First Day Abroad

Driving in Kuwait: licence, roads and tolls

Part of the Kuwait arrival guide.

This information may change. Always check the official source.Last verified: August 2026 by

Driving in Kuwait: the three basics

Drives on the
right

The driver sits on the left and overtakes on the left. Roundabouts turn anticlockwise.

Your licence
Licence plus an IDP

Your own licence works with an International Driving Permit beside it. Get the permit at home before you fly - no country issues one for another country's licence.

Motorways
Free

There is no motorway charge for a car.

Kuwaiti roads are free and wide, the driving is fast and undisciplined, and the alcohol rule is zero.

Free roads, fast traffic, and a zero alcohol rule with criminal penalties.

  • The alcohol limit is zero and alcohol is illegal in the country.
  • Roads are free and the network is a grid of six- and eight-lane highways.
  • Kuwait has one of the region's worst road safety records; tailgating and lane weaving at high speed are routine.
  • Speed cameras are fixed and frequent on the ring roads, with automatic fines.
  • Fuel is among the cheapest in the world, which is part of the explanation for everything above.
  • Parking in Kuwait City is scarce in the souk district and the malls absorb most of it, free of charge.
  • An International Driving Permit is expected alongside your own licence at every hire desk.
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Sources (1)

What this guide was checked against. Rules and prices change — follow the official link before you rely on a detail.