Getting an international driving license in Qatar allows you to drive in more than 150 countries legally and is officially recognized by the United Nations. The permit serves as an authorized translation of your Qatari driver’s license, making it easier for foreign authorities and car rental agencies to verify your credentials. Whether you’re planning a trip abroad, crossing to Oman, or renting a car locally, an IDP ensures you stay legally compliant and confident behind the wheel.

As mentioned, the IDP is an official translation of your valid Qatari driving license, recognized in over 150 countries, that allows you to drive legally abroad. Unlike a standard Qatari license, which is only valid within Qatar and some GCC countries, the IDP is designed for temporary international use and is not valid for driving in Qatar if you're a resident.

To qualify for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Qatar, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old at the time of application

• Be a Qatari citizen or resident with a valid Qatar ID (QID) or Residence Permit (RP)

• Hold a valid Qatari driving license

• Ensure your documents — including your passport — are up to date

Fees for an IDP in Qatar range from QAR 150 to QAR 250, depending on the validity period and where you apply. The Qatar Automobile and Touring Club (QATC) charges QAR 150 for in-person applications.

You can apply for your International Driving Permit (IDP) either in person or online, depending on what’s more convenient for you.

Apply in person at the Qatar Automobile and Touring Club (QATC)

You can apply for your International Driving Permit (IDP) in Qatar by visiting the Qatar Automobile and Touring Club (QATC) in person — located on C-Ring Road near the TV Roundabout in Doha. The office operates from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. To apply, bring all the required documents and be prepared to pay the QAR 150 fee in cash. The process is quick, with same-day issuance — it usually takes only a few minutes. For more information, you can contact QATC at +974 4441 3265.

Apply online through Asfary

If you opt for online processing, you can now also apply through Asfary. Here’s how the process works:

1. Go to the Asfary IDP page and select your preferred validity period for the permit

2. Proceed to booking and choose any add-ons you may need, such as door-to-door delivery, urgent processing, or Friday/Saturday release

3. On the booking information page, fill in your personal details, upload the required documents and complete your payment online using a debit or credit card — Asfary processes online applications for QAR 250

You’ll receive an email confirmation once your application is submitted. The processing time is usually 48 hours on working days. Asfary now issues electronically endorsed IDPs, which will be sent via email along with printing instructions.

The application fee is QAR 250 per license for a one-year validity. If you need help with your application, send an email to Asfary at support@asfary.com or call +974 5543 4313.

The Qatar-issued International Driving Permit (IDP) is valid in countries listed on the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. The one you need depends on the country/ countries you plan to visit.

The 1949 Geneva Convention is recognized in countries such as the United States, Japan, Canada, and Australia, while the 1968 Vienna Convention covers most European, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries.

Always check the specific driving requirements of your destination to make sure you’re carrying the correct IDP. Keep in mind that your IDP is strictly for international use and cannot be used inside Qatar.  

For more details, you can check the Qatar International Driving License valid countries list before your trip:

• Countries recognizing the 1949 IDP

• Countries recognizing the 1968 IDP

You will be required to present an International Driving Permit (IDP) whenever you plan to rent or drive a car abroad. Many countries — including the UAE, Oman, the United Kingdom, France, and the United States — require an IDP even if your local license is in English.

Driving abroad without one could result in fines, cancelled car rental agreements, or even travel insurance exclusions. Before you travel, it’s always wise to confirm the driving requirements of your destination and get covered with car insurance to prepare for your trip.