Official partner

International Driveving License in Bahrain




Bahrain has a highly developed transportation infrastructure. Major highways have specific names, while smaller streets are identified using only numbers. For tourists looking to rent a car, the process is straightforward, provided they have a valid national driver's license, are over 21 years old, and have at least one year of driving experience. Additionally, an international driver's license and a personalized credit card are mandatory. For individuals arriving in the country on a work visa, the international driver's license allows them to drive for 30 days from the date of arrival, after which they must obtain a local driver's license. The cost of renting a car ranges from 5 to 10 Bahraini dinars per day, and the deposit depends on the car's make and can be 50 dinars or more. There are many car rental companies operating in the country.


Penalty for not having an International Driving License in Bahrainย 


The fines for not having an International Driving License (IDL) can vary significantly from city to city and region to region, depending on specific violations and local laws. Typically, fines for not having an IDL range from tens to hundreds of dollars or the equivalent amount in the local currency.


Rules and Regulationsย 


  • Drive on the right side of the road.ย 

  • Seat belts must be securely fastened by both the driver and front-seat passengers while driving.ย 

  • Ensure that all passengers wear seat belts while the vehicle is in motion.ย 

  • Driving under the influence of alcohol is prohibited in Bahrain, with severe penalties for having even a small amount of alcohol in the blood.ย 

  • Eating, drinking, and smoking while driving are prohibited.ย 

  • Parking on the road is prohibited except in designated areas.ย 

  • Even when the traffic light is green, do not enter intersections with yellow markings if exits or turns are blocked due to traffic congestion.


Additional Informationย 


Always carry your driver's license with you. Keep in mind that having an International Driver's License (IDL) is mandatory when driving in Bahrain. In the event of a non-injury accident, immediately move your vehicle off the road and call the police. An accident report must be filed within 24 hours. If the accident leads to legal proceedings, you are not allowed to leave Bahrain until they are completed. Road signs are in both Arabic and English. Bahrain takes pride in its well-developed system of main roads with excellent street lighting.