Driving in Kuwait is a mix of excitement and challenge for an expat. Unique traffic customs, strict laws, and busy roads all call for an understanding of local traffic rules. This guide will give you a complete overview of Kuwait’s traffic regulations for a safe and stress-free driving experience in the country.
Introduction to Driving in Kuwait: What Expats Need to Know
Driving in a foreign country is never easy, especially with the traffic customs peculiar to that country and the busy roads of that country. You must understand their ways on and off the road, that is, the driving habits, road conditions, and traffic laws. Getting a license to drive in Kuwait is very important for expatriates; this must be done with the corresponding legal obligations such as making sure that the vehicles conform to local standards to avoid legalities in the future.
List of traffic fines in Kuwait according to the new law
The following list includes the most prominent traffic violations in Kuwait according to the new law:
- Causing an accident that harms individuals’ property: 50 KWD
- Causing an accident that harms public facilities: 50 KWD
- Changing some or all of the original plate numbers: 75 KWD
- Deliberately obstructing traffic on public roads: 50 KWD
- Delivering the vehicle to someone who does not have a valid driving license: 50 KWD
- Delivering the vehicle to someone without a driving license: 50 KWD
- Driving a motor bike without a driver’s license: 75 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle from which flammable materials leak To catch fire: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle from which materials harmful to public health leak: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle in violation of the permit conditions: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle that emits annoying sounds: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle that emits thick smoke or a bad smell: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle that has an accident that affects its balance: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle whose load scatters: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with a change in the color of the plates: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with a license that does not allow it to be driven: 75 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with a single plate: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with an expired permit: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with a change in the location of the plates: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with faulty brakes: 50 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with illegible number plates: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with unclear plates: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with unfit tires: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle with unusable brakes: 50 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle without a driver’s license: 75 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle without a permit required by law: 30 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle without brakes: 50 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle without its metal plates: 75 KWD
- Driving a motor vehicle without the knowledge of its owner or possessor: 30 KWD
- Driving a vehicle with forged plates: 75 KWD
- Driving a vehicle with plates not issued by traffic: 75 KWD
- Driving an unlicensed motor vehicle: 75 KWD
- Failure to present a driving license: 30 KWD
- Failure to present a permit required by law: 30 KWD
- Failure to present a vehicle operating license: 30 KWD
- Not stopping and informing the police if it causes an accident: 75 KWD
- Organizing a procession without a permit: 30 KWD
- Organizing gatherings without a permit: 30 KWD
- Proof of false data to obtain a license photo: 75 KWD
- Proof of false data to obtain a lost replacement: 75 KWD
- Proving false data to obtain a driving license: 75 KWD
- Proving false data to obtain a driving license: 75 KWD
- Proving false data to obtain a permit Education: 75 KWD
- Reckless driving and exposing the driver, passengers or others to danger: 75 KWD
- Transport vehicles violating the height conditions: 30 KWD
- Transport vehicles violating the load conditions: 30 KWD
- Transport vehicles violating the load length conditions: 30 KWD
- Transport vehicles violating the load weight conditions: 30 KWD
- Transport vehicles violating the load width conditions: 30 KWD
- Using a private car to transport passengers for a fee: 50 KWD
- Using lights other than those permitted by law: 30 KWD
- Using loudspeakers other than those permitted by law: 30 KWD
- Violating public morals: 75 KWD
- Violating the conditions of commercial plates: 75 KWD
- Violation of the conditions of temporary customs entry: 30 KWD
- Violation of the conditions of the gathering permit: 30 KWD
- Violation of the conditions of the procession permit: 30 KWD
- Working on roads without a permit from traffic: 75 KWD
Roundabouts in Kuwait: Navigating for Expats
Roundabouts are the most common roads in Kuwait, and driving through roundabouts requires extreme caution. Always yield other vehicles already inside the roundabout and use indicators when exiting. Always remain calm and avoid sharp changes of lane, thereby following the flow of traffic without having trouble and while lessening the chance of having accidents.
Safety-Seatbelts and Child Car Seat Laws of Kuwait Justice
Everyone in Kuwait is obliged to wear seat belts while seated in a vehicle: all persons travelling in a vehicle must wear their seat belts, while the children under the age of 10 must occupy the back seat, fitted with appropriate child restraints. This is very strict because it minimizes harm in injury should it occur. Hence, a good safety-child seat has to be installed in your car making you not only law-compliant but also safeguarding your family as to their physical well-being.
Parking Rules and Regulations in Kuwait
Parking in Kuwait is difficult, especially in busy areas. Park in designated places only to avoid incurring fines or to be towed. Avoid blocking driveways and parking in disabled spaces without permits. Expats can benefit from the Kuwait Traffic Violation Check by Civil ID service to know all the violations committed related to parking in the wrong place.
Driving Under Influence in Kuwait
Kuwait has put in place a strict zero tolerance policy concerning drunk driving or drugged driving. The following will happen should any person be caught under such an influence: They may be fined, imprisoned, or even deported. Expatriates may refrain from drinking and driving; in case they consider it, they must opt for alternative means of transportation.
Using Mobile Phones While Driving in Kuwait: What’s Allowed and What’s Not
The law prohibits driving while operating a hand-held mobile telephone in Kuwait. Only expatriates may use hands-free devices when talking on the phone. If caught texting or using the Internet, traffic fines may be imposed. Always remember: Safety first! Never let distractions take away your senses.
Tips to avoid traffic violations in Kuwait
The following list provides several tips to avoid traffic violations in Kuwait:
- Comply with speed restrictions: The fixed speed shall be observed especially in built-up areas (50-60 km/h) and on highways (80-120 km/h). Speeding fines are heavy and frequent violations. Monitor speed as appropriate for road conditions.
- Wear Seatbelts: Have all persons secured by seatbelt, even children under the age of ten in car seats. Failure to comply with the specific rule carries consequences. Anyone shall be fined and endanger lives.
- Avoid Use of Mobile Phones: It is illegal to carry out calls by holding mobile phones while on the steering wheel. Hands-free devices are only to be used for calls. Texting and browsing will only lead to unsafe driving and penalties.
- Park Legally: Park only in designated areas to avoid fines or towing. Never block driveways, disabled spaces, or emergency zones. If necessary, utilize paid parking zones for parking.
- Observe Traffic Signals: stop at red lights and obey traffic regulations. Running through red traffic lights is a serious offense that attracts a huge Kuwait Traffic Fine and suspension for one’s driver’s license.
- Give way to Pedestrians: Give way to pedestrians every time, including at crosswalks and intersections. Not doing so will end in punishment with the possibility of costing a life. Patience is key aside from school zones up to residential neighborhoods.
- Avoid illegal U-Turns: U-Turns are only permissible where there is a traffic sign stating so. Illegal U-turns are usually used by violators, and accidents and fines usually follow. Plan how you want to take your trip to avoid unnecessary maneuvers.
- Never Drive While Under an Influence: Penalty for alcohol or drug use in Kuwait is zero-tolerance when driving. Any offender is subjected to high fines, long jail terms, or even deportation. It is best to rely on alternative means of transport if needed.
- Always use indicators: Always signal when making lane changes or turns. If one fails to use indicators, it could confuse other drivers, leading to accidents or fines. Communication on the road is important and should be clear.
- Maintain Vehicle Records: Keep your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance intact and always available. You will be fined and may face unfortunate legal action, according to documents that prove otherwise, by driving illegally without proper papers. Check dates of expiration regularly.
Dealing with Traffic Violations in Kuwait: Fines and Penalties
Traffic violations are quite serious in Kuwait, and one can end up getting hefty fines and, in some cases, losing your driving license for unlawful driving, speeding, and running a red light. For such reasons, expats should verify infraction status through the online portal prior to settling the fine. Multiple offenses may lead to legal action, so you must always drive responsibly.
Conclusion
Driving as an expat in Kuwait need not be a frustrating experience. Following the traffic rules and some guidance contained in this guide can make your driving experience a safe and pleasant one. For in-depth advice regarding this and other topics, visit Kuwait How; it provides all the details that expatriates need.
