MOI Kuwait Driver’s License Online, Process of Renewal
Whether you’re a long-time expat in Kuwait or a newly eligible citizen, having a valid Kuwaiti driving license is essential for daily life. From navigating your morning commute to weekend road trips across the Gulf, your license isn’t just a card; it’s your freedom on four wheels.
Who Can Get a Driving License in Kuwait?
Kuwaiti Citizens
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Must be 18+ for private license, 21+ for general/commercial
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No residency restrictions
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Must pass both theory and practical driving tests
Expatriate Residents
To apply for a driver’s license, most expats must:
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Be at least 18 years old
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Hold a valid Civil ID (Iqama)
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Meet salary or job-specific conditions:
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600+ KD salary, a university degree, and 2+ years of residence
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OR be exempt (e.g., doctors, engineers, drivers, diplomats)
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- Have a valid residency visa (Visa 18 or 22)
Documents Required (First-Time Application)
You’ll need the following:
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Copy of Civil ID
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Valid passport + residency page copy
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Passport-sized photos (white background, recent)
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Blood type certificate
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Medical fitness certificate (issued by a local clinic)
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Work permit (for expats under a sponsor)
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Degree certificate (if required for eligibility)
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Fee payment proof
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Driving License in Kuwait
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Create an account on the MOI portal – moi.gov.kw
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Choose ‘Driving License Services’
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Select ‘New License Application’
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Fill in your personal details and upload all required documents
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Book a date for the medical test and theory test
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Once passed, proceed to schedule your practical driving exam
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After passing both, submit your fee via K-Net
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Wait for final approval via SMS or email
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Collect your license from the traffic department
Renewing Your Kuwait Driving License Online
If your license is expiring, you can easily renew it via:
MOI Portal
- Go to https://www.moi.gov.kw
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Log in with your Civil ID
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Choose “License Renewal”
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Upload a new photo if needed
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Pay renewal fees through K-Net
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Submit and wait for confirmation
Sahel App (Mobile Option)
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Available for iOS & Android
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Log in using Mobile ID (هويتي)
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Offers alerts for license expiry and quick renewal
Fees & Validity (2025)
| License Type | Fee (KWD) | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Private License | 1.00 | 10 years (citizens) / 1 year (expats) |
| Commercial | Variable | 3–5 years |
| Motorcycle | 1.00 | 10 years |
Where to Collect Your License Card
Once approved, collect your card from any self-service kiosk across Kuwait:
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Avenues Mall
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Jabriya Co-op
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Farwaniya Traffic Department
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Marina Mall
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Al-Kout Mall
Bring:
Original Civil ID
Old driving license (for renewals)
Where Is the Kuwait Driving License Accepted?
Your Kuwait license is valid in several countries, including:
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GCC nations (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman)
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Some European countries (if accompanied by an International Driving Permit – IDP)
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UK, Malaysia, and Turkey allow short-term use of a valid Kuwait license
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
License blocked?
- You may have outstanding traffic violations. Check fines on the MOI portal.
Photo rejected?
- Use a high-resolution, white background image, taken within 6 months.
Profession changed?
- Update your Civil ID with PACI before renewing.
Payment failed?
- Use a supported K-Net card and try again.
Kuwait has made it incredibly efficient for both new applicants and current drivers to apply for or renew their licenses online. Thanks to digital portals like MOI and mobile apps like Sahel, the process has never been smoother.
Can I apply without a university degree as an expat?
Only if your job title is on the MOI exemption list (e.g., driver, nurse).
Can I renew my license early?
Yes, up to 30 days before expiry.
Can I drive in Saudi Arabia or UAE with my Kuwait license?
Yes, within GCC countries. Carry a physical card for safety.
What if my license is expired more than 6 months?
You may need to retake tests or visit a traffic department for reissuance.
