Kuwait has the strictest licence rules in the Gulf. Here is who qualifies, which professions are exempt, and what it means if you are hired as a driver.
Kuwait has the toughest driving licence rules for expats in the Gulf. Many office workers can't get a licence at all. But drivers are hired every day, so how does it work? This guide explains.
The general rule for expats
Most expats need to meet all of these to apply for a licence:
- A salary of at least KWD 600 a month, as shown on the work permit
- A university degree
- At least 2 years of legal residence in Kuwait
Some professions are exempt from the salary and degree conditions, such as doctors, engineers, lawyers, university staff, diplomats and journalists.
What about people hired as drivers?
Professional drivers are a separate case. When you're recruited specifically as a driver (company driver, house driver, delivery driver, bus or truck driver), your job requires a licence, and the employer arranges it under your driver profession. That's why driver recruitment ads for Kuwait often say the licence is provided by the client.
Two things to know:
- The licence is tied to your job. Kuwait has withdrawn licences from expats who no longer meet the conditions, for example after changing to a non-driving profession. If you move to a different job title, check what happens to your licence first.
- Ask who pays. Driving school in Kuwait can cost a few hundred dinars. Ask whether the employer pays and whether anything will be deducted from your salary.
The process
- Book an appointment through the Ministry of Interior e-services or the Sahel app.
- Complete biometric (fingerprint) registration if you haven't already. Licence services are blocked until it's done.
- Attend driving school if you don't have a convertible licence. Courses typically take a few weeks.
- Pass the theory test (the pass mark is high, reported as 18 out of 20) and the road test.
- Pay the licence fee and collect your licence.
GCC licence holders
A GCC licence can make the process simpler, but conversion in Kuwait is still subject to the expat conditions and may need a road test. Confirm with the traffic department.
Find jobs in Kuwait
See driver jobs in Kuwait. House drivers should also read house driver salary and rights in Kuwait.
Common questions
Can I use my licence from another GCC country in Kuwait?
Visitors can use it for a limited time. Residents working as drivers need a Kuwaiti licence, and conversion depends on Kuwait's expat conditions.
My licence was withdrawn. What can I do?
Ask the traffic department why. Withdrawal usually follows a change in job title or salary. If you're back in a driver job, your employer can advise on reapplying.
How long is a Kuwaiti licence valid for expats?
Recent reports say expat licences are issued for a fixed period linked to residence, often 5 years. Check the current rule with the Ministry of Interior.
Do delivery riders need a special licence?
Yes. Motorcycle and delivery work need the matching licence class, and riders are hired through licensed delivery companies.
Kuwait's rules change often. Confirm the latest conditions with the Ministry of Interior before applying.
