Law No. 67/1976 on Traffic and its amendments regulate vehicular movement, vehicle registration, and driver licensing in Kuwait. It aims to protect the lives of road users and ensure traffic safety.
Table of Contents
Driver's License Types
- Private license: For driving private vehicles (most common)
- Public license: For driving taxis and public transport
- Professional license: For heavy transport vehicles and trucks
- Motorcycle license: For motorcycles
- Learner's permit: For training under a licensed supervisor
- International license: For visitors and tourists per agreements
License Requirements
- Age: 18 for private license, 21 for public license
- Medical fitness: Passing a medical examination (especially vision)
- Theory test: Passing the traffic rules examination
- Practical test: Passing the driving test
- Training: Completing required hours at an accredited driving school
- Residency: Valid residency permit for non-Kuwaitis
Traffic Violations & Penalties
Serious Violations
- Exceeding speed limit by more than 40 km/h
- Running a red light
- Driving against traffic
- Reckless driving and stunts
- Driving without a license
General Violations
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Using a phone while driving
- Parking in prohibited areas
- Not carrying driver's license
- Expired vehicle inspection
Traffic Points System
- Minor violations: 1–3 points
- Moderate violations: 4–6 points
- Serious violations: 7–12 points
- Reaching 14 points within a year: 3-month license suspension
- Repeat offenses: doubled suspension period
- Points are cleared after one violation-free year
License Suspension & Revocation
- Accumulating points above the permitted threshold
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Causing a serious accident through negligence
- Committing a serious violation warranting suspension by law
- Medical unfitness to drive
Vehicle Impoundment
- Impounded for driving without a license
- Impounded for reckless driving or dangerous stunts
- Impounded for repeated serious violations
- Impoundment period: one week to six months
- The vehicle owner bears impoundment and storage fees
Driving Under the Influence
- Driving any vehicle under the influence of intoxicants or drugs is prohibited
- Penalty: imprisonment, fine, and license revocation
- Penalties are doubled if it results in an accident
- Traffic officers may conduct immediate testing upon suspicion
- Refusing the test is treated as evidence of impaired driving
Challenging Violations
- Filing a grievance with the Traffic Department within the specified period
- Presenting evidence disproving the violation
- Appealing to the competent court if the grievance is rejected
- Requesting to view camera footage in automated detection cases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fine for running a red light?
Running a red light carries one of the highest traffic fines per recent amendments, with points recorded on the license. Repeat offenses or causing an accident may lead to imprisonment.
Can I drive with an international license?
Yes, visitors may drive with a valid international license for a limited period. After that, residents must obtain a Kuwaiti license.
What should I do if my license is suspended?
Stop driving immediately and apply to the Traffic Department to learn the reason and duration. You may challenge the suspension before the court if you believe it is unjustified.
Traffic Cases & Violations
Traffic violations can lead to license suspension or imprisonment. Attorney Meshari Obaid Al-Enezi — Yumnaak Law Firm — handles traffic case defense and violation challenges. Contact us.
Disclaimer: This article is for legal education purposes only and does not substitute professional legal advice. Laws and judicial interpretations are subject to change.
