A driver’s license can be issued in Bahrain to legally drive on the Kingdom’s roads. This is done by meeting several requirements set forth in the country’s traffic law. These requirements vary depending on the type of driver’s license being issued.
Bahrain Driving License Requirements 2025
Below you can learn about Bahrain Driving License Requirements 2025:
| Type of driving license to be obtained | Requirements |
| General requirements for issuing a driver’s learning license | - A temporary learning driving license is valid for one year from the date of issuance, with the possibility of extension upon submission of a request within the period stipulated in the Traffic Law.
- A learner’s driving licence expires when it expires without being renewed or when the holder obtains a new driving licence.
- Reaching the legal age according to the type of license the beneficiary wants to obtain, provided that it is reduced for a period of six (6) months.
- Passing the theoretical test conducted by the General Traffic Department.
- Proof that the applicant for the license is free from disabilities that would render him unable to drive.
- If an applicant for a temporary learner’s driving licence passes the vision test and meets all the requirements for obtaining the licence, the Traffic Department must issue the licence on the form designated for this purpose after paying the prescribed fees.
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| Requirements for issuing a driving license for a private car | - Submitting the form for a private car driving license.
- The applicant must be at least 18 years old and more than six months older.
- A valid residence permit is required for non-Bahrainis wishing to obtain a driver’s learning license.
- Provide the following documents:
- Proof of the license applicant’s identity, place of residence, and age.
- Criminal record certificate of the license applicant, if applicable.
- Receipt of payment of the required fees according to the type of license required.
- Proof of valid legal residence for the resident.
- Pay the required fees for the driver’s license.
- Providing any other conditions that the General Traffic Department deems necessary depending on the type of vehicle.
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| Requirements for issuing a driver’s license for a private transport vehicle | - Submitting the form for a private car driving license.
- The applicant must not be older than 40 years, and the applicant must not be younger than 21 years by more than six months.
- A valid residence permit is required for non-Bahrainis wishing to obtain a driver’s learning license.
- Having a private car driving license that is more than five (5) years old.
- Provide the following documents:
- Proof of the license applicant’s identity, place of residence, and age.
- Criminal record certificate of the license applicant, if applicable.
- Receipt of payment of the required fees according to the type of license required.
- Proof of valid legal residence for the resident.
- A private car driving license previously issued to the license applicant.
- Pay the required fees for the driver’s license.
- Providing any other conditions that the General Traffic Department deems necessary depending on the type of vehicle.
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| Requirements for issuing a driver’s license for a private vehicle | - Submitting the form for a private car driving license.
- The applicant must not be older than 40 years, and the applicant must not be younger than 21 years by more than six months.
- Having a private car driving license that is more than five (5) years old.
- A valid residence permit is required for non-Bahrainis wishing to obtain a driver’s learning license.
- Provide the following documents:
- Proof of the license applicant’s identity, place of residence, and age.
- Criminal record certificate of the license applicant, if applicable.
- Receipt of payment of the required fees according to the type of license required.
- Proof of valid legal residence for the resident.
- A private car driving license previously issued to the license applicant.
- Pay the required fees for the driver’s license.
- Providing any other conditions that the General Traffic Department deems necessary depending on the type of vehicle.
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| Requirements for issuing a learning license for a motorcycle | - Submitting the form for a private car driving license.
- The applicant must be at least 18 years old and more than six months older.
- A valid residence permit is required for non-Bahrainis wishing to obtain a driver’s learning license.
- Provide the following documents:
- Proof of the license applicant’s identity, place of residence, and age.
- Criminal record certificate of the license applicant, if applicable.
- Receipt of payment of the required fees according to the type of license required.
- Proof of valid legal residence for the resident.
- Pay the required fees for the driver’s license.
- Providing any other conditions that the General Traffic Department deems necessary depending on the type of vehicle.
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Validity period of Bahrain Driving License
The validity period of the Bahraini driving license is only one year, and it must be renewed at least one month before its expiry period in order for its holder to be able to drive legally on the roads of the Kingdom.
Conclusion
A driving license is a necessary document for anyone, whether Bahraini or not, to drive in the Kingdom of Bahrain. It is also worth noting that an international driving license can be issued, which allows driving while visiting another country outside of Bahrain, provided the person has a valid driving license within Bahrain.
Can a driving license be replaced in Bahrain?
Yes, you can issue a replacement driver's license through the website of the General Traffic Directorate in Bahrain.
What are the conditions for replacing a driving license in Bahrain?
The requirements for replacing a driver's license in Bahrain are to provide the Bahraini citizen's personal ID card, provide a personal photo of the applicant, provide the damaged driver's license in the case of a replacement license, and pay the license replacement fees.
Is age a necessary condition to obtain a driving license in Bahrain?
Yes, age is a basic requirement for issuing a driver's license in Bahrain. The minimum age is determined according to the type of driver's license the customer wishes to obtain.
How much are the fees for replacing a damaged driving license for a driving instruction license - for teachers and trainers - valid for one year?
The fee for replacing a damaged driving license for teachers and trainers, valid for one year, is 15 Bahraini dinars.
What are the requirements for issuing an international driving license in Bahrain?
The requirements for issuing an international driving license in Bahrain include providing a valid driving license, a valid Bahraini ID card, a personal photo of the service recipient, and payment of the fees for issuing the international driving license.
