Driver’s licenses in Qatar makes it much easier to get from place to place at your own leisure. But, before you can start driving your own vehicle or operating certain types of machinery, you will need to have the proper driver’s license. In Qatar, it is required by law that anyone driving or operating a vehicle MUST have the appropriate license.
Understanding the types of driving licenses, one must apply for in Qatar will ensure that you get the right kind of license to meet the requirements of your chosen profession and/or personal needs.
Types Of Driver’s Licenses In Qatar
Understanding the types of driving licenses, one must apply for in Qatar will ensure that you get the right kind of license to meet the requirements of your chosen profession and/or personal needs.
1. Motorcycle License
Owning a motorcycle in Qatar is one way to get around quickly and efficiently. It’s also an excellent option for those with small garages or who live in condominiums or apartments with limited parking space.
A motorcycle license in Qatar allows the holder to drive a motorcycle with an engine that is larger than 50cmx50cmx50cm. This means that the motorcycle engine must be at least the mentioned size for it to be considered a motorcycle. Moreover, the motorcycle must have two or more wheels and NOT be shaped like a car. Such stipulations are placed to ensure the safety and assurance of all drivers on the road.
2. Light Motor Vehicle License
A light motor vehicle encompasses both public and private with a total weight not above 5 tons. Additionally, those who drive a light bus with a capacity of not more than 25 passengers may also use a light motor vehicle license.
Any vehicle exceeding 5 tons or with a passenger capacity over 25 persons must apply for a different license based on specifics, which we will list in further sections.
3. Driver’s Licenses in Qatar For Bus
In Qatar, a bus is considered a heavy motor vehicle and requires a different license to drive from a motorcycle license or light motor vehicle license. For those who operate a public transport bus in Qatar, the bus driver’s license allows its operators to drive buses that exceed 25 passengers.
4. Medium Truck License
Those who work as delivery personnel and transport goods across the country must apply for a medium truck license. A medium truck is considered a heavy motor vehicle and also requires its own license, different from that of a light motor vehicle license. This license allows drivers to drive a truck with a total weight of between 5 to 13 tons.
Heavy trucks in Qatar are required to have a weight of over 5 tons. Such trucks can carry goods and cargo. The license also allows the driver to carry goods weighing more than 20kg.
5. Trailer License
A trailer license in Qatar allows the holder to drive vehicles that exceed 13 tons in total weight. Moreover, those who apply and device a trailer driver’s license can also drive buses and medium trucks. Trailer licenses fall under heavy motor vehicle licenses.
6. Forklift Operation License
Operating and driving a forklift in Qatar requires an equipment drivers license. Equipment driver’s licenses allow the holder to operate industrial and construction machinery. In the case of a forklift license, the driver is permitted to use and drive a forklift.
7. Bulldozer Operation License
Bulldozers in Qatar fall under the category of equipment driver’s license. Those who hold a bulldozer license in Qatar can also operate and drive loading and smaller equipment vehicles. Additionally, such a license also allows the holder to drive light motor vehicles that have been licensed by the General Administration of Traffic.
8. Crane Operation License
Crane licenses in Qatar are specifically issued for those who operate and drive the cranes used to load and unload heavy cargo from ships into port. These cranes usually have a total weight that exceeds 15 tons. Crane licenses are also categorised under heavy motor vehicle licenses. Those who hold a crane operators driver’s license are also permitted to drive smaller equipment vehicles.
9. Excavator Operation License
Excavator licenses in Qatar are issued to those who professionally handle excavators. Such licenses also fall under heavy equipment licenses and require a professional license application to obtain. Furthermore, excavator licenses are also valid for those who drive smaller equipment vehicles.
10. Public Vehicle License
Holding a public vehicle driver’s license in Qatar allows the user to drive public transport vehicles such as tourist vehicles, taxis, and some smaller equipment vehicles. In addition to this, holding a commercial driver’s license in Qatar also allows the holder to operate large vehicles and buses.
11. Handicaps License for Light Motor Vehicles
Those with a handicap, such as hearing or vision impairments that are still within a reasonable range of correctability, require a handicap license to drive Qatar’s vehicles. Such handicaps include but are not limited to:
- Visual impairment
- Hearing impairment
- Physical impairment
Each handicap has its limitations, requirements and stipulations, so make sure to check government information before submitting your application.
12. Learners & Temporary License
Learners and temporary licenses in Qatar allow drivers who have not yet acquired a full license to drive. Drivers of 18 years of age or above may apply for learner’s licenses in Qatar. In addition, such a license is valid for a period of 6 months from the date of issuance. Learner’s licenses are issued for light motor vehicles only.
Take note, obtaining a drivers license in Qatar requires citizens to apply through the proper government channels. The process of obtaining a drivers license in Qatar usually takes about 2-3 weeks. It can take longer depending on the type of license you are applying for and the number of applicants at the time of application.
