owner) | Annually, starting three years after registration. |
| Private Transport (< 3000kg, Company Owned) | Annually, from the first registration. |
| Private Transport/Trailers (> 3000kg) | Annually, from the first registration. |
| Taxis, Rental Cars, and Motorcycles | Annually, from the first registration. |
Vehicle Modifications and Their Impact on Inspections
Unauthorized modifications often lead to inspection failures:
- Examples of Unauthorized Changes: Extra dark tints, oversized tires, and altered exhaust systems.
- Approval Process: Submit modification details to the Traffic Department for legal clearance before inspection.
Inspection Technology & Tools Used at Centers
Fahes centers are equipped with advanced inspection technology to ensure thorough and efficient evaluations:
- Emission Testing Equipment: Specialized sensors to measure carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in vehicle exhaust.
- Brake Test Systems: Roller brake testers that analyze braking efficiency and balance between front and rear axles.
- Suspension Testing Devices: Machines that evaluate the strength and balance of the suspension system to ensure stability on the road.
- Automated Diagnostic Tools: Devices for quick and accurate checks of the vehicle’s electrical system, including battery health and circuit functionality.
Appointments are required at three stations:
There is an online booking system through Woqod mobile app to get your inspection appointment for the following centres in Qatar;
- Mesaimeer
- Wadi al Banat
- Al Wakra
- Al Mazrouah
The booking system ensures that the customers can get their inspection done without any long queues of traffic jams. All these centres serve on the basis of first-come first serve.
Note : There are other centres also where you do not need to get an online appointment.
Documents Required for vehicle Inspection
You will need only two documents mentioned below:
- Vehicle registration card ( istimara)
- debit/ credit card for payment
- Authorization letter ( if owner is not present)
- Previous inspection report ( if applicable)
Fahes Vehicles Inspection Process
You can choose any of the above mentioned vehicle inspection centre to get the services.
Step 1 :Payment of fee and vehicle registration
Once you enter the inspection area, you will be guided to the registration booth where you will have to hand over your registration card( istimara) and credit or debit card for the fee payment. Collect the fee receipt and inspector copy from the booth. They may ask for your phone number to send SMS of your inspection report.
IMPORTANT: CASH IS NOT ACCEPTED. MAKE SURE TO BRING YOUR CREDIT/ DEBIT CARD WITH YOU.
Step 2 : Queue up for inspection
Now you are in the lane, drive slowly and carefully and stop at the first inspection stage and move when the staff signals you to move forward.
Step 3: follow the directions
Now you are in the middle of the test, follow the directions of the service staff.
First of all, the staff will ask you to apply brakes, switch on the lights and tun on the indicators etc. during the time, they will continue to inspect the outer body of your car like the doors, tyres, horn, wipers etc.
You will be directed to the next stage afterwards. Don’t forget to drive slowly.
In the second stage, the staff will do the technical inspection and check the internal parts. You may be asked to come out of your vehicle. The step may take less than 10 minutes to complete and they will ask you to drive away slowly.
Step 4:wait for the SMS of inspection report
Once you have completed your process and are out of lane, you can park outside and wait for the results.
After a few minutes, you will receive the SMS with the link to your vehicle’s inspection result.
If your result is PASS, you can apply for insurance renewal or vehicle’s registration card (istimara) renewal on the same day. Most of the traffic departments are in the premises of the inspection centres .You can go there for the istimara and insurance purpose.
Remember that you can also do your Istimara renewal process at any traffic department centre or online through Metrash2 app as sometimes traffic centres close before the inspection centres.
And insurance service at Fahes is usually provided by Qatar insurance company. If you want to get your insurance done through any other company of your choice you can do the process online.
Detailed Technical Breakdown of Inspection Stages
The inspection stages are divided into specific technical checks:
- Stage 1: Exterior Inspection
- Lights: Functionality of headlights, tail lights, and indicators.
- Tires: Depth of treads, alignment, and condition of sidewalls.
- Body: Inspection for rust, dents, and structural integrity.
- Stage 2: Functional Tests
- Brakes: Analysis of braking power and efficiency.
- Suspension: Evaluation of shock absorbers and spring integrity.
- Emissions: Measuring exhaust pollutants using state-of-the-art analyzers.
- Stage 3: Interior and Safety Checks
- Seatbelt operation, airbag functionality, and child safety lock systems.
Fahes Fees
| Vehicle type | fee |
|---|---|
| Private passenger car | QR 150 |
| Light vehicle ( taxi, private & public transport less than 3000kg) | QR 160 |
| Motor cylce | QR 100 |
| Heavy vehicle ( private or public transport More than 3000 kg) | QR 250 |
| Trailer, semi trailer, heavy vehicle ( for and not for road use) | QR 300 |
How To Check Fahes Report Online
You can check the results of your vehicle’s inspection report directly through SMS received just after the inspection or through the official website in case you missed SMS.
Step 1: GO to Fahes official website
( Here is the link to the official website)
Step 2: press on ‘online report search”
The button for this is located on the top menu
Step 3: enter your ‘plate number’ choose your plate type and enter your QID number.
Step 4: type the captcha code and click on the ‘search’ button.
Here you will see the complete inspection report with all the details and the report will be visible for next one year/ until the next inspection.
Decoding the Fahes Inspection Report
The following details are given on the typical Fahes report:
Vehicle information
Make and model
Year of manufacture
Vehicle identification number (VIN)
License plate number
Odometer reading
Inspection details
Date of inspection
Location of centre of inspection
Technician ID
Inspection result
Status of result ( pass or fail )
Detailed result of inspection in each category
Recommendations from the technicians
Result of Emission test
CO, HC & CO2 Level
Comparison with acceptable limits
Results of brake efficiency
Front & rear brake efficiency test
Overall brake evaluation
Suspension & alignment results
Measurement of Wheel alignment
Safety features evaluation
Lighting & electrical system
Functionality of head, tail and indicator lights.
Status of electrical components of vehicle
Tire and Wheel condition
Wheel alignment and condition
Tread depth
Body & exterior check
Presence of any rust or damage
Overall body condition
Safety features evaluation
Seatbelt availability
Airbag system and functionality
Child safety lock ( if applicable )
Recommendation for future
Preventive measures for passed vehicles
Repair requires to pass the test ( for failed vehicles)
Interpretation of inspection results:
The report will give one of these three outcomes:
Pass
Pass means your vehicle is all fit to go on the road & meets all the requirements and conditions
Conditional Pass
This status means your vehicle has minor issues which need to be addressed within 30 days of your inspection . You have to rectify those issues in 30 days and during this time you can drive your vehicle on the road but you must do your re-inspection within a given time frame.
Fail
Failure means your vehicle has major issues which need to be recited and repaired before the re-inspection. Before that you cannot run your vehicle on the road.
Common Myths and Misconceptions About vehicle Inspections
- Myth 1: New cars don’t need inspection.
- Fact: All vehicles older than 3 years require annual inspections.
- Myth 2: Cash payments are accepted at Fahes.
- Fact: Only debit or credit card payments are allowed.
What To Do If Vehicle Fails Inspection
If your vehicle fails the inspection test, you will have to rectify the problem which is described in the inspection report in detail.you can go to the station supervisor incase of any query.
- You should review the inspection report thoroughly and pay attention to every minor detail. Note any recommendation given by technicians.
- You can get help from any professional mechanic incase of any technical fault but keep in mind that you have to get the paper for that from the traffic department. Any garage cannot help you without official paper.
This is very important to correct the faults whether it’s big or small. You will be going again for the re-inspection of the vehicle after checking its faults completely and you will get the new report with the ‘PASS’ result. Vehicle registration can only be done if your vehicle has passed the inspection test.
Cost for Re-inspection
The first re-inspection is free of cost but if you fail the re-inspection test you will pay the inspection fee.inspections will alternate between being paid and free as long as they are done within the same 30-day period.
Fahes Inspection Report Validity
The inspection report valids for 30 Days. you can apply for registration renewals within the 30 days of your passed inspection report.
If your vehicle does not pass within the 30 days of main inspection all the previous reports will go in trash and you have to get your vehicle checked again from the scratch and get a new report again, checking every part again.
Common Reasons for Fahes Inspection Failure
- Brakes issue:
Faulty or worn-out brakes
- Tire problems:
Faulty, worn-out or old tires, does not meet road safety standards
- Faulty lights:
Faulty or broken lights including headlights, tail lights or indicators.
Oil leakage:
Engine oil leakage, power steering leakage,transmission fluid leakage
Unauthorized modifications:
Extra dark Tinted glass, unauthorized vehicle modification
Body damage:
Dents, rusts or an other body damage
Steering issue:
Misalignment of steering or any other problem
Failure of Safety equipment:
Problem in seatbelt,windshield, airbag, defected vipers
Impact of Weather Conditions on Vehicle Inspections
- Qatar’s extreme heat accelerates tire wear and causes fluid degradation.
- Sand can clog air filters and damage vehicle exteriors, increasing the chances of inspection failure.
How To Book Fahes Appointment Online
You can book your appointment online through Woqod App.
Here are the steps;
Step 1: Download the Woqod App
Fahes does not have any separate app. You have to install ‘Woqos App’ from play store or app store.
Step 2: click on Fahes
Step 3: hit on ‘book vehicle inspection’
Step 4: Enter your personal details
Select customer type , Enter your QID number, plate number, plate type, email and mobile number.
Step 5: station selection and booking of time and date
You can choose an inspection station according to your own choice.
Step 6: wait for the confirmation message
Now you will receive the message that your appointment is confirmed.
You can go to the station as per the appointment date and time.
Renewal Reminder and Digital Notifications
- Metrash2 App: Sends reminders for upcoming inspections and registration renewals.
- Digital Alerts: SMS notifications keep vehicle owners informed about inspection results and deadlines.
Fahes for Motorcycle:
Fahes inspection for motorcycles should be done every year after registering it. The fee for motorcycle inspection is QR 100 per inspection.
Other Services at Fahes Stations:
The following other services are also offered at fahes Stations:
Static weighing scale
- VIN stamping and VIN marking
- Tanker capacity certificate
- Water tanker inspection
- External inspection of heavy vehicles
Fahes Stations Timing
| Branch | Working Days | Working hours | Gate closes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Al Mazrouah | SAT – THUR | 06:00AM – 05:45PM | 05:45PM |
| Mesaimeer ( only through appointment) | SUN – THUR | 06:00AM – 08:30PM | 08:30PM |
| Wadi Al banat ( only through appointment) | SUN – THUR | 06:00AM – 08:30PM | 08:30PM |
| Al wakra ( only through Appointment) | SUN – THUR | 06:00AM – 05:45PM | 05:45PM |
| Al wukair | SUN – THUR | 06:00AM – 05:45PM | 05:45PM |
| Al Shahaniya | SUN – THUR | 06:00AM – 05:45PM | 05:45PM |
| Industrial Area | SUN – THUR | 06:00AM – 05:30PM | 05:30PM |
| Madinat Al Shamal | WEN – THUR | 07:00AM – 01:45PM | 01:45PM |
| Al Egda | SUN – THUR | 06:00AM – 05:45PM | 05:45PM |
Choosing the Right Inspection Center:
Please keep the following factors in mind while choosing inspection centre
Location:
Please select the nearest location to save time and avoid traffic on roads. Avoid peak hours.
Slot availability and less waiting time:
Some locations have less waiting time and more slots available. You should check the website for real time availability.
Offered services;
Always check the website for the centre details whether it provides services for your vehicle type or not. Some of the centres provide extra services which you can avail if you have prior knowledge.
Facilities availability
Always check multiple centres to check facilities provided like cafeterias and waiting areas.
Always consider comfort while choosing an inspection centre.
Best time for inspection
The best time to avoid the long queues and rush for vehicle inspection is between 12pm to 2 pm during mid-week and middle of the month. Customers should try to avoid the first and last week of the month to get the best service.
Examples of Inspection Outcomes
Success case: a motorcyclist passed the inspection with a three years old vehicle after routine checkup within a few minutes.
Failure case : A commercial vehicle failed the inspection due to brake issue but later passed the free re-inspection within 30 days of period ( says, peninsula newspaper)
Importance of Regular Maintenance
Regular importance is very essential not only for the Fahes inspection test but to ensure the road safety and improving fuel facilities and avoid accidents and mishaps on the roads.
Let’s discuss some important tips for regular maintenance:
Adhere to maintain schedule
Always follow your vehicle’s schedule recommended by your mechanic
Keep your vehicle up to date in terms of its maintenance
Address issues promptly:
If you find any unusual sounds or problem in the vehicle dont ignore it as the little ignorance can escalate the problem if not attended on time.
Always give quality maintenance
Do not harm your vehicle by using low quality oil as it will harm your engine in a long term.
Use good quality parts to avoid any problem. I-e using old tires can cause accidents.
Keep record of your maintenance receipts
Always keep records of your workshop receipts. The documents will be valuable for resale purposes.
Keep an eye on vehicle
Check tire pressure and condition monthly
Monitor fluid levels and inspect light.
Keep your vehicles clean:
Always keep your vehicle neat and clean to avoid rust and damage. The vehicle exterior look will give a better impact during your inspection test.
Environmental Compliance and Emission Standards in Qatar
Fahes inspection aligns with Qatar’s strict environmental standards:
- Acceptable Levels: CO levels under 0.5%, HC under 220 ppm, and zero visible smoke.
- Impact of Failing Emissions: Vehicles emitting above these limits must undergo repairs and retesting, ensuring reduced air pollution.
Data Analytics from Fahes Reports
- Fahes collects aggregate data on vehicle conditions to identify trends such as common faults and high-risk areas.
- Insights are shared with policymakers to improve road safety measures.
Sustainability Measures Adopted by Fahes
- Recycling Initiatives: Fahes recycles oil and ensures proper disposal of other hazardous materials.
- Paperless Operations: Digital reporting and online appointment systems reduce paper waste.
FAQs
What does Fahes check?
Fahes checks various aspects of vehicle safety and compliance, including:
Making sure the brakes work correctly.
Lights: Checking that the rear lights, headlights, and indicators are operating properly.
Emissions: Verifying that exhaust levels adhere to environmental regulations.
Tires: Evaluating tread depth and general health.
Body Condition: Checking for alterations or structural damage.
Suspension: Guaranteeing performance and stability.
These inspections guarantee that cars meet Qatar’s safety standards and are roadworthy.
How to make an appointment in Fahes?
You can book your appointment online through Woqod App.
What is the grace period for a Fahes inspection?
The grace period in Qatar for finishing the Fahes vehicle inspection is thirty days after the date of the registration renewal.
