TL; Dr.
- Exits in Kuwait can now re -release a physical driving license for KD 10 ($ 32.80 USD).
- The decision follows the 2025 policy change effective from April 13.
- Physical licenses are necessary to drive or rent a car abroad.
If you are a migrant in Kuwait and planning to travel abroad, you probably walk on a disappointing road: Digital Kuwaiti driving license is not always accepted outside the country. Whether you are trying to rent a car or require a valid ID while traveling, digital copy on your phone cannot be cut.But by April 2025, things have changed. The Ministry of Internal Ministry of Kuwait has restored the option for exits for obtaining a printed, physical driving license. This decision comes after more than a year of sanctions which made a criterion to the digital-cavalry license. Now, with a simple process and KD 10 fee ($ 32.80 USD), exites can once again carry a physical license, something that is actually recognized in most countries.Here is a clear, step-by-step guide on how to get.
Why did Kuwait close the printing license in the first place?
In the late 2023, the general traffic department of Kuwait transferred all types of driving license, including learner permits, rent service, instructor cards and individual licenses, only in a digital system. These were available through Moi (Ministry of Internal Ministry) and Kuwait Mobile ID apps.This step was to streamline government services and cut paperwork. But there was a major negative side in change: the digital license was not widely recognized outside Kuwait. Many expats found themselves unable to rent vehicles or drive abroad, even with a valid digital license.
New rule: What changed in April 2025?
In April 2025, after a ministerial decision by the Interior Ministry, the government restored the option to obtain a printed copy of its driving license for migrants.This change was officially published in Kuwait al -YouM Gazette, and it immediately came into effect. Now, for the KD 10 printing fee, you can request a physical license again.Note: Digital license is still fully valid for use inside Kuwait. If you are traveling abroad then the physical license is optional and mainly useful.
Step by step: How to get your physical license
- 1. Go to the right traffic department
Go to the traffic department (Murore) of the same government where your license was originally issued. It cannot be near your home. Be prepared for different waiting time, whether you are applying for a person, expat or any company.
- 2. Request and fill the application
Ask for the head and a rebirth form for the typing section. Typing service usually costs KD 1. You will need to bring:
- A copy of your civil ID
- A copy of your digital license (from Kuwait Mobile ID App)
- Your old physical license (if you still have)
- 3. Submit the form and pay the fee
Hand over the form filled at the designated counter. After this it was investigated and sealing:
- Pay KD 10 ($ 32.80 USD)
- If your old physical license is missing, expect to pay an additional KD 10 ($ 32.80 USD)
Once everything is approved and paid, go to the printing counter. Hand over your documents and wait for your name. Your new physical license will be printed and released on the same day, which depends on how busy the Center is.
Why you still need a physical license
A digital driving license inside Kuwait works well. This traffic is accepted for police, government offices and most identity needs.But outside Kuwait, it can be a different story. Many countries still expect a physical driver’s license when you rent a car or treat local authorities. Some car rental agencies and traffic officials cannot only accept digital licenses, especially if they are not familiar with Kuwait’s digital system.A printed license helps to avoid these issues. It also makes it easy to apply for an international driving permit (IDP), which usually requires a valid physical license as part of the application.In short, if you are planning to drive abroad, it is safe to carry a physical license with your IDP, just to ensure.
Fasting
1. Is it mandatory to get a physical license?If you only drive inside Kuwait, the digital license is still valid. But if you are traveling, it is safe to have a physical copy.2. How long does it take to print a physical license?Usually on the same day, if your documents are in order and there is not a large queue. But there may be a delay during peak hours.3. What if I lost my old physical license?You can still get a new new, but you will need to pay an additional KD 10. Bring all the available documents to support your request.
