How to get a Kuwaiti Driving License Step-by-Step Guide

Getting your driver’s license Kuwait might seem complicated, but it’s really just about following the steps. This guide will walk you through the entire process in plain language. Let’s get you on the road!

First, Can You Apply?

Before you start, make sure you:

Are at least 18 years old.
Have a valid Kuwaiti residency (your Iqama).
Are generally healthy (you’ll need a quick eye test).

Get Your Papers Ready

This is the most important step. You need to prepare a file with these documents:

Your original Civil ID and a copy.
Your original passport and a copy.
A No-Objection Letter (NOC) from your employer. This is a letter from your boss saying it’s okay for you to drive. It must be on company paper and stamped by the Chamber of Commerce.
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An eye test from any approved optical shop.
Two passport-sized photos with a blue background.

Helpful Tip: Get multiple copies of each paper. It’s better to have too many than not enough!

Sign Up at a Driving School

You can’t just take the test. You must go through a driving school first. The big ones are:

Kuwait International Driving School (KIDS)
PAAET Driving School

Take your document file to the school and sign up for lessons. If you’ve never driven before, you’ll need more lessons than someone who already knows how.

Take the Written Test

Before you can drive, you need to pass a test on the rules of the road. The school will give you a book to study. Pay attention in class and take practice tests online. This test is usually available in English and other languages.

Take Driving Lessons and The Driving Test

After you pass the written test, you’ll start your driving lessons. Your instructor will teach you what you need to know. When you’re ready, you’ll take the driving test. This involves:

Showing you can control the car.
Parallel parking (practice this!).
Driving on a special test track.

Get Your License!

Once you pass your driving test, the school will handle the paperwork. You’ll pay the fees, and soon after, you’ll receive your brand-new Kuwaiti driving license! It’s a small card that looks like your Civil ID.

Have a License from Another Country?

If you have a valid license from your home country, the process might be easier. You might not have to take the driving lessons or test, but you will almost certainly still need to take the written test. Ask the driving school about the rules for your specific country.

How Much Will It Cost?

Altogether, be prepared to spend between KD 150 and KD 400. This covers the school registration, all your lessons, the tests, and the fee for the license itself.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

How long does the whole thing take?
It can take 1 to 3 months. It depends on how busy the school is and how quickly you can pass your tests.

What if I fail the driving test?
It’s okay! Many people don’t pass the first time. You can take the test again, but you might have to pay for a few more practice lessons first.

Is the test in English?
Yes, the written test can be taken in English.

How long is my license good for?
For expats, the license is valid for as long as your residency (Iqama) is valid. When you renew your Iqama, you need to renew your license too.

Can I just use my home license?
If you are a tourist visiting, you can use an International Driving Permit. But if you live here, you need a Kuwaiti license.

Understanding how to get a Kuwaiti driving license is your first step. The process is straightforward once you know what to do.

Helpful Websites

Ministry of Interior (MOI): For official rules.
Kuwait International Driving School (KIDS): To learn about their programs.
PAAET Driving School: The other main school option.
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We hope this clear guide helps you finally understand how to get a Kuwaiti driving license. Good luck, and soon you’ll be driving all over Kuwait.

Related Resources and Websites

Ministry of Interior (MOI) – Kuwait: The primary source for all official rules and announcements.
Kuwait International Driving School (KIDS): One of the main approved driving institutes.
PAAET Driving School: The public authority’s driving institute.
Kuwait Chamber of Commerce: For attesting the No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer.

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