How to Get an International Driving License in Qatar?

Are you a Qatari resident and planning to travel abroad? If so, you will need an international driving license. An international driving license or  International driving permit (IDP) is necessary if you want to drive in foreign countries. It’s a translated document that allows you to drive in more than 150 countries if you have a valid driving license issued by that country. Likewise, if someone is coming to Qatar as a visitor or a tourist, he should have an International driving permit to get and drive a Car in Qatar.

This article will show how Qatari residents and citizens can get an International Driving License if they travel abroad and want to drive there.

Eligibility to Apply for an International Driving License in Qatar

All citizens who want to drive in Qatar should have a valid driver’s license and IDP (International Driving Permit) from their country.

Where to Apply for an International Driving License in Qatar?

Residents of Qatar can get IDP from Qatar Automobile and Touring Club (QATC) as this club is authorized to issue International Driving Permits and Carnet De Passage to those who apply for it in Qatar. Here is the detail of QATC:

QATC TimeSaturday to Thursday (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Friday (Closed)
Phone Number+97474784371
Website LinkOfficial Website
LocationDoha, Qatar

Some driving schools and travel agents are also offering IDP; here are the details:

Driving Schools:

Travel Agencies:

  • Darwish Travel Company
  • Mannai Air Travel
  • Deluxe Travels
  • Aamal Travel & Tourism
  • Al Muftah Rent A Car
  • Ali bin Ali Travel
  • Sulaiman Travel
  • Go Mosafer
  • Regency Holidays
  • Safe Travels & Tourism
  • Target Travels

Documents Required for an International Driving License

The following are the documents required to apply for IDP in Qatar.

  • Two passport-size photographs.
  • A valid Qatar Driving License
  • A copy of your Qatar ID
  • Original Passport

Procedure to Apply for an International Driving License in Qatar

Getting an international driving license in Qatar is relatively easy. However, you should have all the required documents before applying to QATC or any of the mentioned driving schools or travel agencies. Following three steps you need to follow to get your IDP:

  • Fill out the application form
  • Submit your documents
  • Pay a 150 QR fee
  • After 30 minutes your International Driving License will be in your hands

Validity of the License

Visitors in Qatar are allowed to rent and drive a car; however, they must have an International Driving License. The validity of that driving license depends on how long you plan to stay in Qatar.

One week-rule

If your driving license is from one of the approved countries, you can drive for a week from the day you arrive in Qatar. After that, you need a temporary license, an international driving license, or a Qatari one.

Temporary license

To drive in Qatar, you need a temporary license valid for up to 3 months. To apply for that license, you need to bring the documents mentioned above to the traffic department at Madinat Khalifa.

Fundamental Traffic Rules in Qatar

Some rules must be followed while driving in Qatar. Otherwise, you will face the consequences in the form of heavy fines or a ban on your driving.

  • You must keep the seat belt on while driving. Also, who is sitting in the front passenger seat
  • Children under ten are not allowed to sit in the front passenger seat.
  • Must give way to the car, which is already in the roundabout
  • Keep the Driving License and registration documents (Istimara) in your car
  • If the driver owns 14 points in 12 months from the violations, his license will be suspended for three months.
Click Here to Check Penalties and How to Pay Them

The Speed Limit

The speed limit is one regulation that should be followed strictly as it is a major cause of death in road accidents. The Speed limit varies from 60 to 100 km/h when driving on city roads. However, this speed could reach a maximum of 120 km/h when driving on highways.

City Roads60-100 km/h
National Highways100-120 km/h

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How old do I have to be to obtain an IDP?

    You must be at least 18 years of age.

  2. Which address do I use on the IDP application form?

    The address that is shown on your domestic driving license.

  3. How long does it take to get the IDP processed?

    It varies depending on the administration which issues the IDP and the process established by the authorities. It can be just minutes in an issuing office or it may take weeks if the application needs to be made by post.

  4. Does possession of the IDP along with my domestic-issued driver’s license override any local laws?

    No. Although the IDP is valid for one year, you must adhere to all local laws. For example, in many countries, if you take up residence or employment there you need to obtain a local license.

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