Iraq Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Iraq Driving Licence : Driving licences in Iraq are issued by the Traffic Police department under the Ministry of Interior. Here is an overview:

Types of Licences

  • Iraqi Driving Licence – For citizens and residents to drive in Iraq.
  • International Driving Permit – For foreign visitors to drive in Iraq along with their native licence.

Minimum Driving Age

Licence CategoryMinimum Age
Motorcycle18 years
Private Car18 years
Commercial Vehicle21 years

Licence Categories

  • Motorcycle
  • Private Car
  • Light Commercial Vehicle
  • Heavy Commercial Vehicle
  • Bus
  • Tractor

Licence Validity

  • 10 years for private car licences
  • 5 years for motorcycle and commercial vehicle licences

Obtaining a New Iraq Driving Licence

To get your first Iraqi driving licence:

Eligibility

You must:

  • Meet the minimum age requirement
  • Complete required training
  • Pass theory and practical exams
  • Submit medical report and application

Required Documents

  • Training completion certificates
  • Medical report
  • Exam pass certificates
  • Identity card
  • Passport photos

Steps

  1. Complete training courses for licence type.
  2. Obtain medical certificate from approved clinic.
  3. Pass theory test at testing center.
  4. Pass practical road test with inspector.
  5. Submit licence application and documents.
  6. New licence issued within 10 working days if approved.

Renewing an Iraq Driver’s Licence

Iraqi driving licences must be renewed before expiration:

Renewal Period

  • Private car licences expire after 10 years.
  • Commercial vehicle licences expire after 5 years.

Renewal Process

  • Submit renewal application before expiry.
  • Complete new medical report.
  • Provide updated photos.
  • Pay renewal fee.
  • New licence card will be issued.

Expired Licences

  • It is illegal to drive in Iraq with an expired licence.
  • Licences expired 2+ years require retaking all exams.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Iraq Licence

If your Iraqi driving licence is lost or stolen:

Reporting

  • File police report about the missing licence immediately.

Application

  • Apply for replacement at Traffic Police office with:
    • Police report copy
    • New medical report
    • ID and photos
    • Processing fees

Temporary Permit

  • You’ll receive a paper permit to drive for 30 days until new licence is issued.

Duplicate Licence

  • A duplicate plastic card will be printed with same details and validity period.

Changing Your Address on an Iraq Licence

When changing residence in Iraq, you must update your driving licence:

Notification

  • Notify Traffic Police of your new address within 15 days.

Application

  • Submit to Traffic Police office:
    • Application for address change
    • Proof of new address
    • Current driving licence
    • Applicable fee

Updated Licence

  • You will receive a reprinted licence card with your updated residential address.

Taking the Driving Exam for an Iraq Licence

To obtain an Iraqi driving licence, you must pass required exams:

Theory Test

  • Computer-based multiple choice test on road signs, traffic laws, fines.
  • Offered in Arabic, Kurdish, and Assyrian.
  • Passing score is 70%.

Practical Test

  • Assess actual driving skills on test route set by inspector.
  • Includes parking, lane changes, 3-point turns, stop signs.
  • Automatic failure for dangerous errors.
  • Pass results in licence approval.

Traffic Fines and Penalties in Iraq

Driving violations may result in fines, imprisonment, and licence suspension:

Common Offences and Fines

  • Speeding – Fines from 25,000 IQD
  • Running Red Light – 50,000 IQD
  • No Valid Licence – 100,000 IQD
  • Illegal Passing – 75,000 IQD

Serious Offences

  • Reckless Driving – 150,000 IQD fine and up to 1 year imprisonment
  • Drunk Driving – Licence suspension 1-3 years, prison time
  • Vehicular Manslaughter – Licence revocation and up to 15 years imprisonment

FAQs on Iraq Driving Licence

1. How do I convert my foreign licence to an Iraqi licence?

You will have to take the Iraqi driving exams and apply for a new licence. Licences are not simply transferred.

2. What vehicles can you drive with a private car licence?

An Iraqi private car licence covers passenger vehicles up to 9 seats and pickup trucks up to 3 tons capacity.

3. Is an International Driving Permit required for Iraq?

Yes, foreign visitors must obtain an IDP to legally drive in Iraq along with their home licence.

4. Can I get an Iraq licence without taking lessons?

No, completing accredited driving courses is compulsory before taking the licence exams.

5. Is my Iraqi licence valid in other Middle Eastern countries?

Iraqi licences may be valid in some countries under reciprocal agreements. Check locally for specific regulations.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding Iraq’s driver’s licensing rules and procedures is essential for legally and safely operating a vehicle. Following the proper application, renewal, and update processes will help maintain valid driving privileges.