International Driving Permit for Qatar
Qatar drives on the right, and its modern, wide highways around Doha are heavily monitored by speed and red-light cameras, with fines that are among the steepest in the region. Tolerance for alcohol while driving is effectively zero. Visitors typically need an International Driving Permit to drive on a foreign licence, while residents must convert to a Qatari licence.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Qatar?
Short-stay visitors generally need an International Driving Permit to drive or rent a car in Qatar, as the national licence is issued in Arabic and an IDP provides the required recognised translation.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Middle East
- IDP
- Required
Local languages: Arabic, English
Driving in Qatar: key facts
- Qatar enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy on alcohol for drivers, and penalties can include heavy fines and detention.
- Roads are extensively covered by automated speed and red-light cameras, and speeding fines are notably high.
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and using a handheld phone while driving carries significant penalties.
How to get your IDP for Qatar
Getting your International Driving Permit for Qatar takes only a few minutes:
- 1Apply online
Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.
- 2Upload your documents
Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.
- 3Get your IDP instantly
Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Qatar.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Qatar
Do I need an IDP to drive in Qatar?
Yes, short-stay visitors generally need an International Driving Permit to drive or rent a car in Qatar. The IDP translates your national licence, which is important because Qatari documents are issued in Arabic.
Can I rent a car in Qatar with a foreign licence?
Visitors can usually rent a car with a foreign licence presented together with an International Driving Permit. Residents are expected to obtain a Qatari driving licence.
What side of the road does Qatar drive on?
Qatar drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to drive in Qatar?
The minimum driving age in Qatar is 18. Rental companies commonly set a higher minimum, often 21 or 25, and may require the driver to have held a licence for a minimum period.
Other countries in Middle East
International Driving Permit for Qatar
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