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What is an International Driving License?
An International Driving License, commonly known as an International Driving Permit (IDP) or Carnet de Passage en Douane (CPD), is an official document that translates your national driving license into multiple languages. It enables you to legally drive in countries that recognise the international conventions governing IDPs.
The IDP serves as a supplementary document and must always be carried together with your valid domestic driving license. 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.
- What is an International Driving License?
- Who Can Apply for International Driving License in Qatar
- International Driving License Requirements in Qatar
- International Driving License Fee in Qatar
- Where To Apply for International Driving License in Qatar
- Requirements for International Driving License
- Procedure to Apply
- Other Things To Note
- Countries That Recognise IDP
- Driving With an International Driving License in Qatar
- Quick Overview of International Driving License in Qatar
- International Driving License vs Qatar Driving License
- Conclusion
- FAQ About International Driving License
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
In Qatar, anyone who meets the following criteria can apply:
- Holds a valid Qatari driving license
- Is 18 years old or above
- Has a valid Qatar ID or residence permit
- Holds a passport valid for international travel
Anyone with a valid Qatar Driving License can now apply for an International Driving License in Qatar.
Temporary or provisional driving licences are generally not eligible for an IDP.
International Driving License Requirements in Qatar
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Qatar Driving License | Must be valid at the time of application. Temporary licences are not accepted. |
| Copies of Documents | Copy of Qatar ID, passport copy, and Qatari driving license. |
| Passport-Size Photos | Two recent passport-size photos (colour or black-and-white; not scanned). |
| Minimum Age | Applicant must be at least 18 years old. |
| Application Form | IDP application form provided by the authorised issuing authority. |
| Application Fee | Typically around QR 150 (cash), depending on the issuing office. |
| Validity | Usually 1 year (1949 Convention IDP). 1968 IDP may have up to 3 years’ validity. |
| Where to Apply | Qatar Automobile and Touring Club (QATC) or approved travel agencies/driving schools. |
International Driving License Fee in Qatar
The fee is typically around QR 150, depending on the issuing office. Please note that some places like QATC only accept cash payment.
Where To Apply for International Driving License in Qatar
In Qatar, the authorised body for issuing IDPs is the Qatar Automobile and Touring Club (QATC).
In addition to QATC, several travel agencies and driving schools are approved to issue international driving licences, including:
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.
QATC Working Hours
| Days | Work Hours |
|---|---|
| Saturday To Thursday | 8 AM to 12 PM 3 PM to 5 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
Qatar Automobile And Touring Club WhatsApp: +974-7478 4371
Driving Schools Offering International Driving License
- Karwa Driving School
- Al Ijarah Driving Academy
- Al Khebra Driving School
Travel Agents Offering International Driving License
- Darwish Travel
- Mannai Air Travel
- Al Muftah Rent A Car
- Regency Holidays
- Ali Bin Ali Travel
- Safe Travels & Tourism
- Deluxe Travels
- Target Travels
- Go Mosafer
Requirements for International Driving License
Typical requirements include:
- Valid Qatari driving license
- Qatar ID (QID) or valid residence permit
- Passport copy
- Two passport-sized photos (white background)
- Payment of applicable fee (generally around QAR 150, depending on the issuing centre)
Your Qatari driving license must be valid for the full duration of the one-year IDP. Some offices may ask you to complete an application form.
Procedure to Apply
The application process is straightforward:
- Visit QATC or an authorised agency/driving school.
- Submit the required documents and filled application form.
- Pay the fee at the counter. QATC accepts cash only (QR 150).
- Your IDP is typically issued on the same day, often within minutes.
- Collect your printed International Driving License and keep it with your Qatar driving license when travelling.
Some agencies may offer online submission, but issuance and collection are usually in person.
Other Things To Note
- An IDP issued in Qatar is valid for one year from the date of issue.
- You must carry your Qatari driving license together with the IDP at all times abroad.
- An IDP does not permit you to drive if local regulations require a resident to apply for a local licence.
- You must obtain the IDP in the same country that issued your original driving license.
- If your Qatari driving license expires, the IDP automatically becomes invalid.
- Lost IDPs cannot be reissued abroad — you must reapply in Qatar.
Countries That Recognise IDP
Many countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally, including most of Europe. You must carry both your national driver’s license and the IDP, as the IDP is a translation and not a standalone license.
Africa: Algeria, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Morocco, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, Zimbabwe
Asia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, China (Taiwan), Cyprus, Georgia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Korea (Republic of), Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Macau, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Syrian Arab Republic, Thailand, Türkiye (Turkey), Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vietnam
Europe: Albania, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holy See (Vatican City), Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova (Republic of), Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russian Federation, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom
North America: Bahamas, Barbados, Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, United States of America
South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela
Oceania: Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea
Note: Some countries do not recognize or accept the IDP. The full list of eligible countries will be included in the printed IDP you receive. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the latest requirements with your destination before you travel.
Driving With an International Driving License in Qatar
Visitors may use an International Driving License to drive in Qatar temporarily. Key points include:
- Rental companies in Qatar may ask to see both documents for verification.
- Tourists with a valid IDP may drive in Qatar for a limited period, usually up to three months, depending on immigration status.
- Visitors must also carry their original home-country driving licence.
- Residents and Qatari licence holders cannot use an IDP to drive inside Qatar; the IDP is only for driving abroad.
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.
Quick Overview of International Driving License in Qatar
- Issued by QATC, authorised travel agencies, and driving schools
- Valid for 1 year
- Requires a valid Qatari driving license + QID + passport copy + 2 photos
- Usually issued on the same day
- Needed when renting or driving abroad
- Tourists can use an IDP to drive in Qatar for a short period
- Residents cannot use an IDP to drive inside Qatar
Functions of an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Translation of your licence:
An IDP provides an official translation of your domestic driving license, making it easier for foreign authorities to understand your driving credentials.
Proof of valid licence:
It confirms that you hold a valid driving license in your home country and are legally permitted to drive motor vehicles.
Vehicle category confirmation:
The IDP specifies which types of vehicles you are authorised to drive, matching the categories on your original licence.
Support for road safety:
Because many countries require an IDP, it helps ensure that only licensed drivers are on the road, contributing to safer driving standards worldwide.
International Driving License vs Qatar Driving License
| Feature | International Driving License (IDP) | Qatar Driving License |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Driving abroad | Driving inside Qatar |
| Issued By | QATC & authorised agencies | Ministry of Interior |
| Validity | 1 year | 5–10 years (depending on category) |
| Requirement | Must have a valid Qatar driving license | Must pass theory & road test |
| Accepted In | Countries recognising IDPs | Within Qatar + some countries that permit temporary use |
Conclusion
An International Driving License is a valuable document for Qatar residents who plan to drive overseas, as well as for tourists driving temporarily in Qatar. It provides a widely recognised translation of your driving credentials and helps avoid legal or administrative problems when renting a car or dealing with foreign authorities. With simple requirements and same-day issuance, obtaining an IDP in Qatar is quick and convenient.
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.
Can I renew my IDP?
Yes. You can apply for a new IDP once the old one expires, provided your Qatar driving license is still valid.
Related Articles:
- How To Get Qatar Driving License
- Professions Not Eligible For Driving License in Qatar
- Fahes Vehicle Inspection: Complete Guide
- How to Check, Report and Appeal Traffic Violations in Qatar
- Qatar Traffic Signs And Their Meanings
- How To Renew Istimara Online in Qatar
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Aneesh, the Founder & Editor of DohaGuides holds a Master’s Degree in Communication & Journalism, and has two decades of experience living in the Middle East. Since 2014, he and his team have been sharing helpful content on travel, visa rules, and expatriate affairs.
I am resident of Qatar and has qatar drivers license. I am moving to Australia and I have plan to take Australia drivers license. Is it useful to take international driver permit from qatar or based on qatar license I can process to get Australian license?
I intend to go to Muscat on vacation. With a Qatar driving license, can I drive in Muscat or do I need an IDP? Thanks in advance.
Hi Mani, According to the Oman Police website, you can drive a car in Oman with your country’s license, as long as you have a visit visa valid for 3 months. An international license is not required. However, if you plan to rent a car, the rental company may (or may not) ask for an international license. You should discuss this with the rental company.
Hi, I am an indian and I got Qatar DL. Now I am on temporary transfer to UAE for six month on Work Visa, Can I drive at UAE for six months with international license?
Hi Krishnakumar, You can drive if you are on a visitor visa in UAE. If you are on UAE resident visa, you will need to approach the driving authority in your Emirate.
Is IDP valid in Home Country, if I issued in Qatar on my Qatar Driving License? & how much time they take to issue?
Hi Suhel, The list of countries will be stated on the IDP document. However some countries only accept IDP for visitors (not for residents). Moreover some countries have different rules for different states. So you need to check this with your home state’s traffic department.
Im srilankan Nationality stay in Qatar with Valid Driving License, may i have International Driving License from Qatar Can i drive in India.im planing visit india for few days
Hi Shantha, If you have Qatar license, you can get IDL from Qatar and drive in India.