Exciting News For Expats In Kuwait: Physical Driving Licenses Coming Soon !

A security source disclosed that the Ministry of Interior is considering allowing expatriates to obtain a physical driving license for a fee, estimated between 10 to 30 dinars. This initiative follows feedback received by the General Traffic Department regarding expatriates who, when leaving the country by land, face issues with their digital driving licenses in other Gulf and Arab countries. Traffic authorities in these countries often refuse to recognize the digital licenses from the “Kuwait Mobile ID” app, resulting in violations.

The source assured that the digital licenses on the “Kuwait Mobile ID” app will continue to be accepted by traffic and security patrols within Kuwait. The proposed fee for physical ID licenses is intended to cover the costs of raw materials, equipment, and inks needed for their production.

Additionally, the source emphasized that all expatriate licenses are issued for period of one year only. Even if a physical license option is implemented, it will remain valid for just one year. Kuwaiti citizens are urged to ensure their driving licenses are updated on the “Kuwait Mobile ID” app and remain valid, noting that the General Traffic Department revokes licenses from expatriates who change their work designation status, particularly those issued after 2013. The Ministry of Interior maintains a system that links with the workforce to manage this process.

It is noteworthy that while the Ministry of Interior issues physical driving licenses to Kuwaiti citizens, expatriates currently rely on digital licenses available through the “Kuwait Mobile ID” app. Both the driver’s license and vehicle registration book are verified through the app during inspection campaigns or when stopped by emergency, traffic, and security patrols.