Your Guide To Avoid Traffic Fines In Kuwait: Safe Driving Tips

Introduction to Kuwait Traffic Fines

When driving in Kuwait, you need to follow the rules to stay safe and keep traffic flowing smoothly. If you break these rules, you can get fined. Knowing the rules, how fines work, and safe driving advice can help you avoid fines and make the roads safer for everyone.

Understanding Traffic Violation Points in Kuwait

To help you understand the traffic violations better, we've gathered a list of common traffic offenses and the points each offense is worth:

  1. Speeding: Going too fast can cause a different number of points, depending on how fast you're over the limit. For instance, if you're 15-30 km/h over, you might get 2 points, but going over 30 can get you 4 points.
  2. Running Red Lights: Ignoring traffic lights is a big no-no. It can bump up your driving record with 3 points.
  3. Using Mobile Devices While Driving: Being on your phone while driving is dangerous and gets you 4 points.
  4. Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Driving drunk or high is very dangerous and can get you up to 10 points, plus you could face legal issues..
  5. Reckless Driving: Driving dangerously, like not leaving enough space for other drivers, can get you 6 points.
  6. Failure to Yield Right of Way: Not giving way to other road users or pedestrians counts as 2 points on your record. 
  7. Driving without a Valid License: Not having a valid driver's license or having one that's expired will get you 4 points.
  8. Using Old Cars: Driving old cars can lead to fines if they're not safe or don't meet emissions rules. Make sure all cars, whether you rent or own them, meet Kuwaiti regulations.

For more detailed information on traffic fines, refer to the Kuwait LocalKuwait TimesArab Times and Indians In Kuwait.

Traffic Violation Points Consequences

Getting a lot of traffic violation points can have big effects on a driver's life. This includes:

  1.  More Fines and Penalties: As you get more points, you'll have to pay more fines. How much you'll have to pay depends on how many points you have.
  2.  License Suspension: If you have too many points, your license might get suspended, which can make it hard for you to get around and do your day-to-day tasks.
  3. Costly Insurance: Insurers might see you as a higher risk and charge you more for insurance. 
  4. Probation Period: If you have too many points, you might need to be on probation, showing you're driving better.

For a detailed guide on the Traffic Violation Points Consequences, refer to Kuwait Services.

Are there any special requirements for driving a rental car in Kuwait?

Young man in a suit looking puzzled with multiple question marks drawn on a chalkboard behind him

To drive a rental car in Kuwait, you need a valid driver's license from your home country and an international driver's permit (IDP) is recommended. You must be at least 21 years old and have had your license for a year to rent a car. 

Drive on the right side of the road, stop completely at roundabouts, and wear seat belts. Hands-free systems are required for mobile phone use while driving. 

  • Always carry your license, registration, and insurance documents. 
  • Avoid parking against black and yellow curbs or on pavements. 
  • Domestic one-way car rentals are allowed, but not international ones.

For more driving tips and information, go to Rhinocarhire.comKhaleej Times and AutoEurope.

How to check and Pay Traffic fine?

You can easily find information on your traffic tickets on the Ministry of Interior's online site or the General Traffic Department of Kuwait's website. If you're a foreigner, you need to pay for your traffic fines using the Sahel mobile app or the Ministry of Interior's website.

Sahel app login screen in Arabic, showing the logo and fields for entering the civil ID number with a register button

Tips for Safe Driving in Kuwait

Driving safely in Kuwait is essential for avoiding fines and ensuring a smooth journey. Here are five top tips:

  • Observe Speed Limits: Stick to speed limits on roads like Gulf Road, Fahaheel Expressway, 6th Ring Road, Airport Road, and Jahra Road. Speeding is heavily monitored.
  • Use Hands-Free Devices: Use hands-free systems for phone calls to avoid fines and enhance safety. 
  • Wear Seatbelts: Ensure all passengers wear seatbelts at all times for safety and to avoid penalties.
  • Follow Traffic Signals: Respect traffic signals to avoid severe fines and ensure smooth traffic flow.
  • Park Legally: Always park in designated areas to avoid fines, especially in busy regions and major roads.

For more driving tips and information, go to the Gov.UK

Conclusion

To drive safely in Kuwait, know its traffic rules, fines, monitored zones, point system, and tips for safe driving. This helps make roads safer and avoids fines. Be aware to have a stress-free driving experience.

For more details, visit the Kuwait Police Traffic Fines page and keep updated with the latest traffic news on Kuwait TimesCurlytales and Fragomen

Note: Please refer to the official Government sources for the latest updates on penalties.