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General terms and conditions

Foreign Vehicle Stay in Kuwait (Up to 3 Months)

A car registered abroad can stay in Kuwait for up to three months if it keeps a valid license and legal plates from its country and carries the required insurance.

If you need more time, the GDT asks you to visit the traffic department before the end of the 3 months. Moving permanently? See New vehicle registration.

Conditions

  1. Keep the vehicle licensed in its home country with a valid license and legal plates throughout its stay.
  2. Hold the insurance document the GDT requires for these vehicles.
  3. Do not exceed 3 months. If you must stay longer, visit the traffic department before the 3 months end.
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Source: Based on the official GDT procedure page:Click here.

Compiled October 2026. Rules and offices can change: confirm with the GDT before you go. This site is not affiliated with the government.

Frequently asked questions

How long can a foreign car stay in Kuwait?

Up to 3 months, according to the GDT.

What if I need to stay longer?

Visit the traffic department before the 3-month period ends.

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Vehicles

New vehicle registration

New and imported vehicles are registered by the GDT after a customs certificate, a technical inspection and valid insurance.

Read the guide Vehicles

Import temporary plate

Temporary customs plates cover two cases: vehicles in transit (48 hours) and individually imported vehicles without plates (one week).

Read the guide Vehicles

Renewal when outside Kuwait

A vehicle that was abroad when its registration came due can still be renewed on time: you just need proof it was out of the country.

Read the guide Vehicles

General registration terms

A new vehicle or motorcycle license is valid for 3 years in Kuwait, and the GDT sets a short window to renew it after expiry.

Read the guide Vehicles

Commercial plate registration

Commercial plates are issued after you submit the form and attach four documents proving who you are and that your business is registered.

Read the guide Vehicles

Commercial vehicle usage

Commercial plates come with a license exemption for vehicle manufacturers, traders, importers and repairers, but only for specific purposes.

Read the guide

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