How to Get an International Driving License in Qatar (2024)

Doha Guides Team regularly reviews this article to ensure the content is up-to-date and accurate. The last editorial review and update were on 16 January 2024.

What is an International Driving License?

International Driving License, also known as International Driver’s Permit (IDP), is a document that allows an individual to drive a motor vehicle in more than 150 countries when accompanied by a valid full license from the country of issue.

It is also a United Nations-regulated travel document for your safety and ease of travel.

This article explains how Qatar residents and citizens can apply for an International Driving License in Qatar that would allow them to drive while visiting other countries.

An International Driving License is a document slightly larger than a standard passport. It is a multiple language translation of one’s existing driver’s license, complete with your photograph and other information.

Who Can Apply for International Driving License in Qatar

Anyone with a valid Qatar Driving License can now apply for an International Driving License in Qatar.

Where To Apply for International Driving License in Qatar

If you are a resident of Qatar, you can directly apply at Qatar Automobile and Touring Club. They are the authority to issue International Driving Permits and Carnet de passages (Trip Tickets) in Qatar.

Some travel agents, car rental companies and driving schools also provide the same service. Below are the contact details:

QATC Location and Timing

Qatar Automobile and Touring Club is located on C-Ring Road opposite Doha Petrol Station between the Gulf Cinema signal and Toyota signal. Here is the QATC Location Map on Google.

Qatar Automobile And Touring Club Phone: 7478 4371

Qatar Automobile And Touring Club
Qatar Automobile And Touring Club

QATC Working Hours

DaysWork Hours
Saturday To Thursday9 AM to 1 PM
FridayClosed

QATC Website Link

Driving Schools Offering International Driving Licenses

Travel Agents Offering International Driving License

Requirements for International Driving License

  1. Valid Qatari Driving License
  2. Original passport (may be asked in some places)
  3. Two passport-size photographs
  4. QR 150 (Only cash accepted at QATC)

Procedure to Apply

The process is really simple and takes only five minutes. Go to any of the above offices and give your driver’s license, two passport-size photographs, and the fee (QR 150).

They would print your details onto an International Driving License, affix your photo and stamp it.

Qatar International Driving License Sample
Sample of International Driving License

Other Things To Note

  • In general, temporary and international licence holders are restricted to driving rental vehicles (rent-a-car) as insurance companies require drivers of privately-owned vehicles to hold a full licence.
  • The list of valid countries is included in the license.
  • The International Driving License usually is valid for one year from the issuing date.
  • The International Driving License is valid only when presented with the original Qatar Driving License.
  • Many countries require an International Driving License to drive legally. Fines for driving without an International Driving License can be quite costly. Make sure to check the destination country’s requirements before travelling.

Driving With an International Driving License in Qatar

Qatar has signed the United Nations convention that allows visitors with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) / International Driving License to rent a car and drive in Qatar. Visitors are allowed to drive up to six months from the date of entry or the validity period of the license (whichever is earlier). Qatar residents cannot drive with an International Driving License inside the country.

All visitors who plan to drive must ensure they obtain an IDP in their home country or country of residence before travelling. It is not allowed to renew the license while the license holder is in Qatar.

The IDP holders are only allowed to drive vehicle categories licensed for them. International licence holders are normally restricted to driving rental vehicles (rent-a-car) only due to vehicle insurance restrictions.

NOTE: After you enter Qatar on a visit visa or a business visa and apply for a resident permit or employment visa, your home license and international driving permit are no longer valid.

Conclusion

The IDP proves that you hold a valid driver’s license in your country of residence. It will also help protect you and your family in the event of an accident and/or vehicle damage while driving abroad or the loss of legal identification such as a passport.

An International Driving License gives you peace of mind while exploring the world – even if you’re not planning to drive!

READ NEXT: List of Traffic Violation Fines And Points in Qatar


FAQ About International Driving License


Can I apply for an International Driving License with an overseas driving license?

No, if you are applying from Qatar, a valid Qatar driving license is required to apply.

Can I apply for the license with a Learner, Provisional or Restricted license?

No, A full and valid Qatar driving license is the only accepted license if you are applying from Qatar.

How long is the International Driving License valid?

International Driving License obtained from Qatar is normally valid for one year.

Can I apply for IDP if my Qatar driving license has been lost, suspended, cancelled or revoked?

No, you must carry a valid Qatar driving license in order to apply.


Related Articles:

  1. How To Get Qatar Driving License
  2. Professions Not Eligible For Driving License in Qatar
  3. Fahes Vehicle Inspection: Complete Guide
  4. How to Check, Report and Appeal Traffic Violations in Qatar
  5. Qatar Traffic Signs And Their Meanings
  6. How To Renew Istimara Online in Qatar

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  1. If we cannot drive a rental car with the International License then what is the use of it ? Nobody buy a car if he is visiting a country for a short time or just go to other countries for a trip.

  2. Hello Guys
    I’m traveling to Spain this summer 2018 .
    I’de like to apply for a international drive license in Qatar .
    I have a Qatari drive license valid .
    Where shall I come to make it , please ?
    Many thanks

  3. Narayan prasad gurung

    I have qatar driving license I just want to make international driving license plz could any one help me contract number ii will call you but one thing can I driving in nepal

  4. Sheikh Muhammad Raheel

    Once IDL expires what about renewel process?

    Same fee will be imposed for renewel or less?

    And procedure will be same or no more requirement for photos as data is already in your database.

    Thanks and Regards,
    Sheikh Muhammad Raheel.

  5. You can obtain international license in Qatar, but you need to first get a valid Qatari license first to apply for the same.

    1. Good day Sir what if I’m holding only a Xerox of my License here in Qatar still its possible to get
      I am a truck driver here and my original licence
      is holding by my Company

  6. Hi all
    Can anybody guide me for getting Qatari driving licence ? I am on my husbands’s visa(RP). I have Indian driving licence from 1998. How can I get Qatari Driving licence and how much it costs ? Thanks in advance.

  7. lovepreet singh

    Am from india my name is love preet singh i will come in doha katar in few days i have only indian light lience but now i will want to drive in europen country so thats why i want to make my international lience sir … it is possible to make international lience in doha katar can u help me contact me on my id [email protected] my number 918288985888

  8. syed mustafa qader hashmi

    I have residencity primit of qatar .i am here in qatar last 9 moths and and i have international driving permit which i got in india.
    Can i drive in qatar now .

    Reply please.

  9. Dear All,

    we are providing service to take a International Driving License permit to our clients within 4 hours.we only charge 150 QR. License Fees 100 QR. as our service charge. Total 250

    Our executive will go to QATC. For this service we will collect documents from your place and after finishing work will deliver all the documents at your place.

    Document Required :

    1) Qatar Valid License

    2) Two Passport size Photographs

    Note :

    *To avail this service you must hold a Qatar Valid Driving License.

    *service charge for outside doha is 150 QR

    Contact us on : 50257677 or 33016347
    Contact person : Pradeep Nair

  10. For international license please feel free to contact 66160168 any time. We are working 24 hrs..we do international license, free emergency road side assistance, car washing,and istmara renewal service please feel free to cintact

    1. I am not in qatar but i want to renew my driving license and my id card was expired on may 2016 and can i renew my driving license ? And my driving license is going to expire on feb 2017 if there any chance to renew my license i am ready to pay suitable cost plz answer me thanks

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