Kuwait Introduces New Driving License Rule

The Kuwait government has revised the driving license regulations, amending certain provisions. The new gazette publication clarifies the conditions and requirements that must be met, as well as the documents necessary to obtain a valid driving license.

As per the new rule, GCC nationals and residents of Kuwait can acquire a 15-year driving license, while expats can obtain a 5-year driving license.

General driving  license are categorized as follows:

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Category A covers vehicles with more than 25 passengers, public transport vehicles, trailers and hazardous material carriers. The driving license will be valid for 15 years for Kuwaitis and GCC citizens, meanwhile for expats, the license will be valid for five years.

Category B covers vehicles carrying between 7 and less than 25 passengers and transport vehicles up to eight tons. Similar validity periods apply.

However, it is to be noted that a person holding a general driving license in Category B cannot drive vehicles permitted under category A.

A similar categorization exists for motorcycle drivers as well:

Category A licenses are issued for all types of motorcycles while Category B licenses are issued to three or more wheels. The validity for both categories is 15 years for Kuwaitis and GCC citizens and five years for expats.

Holders of licenses for construction, industrial, agricultural, or tractor vehicles can obtain 15-year validity if they are Kuwaitis or GCC citizens, and five years if they are expats.

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For Kuwaitis holding special activity driving licenses, issued for driving vehicles designated for service activities, the validity remains 15 years for Kuwaitis and GCC citizens and five years for expats. However, the license will be canceled if the holder changes their profession or if their residency status is revoked.

Procedure to Acquire a Driving License Under the New Rules:

• Print the application for obtaining a driving license.

• Once the application is approved, obtain a medical fitness certificate.

• Complete the medical examination and determine the blood type, after which a driving education permit is issued by the licensing department.

• Schedule an appointment for the driving test through the Ministry of Interior website.

• After passing both the theoretical and practical tests, complete the procedures for obtaining the final driving license at the licensing department.