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. Hi I’m sukhman from india and i have Qatar heavy vehicle driving license and now I’m in India but I need international driving permit how can apply online for international driving license from India

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Sukhman, With Qatar Driving License you can only apply IDL from Qatar. If you have Indian license, you can apply for IDL from India.

  2. Hello Team,
    I’ve a query regarding I’ve Qatar Driving License & I’m travelling to India (Home Country) can I apply for an IDP is it valid in Home Country also? To apply in India needs minimum 40 days to complete the process for license & my vacation only 15 – 20 days.
    Please advice can I apply & legally drive a vehicle in India on IDP holding Qatar’s valid License.

  3. Hi DG team,
    I have a Qatar’s driving license valid till Aug 2023. If I obtain an IDP, can I drive in USA?

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Tony, Generally speaking you can drive in the US with an IDP if you are a visitor. Note that some U.S. states do not require an IDP. As driving rules are different in some states, please check the local authority website.

  4. Hi
    My name is prabin gir from Nepali live in Doha Al Wakrah
    How can get international Driving lisence help me please

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Prabin Giri, If you have Qatar license, go to QATC and apply. If you don’t have Qatar license, you need to get Qatar license first.

      1. Sir I have Qatar driving license but I want to make international so what documents need for make international so help me please thank you

        1. Doha Guides Team

          Hi Prabin Giri, Just visit QATC or approved travel agents (details given above). Documents needed are Qatar license, passport size photos, passport and QR 150 fee. Please read the above article for more details.

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Jo, You can drive your own vehicle or rent a car. The problem with driving some one else’s private vehicle on IDP is that if you meet with an accident, the insurance company will not cover that.

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Ramakrishnan, Only your sponsor can change your visa type. Please discuss with sponsor or PRO.

  5. I have a drivers license from America. In need of an IDP for a Job in Kuwait. Is the IDP you offer valid in Kuwait?

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Ross, The IDP issued in Qatar is valid in Kuwait also. But normally you require IDP from the country where the original license is issued. So we are not sure if you can get an IDP from Qatar based on a USA licence. Please call and check the phone number given above.

  6. Hi,
    Hope you are doing well. I like your help to get driving license in Qatar.
    Please let me know I have UAE Expire driving license may I go for direct test or require attending the classes, also I want to take one class for road and parking before taking test how you will guide in this regard?

  7. Hi Sir/mam.
    Is there a list of countries that we can use the international driving license?
    And is this applicable on motorcycle as well??

    Thanks

    1. Hi Erwin, It is valid in most countries. The list of countries will be printed on the international license. If you have a motorcycle license, you can add that to the international license.

  8. Dear Sir/Madam,
    Can I drive a car in Qatar with the international driving permit provided in India. Please advise.
    Thanks.

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Christy, You can drive for a limited period if you are on a visitor visa. You cannot drive if you are on a resident/employment visa.

  9. Dear sir or madam I’m Bangladeshi nationality Mohammed sohel I have a valid Qatar light driving license over the last 22 year
    Currently I am back to Bangladesh but right now I want to IDP my license from Bangladesh is it possible? If possible please let me know the details. Thank you my contact mobile:+8801325403990 and email: [email protected]

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Mohammed, You can get IDP in Bangladesh with a Bangladeshi license. Please contact the Automobile Association of Bangladesh (Phone :+88-02-9361054,+88-02-9341342). We are not sure if they issue IDP with Qatar license. You can check with them.

    1. Doha Guides Team

      Hi Abdul Aziz, For most countries, you must take a driving test to get a Qatar license. You can use your international license to drive for a limited time while visiting Qatar. You cannot use it if you are a resident.

  10. I have a valid qateri light and heavy-duty license. If I change in IDP license isn’t both light or heavy license change same time or isn’t my qateri license validation cut from 5yrs to 1 yes.

    1. Hi Zulfiqar, It was not being asked until recently. Anyways we have added the original passport also as a requirement. Thanks for the update.

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