Kuwait cuts expat driving licence validity to 5 years in major overhaul

Dubai: Kuwait has reduced the validity period of driving licences for expatriates to five years, while maintaining a 15-year validity for Kuwaiti citizens and nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

The measure, announced in Interior Minister Decision No. 425 of 2025, represents one of the most significant changes to the country’s driving licence system in recent years.
Published in the Kuwaiti Official Gazette, the decision amends key provisions of Ministerial Resolution No. 76 of 1981, redefining the conditions under which licences are issued, renewed, and categorised. Those without proper documents, often referred to as Bidoons, will continue to receive licences that are valid only for the duration of their review cards.

Private licences
The new regulations provide a clearer framework for the classification of driving licences. Private licences are issued for vehicles carrying up to seven passengers, including small transport vehicles with a load capacity of no more than two tonnes, as well as taxis. These licences now follow the updated validity periods based on residency status.
General driving licences are divided into two categories. Category A applies to drivers of heavy transport vehicles carrying more than 25 passengers, public transportation vehicles, and trucks with a load capacity exceeding eight tons, including those used for hazardous material transport and driving instruction.

Category B covers vehicles that carry more than seven but fewer than 25 passengers and transport vehicles with a load capacity between two and eight tons. Drivers holding a Category B licence are not permitted to operate vehicles that fall under Category A.

Category A
Motorcycle licences have also been restructured under two categories. Category A covers all types of motorcycles, including those used for training and off-road instruction, while Category B is limited to motorcycles with three or more wheels. As with other licenses, validity periods are tied to the driver’s residency status.

In addition, new provisions have been introduced for those operating vehicles in specialised sectors. Construction, industrial, agricultural, and tractor vehicles now require dedicated licenses under the new framework, subject to the same validity rules.

The regulations also introduce a special activity licence for vehicles used exclusively in designated service activities. This licence is tied to the specific job function listed in the permit and is not valid for general road use. It becomes void if the holder changes profession or if their residency status in Kuwait is terminated.

The Ministry of Interior emphasised that while the application procedures and licensing fees remain unchanged, strict adherence to the new classifications and validity periods will be enforced. Previously issued licences will remain valid until their expiration date, after which renewals must comply with the new rules.

Kuwaiti authorities say the overhaul aims to enhance road safety, improve regulatory oversight, and align Kuwait’s transportation policies with international standards.