Driving license in Qatar

If you are trying to make driving license in Qatar then it is really sad news for you. It doesn’t matter how expert your driving is you all have to go through driving class.

According to the Gulf Times expatriates from the following country Australia, the UK and other European countries should pass necessary tests in order to be granted a driving license.  

Earlier, people from above mentioned country could walk away with a license by presenting their document from home and passing a mandatory eyes test.

A British embassy spokesperson told Gulf Times that the new requirements were applicable only to new applicants and not those seeking renewals.

“The British embassy is liaising with local authorities to establish the reasons for the change. We understand the new requirements apply to all nationalities previously able to exchange without a test,” a spokesperson said.

The embassy has already informed British nationals living in the country about the new regulation. British visitors holding valid full UK licences may still drive for up to seven days from arrival, or up to six months if held in conjunction with a valid international driving licence.

Reports say that citizens of other European countries and Australia are also required to take the tests now.

Swedish ambassador Ewa Polano said she had heard about it, but was awaiting more details.

“I heard quite a lot about this from my colleagues. However, I’m still waiting for confirmation if the new rule applies to Swedish nationals as well. Most probably, it’s the same for Sweden and other European countries,” she said.

Meanwhile, sources in various driving schools said getting a Qatari licence, especially for those without any driving experience, remained ‘very difficult.’ The low passing rate is also a huge concern.

It generally takes many months to get a schedule for theory lessons, and at least another two or three months to start road practice. Getting a schedule for theory, parking and road tests leads to another long wait, said a learner at one of the schools