The minimum age for learning to drive is 18 years old for light vehicles and motorcycles, and 21 years to obtain a driver's license for heavy vehicles. Those who are applying for a driving licence for the first time should register with one of the Authorised Driving Schools (see below). To be able to take the test a learner must have had at least 15 hours of theoretical classes and a minimum of 35 hours of driving lessons. Expatriates who have a driver’s license from another country can exchange the license or complete half course of practical driving lessons, and this depends on the authority or country issuing the driver’s license. You can inquire about this through the driving schools in the State of Qatar. Most driving schools offer male and female instructors and the test may be taken in English or Arabic. A choice of manual or automatic transmission vehicles is available – check with the driving school for details. Please be aware that there are restrictions and conditions with an automatic transmission licence. The driving test comprises: Theoretical test –The test is about road signs and traffic regulations and its done on the computer. Parking (It consists of two sections, the first section is the reverse test, and the second section is the vehicle parking test). Road test You will take all parts of the test and will be informed at each stage whether you have passed or failed. If you fail one part of the test, you will not proceed to the next stage of the test. There is also a requirement to pass an eye test. A driving licence is issued immediately after successfully passing the road test. If you fail, the test you can retake it within a specified time frame without additional charge. Parts of the test that were successfully passed previously do not have to be retaken. Authorised Driving Schools You can register at one of themany government approved testing centres. Here are some of these centres: Dallah Driving Academy Gulf Driving School United Driving Company
