Contents
On December 13, 2025, the Ministry of Interior published a press release announcing new license plates that will standardize the plate system and underpin their visual identity. What does this mean for a regular Qatar resident? Do you need to replace your plates with new ones immediately? Here’s what we know so far.
What changes with the new number plates?
The latest Ministry of Interior (MOI) project is a new, enhanced design of number plates. It follows the highest international standards and will support technologies used in smart traffic, making it easier to modernize the traffic system.
The main benefit of the new plates is standardization. They will now have a clear, more precise criterion for their contents. This allows them to be used in advanced digital traffic technologies and enables easier and more comprehensive modernization. This project is part of MOI’s efforts to update existing traffic systems and make them more efficient.
Should you replace your number plate immediately?
No. The number plate change will be conducted in phases, and vehicles that already have plates likely won’t be replaced before April 2026.
Is there a deadline for changing number plates?
The license plate project will be conducted in phases and concerns all vehicle types. Most of the deadlines will be announced soon.
The first phase will consist of allocating the letter Q to all car owners who get special plate numbers via Sooum and apply between the 13th and 16th of December. Phase two is dedicated to all first-time vehicle registrations and involves assigning available letters such as Q, T, or R, based on an approved sequence. It commences on April 1, 2026.
The third phase includes replacing all existing private vehicle license plates with new plates featuring a letter Q. The timeline for this will be announced at a later date. The timelines for non-private vehicle license replacements with two additional letters to their plate numbers will be announced in the future.
The new Qatar number plate will have the same pricing, from QAR 200 for standard replacement.
What does this mean for car owners in Qatar?
If you already have a license plate, there’s no need to do anything at the moment. The timeline for the third phase, which involves the replacement of existing plates, has not been announced yet. It will likely happen after April of 2026, so there’s no rush to replace your license plates at the moment. Still, you should keep an eye on MOI press releases to check if any dates for replacement are announced.
On the other hand, if you’ve requested special plate numbers mid-December, specifically between the 13th and 16th, expect to get ones with a new design. The same goes for those who register their cars for the first time after April 1st, 2026.
At the moment, there is no information as to when the non-private vehicle owners will have to replace their plates. But there will be a mandatory replacement, most likely in 2026.
How to get new license plates?
If you applied for new plates via Sooum between the 13th and 16th of December, you’ll receive the license plates with a new design. If not, you’ll have to wait until another phase starts.
What is a black number plate in Qatar?
A black number plate is used for private commercial transportation. You’ll usually see it on vans, minibuses, and pick-ups.
