Foreigners visiting Qatar can use their driving licence for 7 days only. For longer periods, you should first obtain a temporary driving permit from the Traffic Department. Then, once you obtain a residency permit, you must go back to the local Traffic Department to obtain a full Qatar driving licence. Alternatively, you can use an international driving licence for 6 months.

Most Westerners can change their licence at Traffic Department without taking a driving test. For that, you will need :

- Passport or ID card,
- 3 photos (can be done on site),
- original driving licence,
- your sponsor’s ID + he will have to fill up a form and may also have to provide a letter.

For other nationalities, the process is a little bit longer since you'll need to pass a driving test. But first, you’ll have to get all the necessary documents cleared at the Traffic Department then go to a driving school before starting the test. You will find help on site too !

Information can be obtained at :
Traffic Department / Tel: 4890644
Location: Madinat Khalifa (North), off Khalifa Street, close to Al Gharrafa flyover.