To truly immerse yourself in any country, having a local driving license is key, unlocking the freedom to explore new roads and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. If you’re planning to settle in Qatar, securing a driving license is essential for independence and confidence.
In our detailed guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, from application to approval, ensuring you have all the information you need. Let’s begin your journey to obtaining a Qatar driving license!
Requirements for Qatar Driving License
| For Qatari nationals |
|---|
| Minimum age is 18 for light vehicle and 21 for heavy vehicle |
| Valid QID |
| 3 photographs |
| Enrol in authorized driving school |
| If you want to learn to drive in a private automobile, make a three-month deposit in advance. |
| For non- qatari Nationals |
|---|
| 18 years of age |
| ID card copy |
| Visa or passport copy if QID not issued |
| Sponsor letter |
| 3 photos |
For Diplomats and international officials
| Diplomatic card |
| 3 photos |
Age requirement
The minimum age requirement for motorcycles and light vehicles(LTV) like cars is 18 years.While minimum age requirement for heavy vehicles driving license like trucks, buses etc is 21 years.
Residency requirement
To get a driving license in Qatar, you must first have a valid residency permit (QID).A copy of the visa and the original passport are needed if QID is not issued.
Profession requirement
Certain professions are often qualified to receive a Qatar driving license; these conditions are intended to control the issuing of driving licenses according to the work of the applicant and the possible need for driving in their role.
Eligibility Based on Profession
Certain professions are prioritized for Qatar driving license, including:
| Engineers | Doctors and medical professionals |
| Teachers | Business owners |
| Technicians | Delivery drivers |
| Skilled laborers (e.g., electricians, plumbers) | Sales representatives |
Note: Administrative or low-income professions, such as cleaners, domestic helpers, and certain labor categories, may face restrictions or additional requirements.
Read our article to check the eligibility of professions for a driving license.
Is Your Current License Valid in Qatar?
Your current driving license may be valid in Qatar depending on your visa type and nationality. Tourists and short-term visitors can drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP) paired with a valid home country license. GCC citizens can use their licenses without conversion. However, residents and expatriates must obtain a Qatari driving license, with some nationalities eligible for direct conversion, while others require a driving test. Driving on a tourist license is only allowed for up to six months, and any change to a residency visa requires a local license. Always check the validity of your license and local rules to avoid penalties.
Qatar Driving License Procedure
- Choose Driving School
- Apply for NOC
- Eye Test
- Decide Course Duration
- Submit Course Duration
- Submit Documents & Pay the Fee
- Theory Lesson & Theory Test
- Practical Lessons
- Road & Parking Test
Starting the road to get a driving license in Qatar is a methodical procedure, but with the correct direction it becomes controllable. Here is a personal guide to assist you negotiate each step:
Step 1: The first is to check the eligibility criteria as discussed above such as age requirement, residency and professional criteria
Step 2: Choosing a Driving school
| Qatar driving school | Location |
|---|---|
| Al Khebra Driving | Abu Hamour |
| Dallah Driving Academy | Main Road Industrial Area |
| Karwa Driving School | Ibn Durham Street |
| Qatar Driving Institute | Al Khafus Street |
Doha is home to a large number of government-approved driving schools.These driving schools are controlled by the Ministry of Interior’s General Directorate of Traffic and follow a common curriculum.
Step 3: Application for NOC
Ask your sponsor for a NOC via the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or the Metrash2 mobile app. Qatari males are immune from this requirement, however Qatari females must obtain a NOC from their guardian.
NOC must be provided by the sponsor via Metrash2 for company sponsorship.
For individual sponsorship, the sponsor must use the Metrash2 application to provide the NOC.
| Applicant | NOC Requirement | Details |
| Qatari Nationals | Male | No NOC required |
| Qatari Nationals | Female | NOC required |
| Non-Qatari Nationals | All | NOC required |
How To obtain NOC for Driving license On Metrash
The Metrash2 mobile application makes it simple to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for a driver’s license in Qatar. Here’s how to accomplish it:
Set up and launch Metrash2:
Make sure your smartphone has the Metrash2 software installed.
Launch the application and enter your login information.
Open the ‘Traffic’ Section:
Click on the “Traffic” option in the main menu.
‘License Services’ are accessible:
Click on “Traffic” and select “License Services.”
Choose ‘License NOC’:
From the services list, select “License NOC.”
Enter the necessary information:
Enter the number for your Qatar ID (QID).
You can choose the kind of driver’s license you want to apply for.
Examine and send in: Verify the accuracy of the information you have entered twice.
Await Verification:
Following submission, Metrash2 will notify your sponsor to authorize the NOC request.
You’ll get a confirmation message after being accepted.
How To Issue Driving License NOC On MOI Website
If you have smart card than you are able to apply through moi website whether you are a company or an individual.The process is very easy and simple:
Go to the MOI official site
Navigate to the E service page
Now click on “traffic services” section
After that, click on “ driving license NOC” section
Fill out the required detail and then submit the form
The sponsor will get notification once approved.
Step 4: Eye Test For Qatar Driving License
Taking eye test is mandatory requirement for qatar driving license.It determines if you need corrective lenses when driving.
Authorized centers for eye tests
The eye examination must be performed at accredited optical centers or clinics designated by the Ministry of Interior (MOI).
Popular authorized centers include:
Al Jaber Optical
Qatar Optical and Al Emadi Hospital
Visit an authorized optical center.
Carry a valid Qatar ID (QID) and passport-sized pictures.
You may also require the MOI application reference number.
Complete the vision test.
An optometrist will assess your visual acuity and depth perception.
The test results are automatically linked to your MOI profile if the center is digitally integrated.
If not, you may be given a test report to submit manually.
Fee for Eye Tests
The fee for the eye test varies depending on the center, generally ranging between QAR 20 to QAR 50.
Step 5:Course Duration
The course duration for earning a qatar driving license usually varies on the kind of license (small vehicle, heavy vehicle, etc.) and your past driving experience.
If you hold a valid driving license from another country, you might qualify for a half course when applying for a driving license in Qatar. To take advantage of this, you’ll need to get approval from the Traffic Department. Simply submit your previous driver’s license for verification, and if approved, you can proceed with a shorter course tailored to your existing skills.
There are 40 practical sessions in the full course and 20 in the half course.
Gender-Specific Driving Instructors:
- Female applicants may opt for female instructors for practical lessons, which is available at select driving schools for an additional fee.
Step6: Submit The Required Documents
The next step is to submit all the required documents.
Documents required:
Your ID from Qatar
A few current passport-sized pictures are required; usually, two to four are needed.
A medical certificate: To verify that you are physically fit to drive, you must have a physical examination from an approved clinic. This is a common prerequisite.
Eye test report: It is required to have a vision examination from an authorized optical facility.
No Objection Certificate (NOC): If you work for a living, your employer may be required to give you a NOC indicating that they approve of your license application.
Residence permission: If you’re an expatriate, you may need a current work visa or residence permit.
Your previous driver’s license, if any You will be eligible for a reduced training course (half course) if you currently hold a driver’s license from another nation.
Certificate of completion for driving course: If you’re a novice, you must finish a driving course at an authorized institution.
Make sure your images depict you wearing glasses if you wear them while driving.
Theory lessons
In Qatar, taking theory courses is a crucial step in the driving license application procedure. Understanding traffic laws, safe driving techniques, and the rules of the road are the main topics of these lessons.
Three to four theoretical sessions, each lasting one to two hours, are usually needed. At your driving school, the lessons are taught in a classroom environment and are frequently done in groups. While online theory lessons are an option for some institutions, many prefer in-person meetings to make sure you thoroughly comprehend the content and have the opportunity to ask questions.
Theory Test
You will be required to take a theoretical test following the completion of the lessons. This written examination assesses your understanding of the content you have studied. To pass, you must thoroughly study the material.
To pass the theory test, you need to answer at least 37 out of 40 questions correctly. The test is available in multiple languages
Why Theory Lessons Matter:
These lessons are essential for becoming a responsible and safe driver, which is vital for both your safety and the safety of other road users. They are also a prerequisite for getting your driver’s license.
Tips for Theory Test Preparation:
- Practice using mock tests provided by driving schools.
- Utilize mobile apps or online resources for studying traffic signs and road rules.
Practical Lessons
Practical driving lessons are vital for acquiring real-world experience behind the wheel and preparation for the driving test. These are one-on-one driving lessons consisting of both male and female instructors. You can avail a female instructor if you are willing to pay an extra fee.
You will get the experience of driving on the main roads while sitting with the instructor.you will get all the techniques and skills of driving during these practical lessons.
One of the main things you will learn during lessons is the parking technique.
There are two main type of parking tests:
L & P
L refers to Perpendicular Parking while P refers to Parallel Parking
You have to master both of them during the lessons.
Road Test
After completing your practical lesson, you will be given the date of your road test. The road test will be executed in the driving school car with two or three people sitting with you while driving. To evaluate your performance,a traffic police officer will be sitting with you while driving.
Parking Test
Once you pass your road test, the next step is your parking test. Parking test consists of 2 tasks, L & P. You have to pass both tasks on the same day. These tasks are computer based and you can get the results instantly.
Hurrah!! Your driving license will be issued immediately after you pass you final test.
Driving Test modules in Qatar
There are following modules of driving test in Qatar:
- Theory Test
- Road Test
- Parking Test (L&P)
You have to pay a nominal fee and register for the test.
It is essential to pass all three modules. If you passed one module and failed the next one, your passed test will not be considered failed.you cannot proceed to the next module without passing the prior module.
If you fail the test,you can retake it within specified time without any extra fees.
How many driving tests can I take?
For driving tests, you are allowed number of attempts based on test type
Road test:
You are permitted two attempts to pass the road test
Subsequent attempts: If you cannot pass a test in given attempts, you may require additional training sessions before rescheduling the test.
Parking and signal Test:
There is no specified limit on the number of attempts for the parking test; applicants can retake it with an additional fee of QR 50 until they pass.
How To Check Driving Test Results in Qatar
After passing, the Metrash system will send you the results via SMS.
After obtaining the passing notice, you can use the Metrash app to get your driver’s license.
Click on “traffic,” then “license service,” and finally “issue driver’s license.” option.
Time Required To Complete Driving Course
The duration of the training varies according to the type.The entire course will take 90 to 110 days to complete, including theory and practical.
The duration is typically 65-90 days for a partial course.
This time may differ from driving school to driving school.
Qatar Driving License Course Fees
The average full course fee of different driving schools is around 3500 Qr to QR 4000.
The half course fee is around 3000 QR.
The above mentioned fee is for training.There are additional costs for license issuance
Qatar Driving License Fees
Below are the fees for issuing a Qatar Driving License and course fee. The course fee and test fee will be in
| Category | Fee (QAR) | Validity |
| Driving Course Fees | ||
| Light Vehicle Full Course | 3,350 (approx.) | – |
| Light Vehicle Half Course | 2,800 (approx.) | – |
| Medium Truck Full Course | 3,500 (approx.) | – |
| Trailer Full Course | 4,100 (approx.) | – |
| Driving License Issuance Fees | ||
| Light Vehicle License (Qatari) | 500 | 10 years |
| Light Vehicle License (Expatriate) | 250 | 5 years |
| Heavy Vehicle License (Qatari) | 600 | 10 years |
| Heavy Vehicle License (Expatriate) | 300 | 5 years |
| Motorcycle License (Qatari) | 300 | 10 years |
| Motorcycle License (Expatriate) | 150 | 5 years |
| Driver’s Learning License | 150 | 3 months |
| Taxi/Public Transport Vehicle Permit | 250 | 1 year |
| Additional Fees | ||
| Eye Test Fee | 30 | – |
Automatic and Manual Transmission Options
Driving schools offer both manual and automatic transmission vehicles for light vehicle training. Successfully passing the test with an automatic car allows you to legally drive only automatic vehicles. However, passing with a manual car qualifies you to drive both manual and automatic vehicles.
How To Exchange / Transfer A Foreign License
To exchange or transfer a foreign driver’s license to a Qatari one, people must first ascertain whether their present license is qualified for direct exchange. Driving licenses from some countries may be eligible for this method. It is recommended that you check first to find out whether your foreign license can be switched directly.
Furthermore, expats desiring to swap their license must have a valid Qatari Residence Permit. Individuals holding a GCC license (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, or the UAE) have a more expedited process. They can skip the training course and go straight to the driving exam.
Vehicle Safety and Maintenance Knowledge:
- Ensure familiarity with basic vehicle maintenance checks, such as tire pressure and oil levels, which are often emphasized during training.
Qatar Driving License Approved Countries 2025
Here’s a table listing the approved countries for exchanging a driving license in Qatar as of 2025:
| Region / Country | Approved Countries |
| GCC Countries | Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE) |
| Other Approved Countries | Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City |
This list is subject to change, so it’s recommended to confirm the latest details with the Qatar Traffic Department or a local driving school.
Qatar Driving License for Individuals with Disabilities
Individuals with disabilities or impairments seeking a driving license in Qatar must follow this procedure:
Referral and Medical Assessment:
The individual will first acquire a reference letter from the Traffic Department indicating the type of disability (if evident). This letter will send them to the Medical Services Department for a complete medical evaluation.
Medical Reports and License Eligibility:
Based on the findings of the medical evaluation, a report will be written summarizing the individual’s physical health and any limits. This report will indicate if the person is fit or unfit to drive, as well as the particular conditions under which they can operate a vehicle.
Validity and Renewal of Qatar Driving License:
- Check renewal procedures for expatriate driving licenses, which must be done every five years. Renewal is done through Metrash2 or the MOI website.
Specialized License and Vehicle Adaptation:
If the individual is declared fit to drive, they will be awarded a driving license that is adapted to their specific needs, including information on the sort of vehicle they are permitted to operate. This could include the usage of customized automobiles, such as those with hand controls for people with lower-limb limitations.
The driver’s license will clearly show the individual’s disability status.
Vehicle Labeling:
Vehicles driven by people with disabilities must bear a distinguishing label indicating that the driver has special needs.Final evaluation:
The medical report’s results will be used to make the final judgment on issuing a driver’s license. This evaluation will establish whether the individual’s impairment allows them to drive safely and under what conditions.
Support Services for Learners with Anxiety:
- Driving schools often have special support for nervous learners, including extra practice sessions and customized training approaches.
Insurance Benefits Linked to a Qatar Driving License:
- Holding a valid Qatar driving license may reduce insurance premiums compared to international licenses when registering a vehicle locally.
Common Reasons for Test Failure and How to Avoid Them:
- Lack of confidence – Practice frequently with your instructor.
- Failing to check mirrors – Make a habit of consistent mirror checks before maneuvers.
- Speeding or hesitation – Maintain a balanced speed suitable for road conditions.
Drive in Qatar with a US License
Tourists and visitors can drive using their US license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to six months. However, residents with a Qatar Residence Permit (QID) must obtain a Qatar driving license.
FAQs
Can I drive in Qatar with a Pakistani license?
You can drive in Qatar with a valid Pakistani driving license, but only under certain conditions.Visitors and tourists are permitted to drive for a limited period using an International Driving Permit (IDP).However, once you obtain a Qatar Residence Permit (QID), you are required to apply for a Qatar driving license to continue driving legally.
How many chances are there for a driving test in Qatar?
You are allowed two attempts to pass the road test. If you fail both attempts, you will be required to re-enroll in the driving course and complete additional training before scheduling another test.
Which profession is not eligible for a driving license in Qatar?
Individuals in certain low-income or administrative occupations, such as cleaners, domestic helpers, and specific labor categories, may encounter restrictions or additional requirements while applying for a driver’s license. These occupations are typically regarded ineligible for a driver’s license unless certain prerequisites are met.
