Swap a GCC licence or learn from scratch: the Bahrain Traffic Directorate process, documents, eye test and fees.
Bahrain is small, but it has steady demand for company drivers, heavy drivers and house drivers. Here's how expats get a Bahraini driving licence.
Exchanging a GCC licence
If you hold a valid licence from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait or Oman, you can usually exchange it without a driving test.
- Book an appointment. Walk-ins generally aren't accepted. Appointments have been booked through the government's queue app for traffic services.
- Fill in the licence exchange form. You'll need your GCC licence's issue and expiry dates. Saudi licences use Hijri dates, so convert them to Gregorian before you go.
- Eye test at the Traffic Directorate (a small fee).
- Pay the licence fee and receive your Bahraini licence, often in under an hour.
Bring your passport, CPR (ID) card, residence permit, original licence and two photos.
Getting a new licence
If your licence can't be exchanged, you'll learn and test in Bahrain:
- Collect your learner licence and booklet.
- Complete the theory course.
- Take the required training hours with an approved instructor.
- Book and pass the driving test.
- Collect your licence.
Heavy and specialist licences
Heavy vehicles, HIAB cranes and tankers need the matching licence class. Employers recruiting heavy drivers from abroad usually arrange testing in Bahrain. Ask about it in your interview. Our specialist driver jobs guide explains what a HIAB driver does.
Find jobs in Bahrain
Browse driver jobs in Bahrain and heavy driver jobs in Bahrain.
Common questions
Can I exchange a licence from India or Pakistan?
Licences from outside the GCC usually can't be swapped directly. You'll follow the new licence route with training and a test.
How long does a GCC exchange take?
If your documents are complete and you have an appointment, the exchange can be done in about an hour on the day.
Do I need to convert Hijri dates?
Yes, if your licence is Saudi. Convert the issue and expiry dates to the Gregorian calendar before you fill in the form.
Can my employer book the test for me?
Many companies that recruit heavy drivers arrange training and tests with an approved instructor. Ask during your interview.
What documents should I always carry?
Carry your licence and CPR card whenever you drive. Police checks are common, and driving without your licence can lead to a fine.
Driving in Bahrain: what to expect
Bahrain's main roads are busy at rush hour, especially the causeway and the highways around Manama, Muharraq and Riffa. Professional drivers should learn the main industrial areas, such as Sitra, Salmabad and the Hidd and Askar zones, where most company and truck work is based. Speed and red light cameras are everywhere, and fines can be deducted from salaries under some company policies, so drive carefully.
Fees and procedures change. Confirm with Bahrain's General Directorate of Traffic before you go.
