If you’re living and working in Qatar and planning to hit the roads legally, getting a driving license is a crucial step. However, before you can begin your driving lessons or book your road test, you may be required to obtain a No Objection Certificate, commonly known as a NOC for driving license.
But what exactly is a NOC, and why is it so important?
A NOC is an official letter or digital approval that confirms your employer or sponsor has no objection to you applying for a driving license. It acts as a green light for the authorities, particularly if you belong to certain job categories or are under specific sponsorship rules. Without this approval, your driving license application could be delayed or even declined.
Whether you’re submitting your request through the Metrash2 app or the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website, understanding the NOC process is essential.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know in a clear and simple way, so you can move forward with confidence.
What is a NOC for Driving License in Qatar?
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) for a driving license in Qatar is an official authorization stating that your sponsor or employer has no objection to you obtaining a Qatari driving license. It is often required for expatriates, especially those under specific job titles or sponsorship categories, before they can proceed with their license application.
Who Issues the NOC?
- Employer or Sponsor: Most commonly issues the NOC on company letterhead for employees under their sponsorship.
- Ministry of Interior (MOI): In some cases, especially for online applications via the MOI portal or Metrash2, the approval is granted digitally through the system after sponsor consent.
You can download Sample NOC Letter from Sponsor here
Updates Regarding NOC for driving license in Qatar
🚨 Metrash2 Discontinued
As of March 1, 2025, Metrash2 has been officially replaced by the new Metrash app — featuring a modern design, faster access, biometric login, multi-device support, and instant notifications for smoother NOC processing.
✅ Sponsor-Only NOC Requests
Only sponsors or employers can submit NOC applications via the Metrash app or MOI e-Services portal using their smart card. Applications from employees themselves are not accepted.
Who Needs a NOC for Driving License?
Not everyone in Qatar is required to submit a No Objection Certificate when applying for a driving license. However, several categories of residents must obtain a NOC before proceeding with their application. These include:
1. Labor Category Professionals
Individuals working in labor-designated professions—such as construction workers, helpers, cleaners, and similar job roles—are generally required to get a NOC. These categories often fall under driving restrictions and need special permission to apply.
2. Expatriates Under Sponsorship
Foreign nationals sponsored by companies, private employers, or individuals must typically obtain a NOC from their sponsor. This is to confirm that the sponsor permits the individual to drive legally in Qatar.
3. Special Job Titles
Certain professions like office assistants, salesmen, or technicians may fall into a gray area. While not strictly labor-classified, they may still require a NOC depending on their company’s policies or MOI classification.
If your job title is not listed under the MOI’s exempt category, it’s best to consult your employer or check directly through the Metrash2 app to see if a NOC is required before applying.
Get NOC for Driving License from Employer
If your job title requires a NOC, and you’re under company sponsorship, you must request the certificate directly from your employer.
Request Procedure:
- Submit a Written Request to your HR or administration department, explaining your intention to apply for a driving license.
- Employer Prepares the NOC on the company’s official letterhead.
- Ensure Proper Formatting – The letter must include your full name, QID number, job title, and a clear statement that the employer has no objection to you obtaining a driving license.
- Signature and Stamp – The NOC must be signed by an authorized person and stamped with the company seal.
Get NOC for Driving License from Metrash App
In Qatar, if a NOC is required for your driving license application, only your sponsor or employer can submit the request through their Metrash mobile app. You, as the employee, cannot apply for it yourself through your own account.Follow these steps to apply for NOC
Install metrash app on your phone
If the app is not already installed on your phone, install the app from play store or app store.After installing the app, open it and login with your personal details such as QID and passport number. Read here step by step guide on how to register a metrash app.
Step2: Locate the traffic section
After login, go to the traffic section of Metrash. This section deals with traffic related services.
Step3:Click on “license service”
Once you are in the traffic section, tap on the “license service” icon.Here you will find a multiple license related services.
Step4: Select “license NOC”
From the multiple given services, choose “License NOC”.This is the service you are here to get.
Step5: Enter QID and choose the license category.
Start by entering your QID, then select the type of driving license for which you require the NOC.
Make sure that all the information provided is correct.
Step6:Review and submit your NOC Request
Before submitting your request, review all the information carefully to avoid any error.After that click on submit button to forward your request.
Step7: Confirmation of Request
Once you submit the request on Metrash, a confirmation message will appear to verify successful submission.
Get NOC for driving license from MOI portal
Step1:Go to the MOI official site
Go to the official MOI website
Step2: Visit E-service page
On MOI website, Go to the E-service page
Step3:Click on “traffic services”
On the E-service page, click on traffic services section
Step4: Tap on “driving license” option
Inside the traffic services option, click on the driving license section.
Step5:Choose driving license NOC
From multiple given services, Choose and click on “driving license NOC”.
Step 6: Enter All Required Information
Ensure that every section of the NOC request form is carefully completed. Double-check your entries for correctness to help prevent any potential processing issues or delays.
Step 7: Finalize and Send Your Application
After filling in the necessary details, take a moment to carefully verify everything you’ve entered. Once satisfied, go ahead and submit your NOC request.
After you submit the form, your sponsor will be notified when the NOC gains approval. It’s wise to monitor any alerts or messages regarding the progress of your application.
By carefully following these outlined steps, you’ll be able to obtain your No Objection Certificate (NOC) for a driving license swiftly and with ease through the Metrash platform.
Conclusion
Securing a No Objection Certificate is the first and most important step toward obtaining a driving license in Qatar, especially for those whose job category requires one. When submitted correctly by your sponsor through either the Metrash app or the Ministry of Interior website, the process is quick and manageable. To avoid delays, make sure all information is accurate, monitor the status of your request, and act within the 30-day validity period. With the right approach and timely action, getting your driving license can be a smooth and hassle-free experience.
