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by Expatguru - 10/08/2011
"This article describes the procedure for obtaining a driving license in Qatar."
Expatriates planning to work in Qatar will find it convenient to have a driving license. Though there is Public transport in the country, the transport network is not that well developed and if you are with your family, I would strongly advise you to have a car.
Having a driving license is an absolute must, before you drive a car in the country. Note that this is also used as an authentic proof of identity while entering some of the compounds and it has the added benefit of validity in other GCC countries. Let me now brief you about the latest procedure to have a driving license in Qatar.
Unless you already have a valid driving license from any other GCC country (i.e., Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman or Bahrain) or from any Western country, giving the road test is mandatory for obtaining a driving license, even if you know driving. If you already possess a driving license from these countries, the first step is to obtain an eye test certificate. This certificate can be easily obtained by getting your eyes tested by any authorized ophthalmologist and costs QR30. You also need to obtain a No Objection Certificate from your Qatari sponsor. Along with your current license, you must submit these documents with the required fees and two photographs to the traffic police and you should get your Qatari driving license on the same day.
In case you do not have a valid driving license from the above countries, it is mandatory to go through the road test after undergoing training in any of the authorized driving schools. The period of training depends on how fast you pick up the driving skills. Typically, you would be sent for the road test in about 3 weeks. Most driving schools have lady instructors for those women trainees who prefer them.
The current rate charged by these schools is around QR2400. The fees once paid are valid for a maximum of 6 months. You are allowed up to 4 attempts in the road test. Usually, people do fail in the first attempt and it is quite normal to wait for about 2 to 3 weeks before you get an appointment for a re-test. Not only is it important to do the road test, but you must also be thorough with the traffic signs. The school would give you a CD containing all the information and also a sheet having all the symbols. You must memorize these symbols, as on the day of the test, there would be an oral test on these too.
Once you are through with the test, you would be getting your license on the same day.
Expatguru
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Sathish Mohan