Getting Driving License in Kuwait As an OFW: A Comprehensive Guide 2024

Traveling around Kuwait using public transportation is an efficient and convenient way to do it. But sometimes, as an expat you just miss the freedom of the open road. cruising the desert highways or zipping through the city with the wind in your hair must be an unforgettable experience while you’re here. Getting your driving license in Kuwait might seem daunting, but Kabayan, it’s totally doable. This blog is written to be your friendly guide in getting driver’s license in Kuwait. So, fasten your seatbelt because we’re about to take you on a smooth ride towards getting that Kuwaiti driver’s license in your hand.

Eligibility For Driving License in Kuwait

the key provisions of Ministerial Decree No. 1729/2005 regarding the issuance of driving licenses in Kuwait are:

1. Non-Kuwaiti applicants must have legally resided in Kuwait for at least 2 years prior to applying. 
2. Non-Kuwaiti applicants must have a monthly salary of not less than KD 600. 
3. Non-Kuwaiti applicants must hold a university degree. 

However, the search results also indicate that there are certain categories of non-Kuwaiti applicants who are exempted from the residency, salary, and education requirements, including:

• Non-Kuwaiti women married to Kuwaiti men (including widows and divorcees with children)
• Non-Kuwaiti men married to Kuwaiti women and have children
• Bedoun residents with valid security cards
• Students registered at Kuwaiti universities/institutions
• Members of diplomatic corps, sports federations, and government sectors
• Drivers and representatives with valid foreign licenses
• Domestic workers with 5+ years of experience
• Certain professionals like technicians, pilots, medical staff, etc

Required Documents

In getting a driver’s license in Kuwait, There are three main documents that are needed. In the following section, we will discuss how can we acquire these three necessary documents.

• Learner’s driving license
• Form for passing theoretical and practical tests
• Blood type certificate

Procedures

1. Visit the General Traffic Department: Head to the General Traffic Department located in the governorate you’re applying in. Locate the appropriate department or counter within the building.
2. Submit Required Documents: Obtain the necessary documents specific to your application and present them to the designated officer at the department. Ensure you have everything required beforehand to avoid delays.
3. Fill the Service Application Form: Once your documents are verified, request and meticulously fill out the service application form provided by the department. Double-check all information entered for accuracy.
4. Medical Check-up: Proceed to the designated area within the department or a nearby clinic for the mandatory medical examination. This typically involves basic vision and physical tests to assess your fitness to drive.
5. Pay the Fees Due: After completing the medical check-up, proceed to the cashier within the department to settle any outstanding fees associated with your application. Make sure you have the exact amount or sufficient funds to cover the costs.

How to get learner’s driving license?

Necessary documents

• Blood type certificate
• Sponsor’s original civil ID and a copy
• Written letter from the residence sponsor
• Copy of the passport
• Two (2) personal photos (4 × 6 cm) with blue background

Procedure

Step 1: Visit the General Traffic Department in the governorate you refer to and submit the required documents

Step 2: Fill the service application form

Step 3: Have the medical check up

Step 4: pay the fees due

How to get apply for theoretical and practical test?

1. Visit the General Traffic Department: Head to the General Traffic Department located in the governorate you’re applying in. Locate the appropriate department or counter within the building.
2. Submit Required Documents: Obtain the necessary documents specific to your application and present them to the designated officer at the department. Ensure you have everything required beforehand to avoid delays.
3. Fill the Service Application Form: Once your documents are verified, request and meticulously fill out the service application form provided by the department. Double-check all information entered for accuracy.
4. Medical Check-up: Proceed to the designated area within the department or a nearby clinic for the mandatory medical examination. This typically involves basic vision and physical tests to assess your fitness to drive.
5. Pay the Fees Due: After completing the medical check-up, proceed to the cashier within the department to settle any outstanding fees associated with your application. Make sure you have the exact amount or sufficient funds to cover the costs.

How to get a medical certificate?

1. Visit a Medical Facility:

• Go to a hospital, clinic, or blood bank offering blood testing services.
• Inform them you need a blood type certificate for your driver’s license application.

2. Blood Test:

• They will conduct a simple blood test to determine your blood type.

3. Certificate Issuance:

• Once the test is complete, you will receive an official blood type certificate from the medical facility.

Obtaining a driver’s license in Kuwait as an OFW can be a smooth process with proper planning and preparation. This guide has equipped you with the necessary information about the procedures, eligibility requirements, and documents needed. Remember, staying organized, double-checking deadlines, and being proactive in gathering documents will ensure a stress-free experience.

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