Guides / Driving
Renew your car registration (Istimara)
Insurance, Fahes inspection and the Metrash steps — done in an afternoon.
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
- Time
- 1 afternoon + up to 3 days delivery
- Fee
- QAR 100 for a private car
- Order
- Insurance → Fahes → Metrash
The Istimara is your vehicle registration card and must be renewed every year. You need two things in place first: a year of valid insurance and, for cars more than three years old, a passed Fahes technical inspection. After that, Metrash does the rest.
Before you start
- Your QID and current Istimara
- Plate number
- A credit or debit card
- Car in roadworthy condition for inspection (lights, tyres, wipers, no warning lights)
Step by step
Pass the Fahes inspection
Private cars are exempt for the first three years after registration. After that, book an annual inspection at a Fahes centre. If it fails, fix the issue and go back for a re-test.
Renew your insurance
Buy at least one year of cover (third-party is the legal minimum). Most insurers do this online in minutes.
Renew in Metrash
Go to Traffic → Vehicle Services → Renew Vehicle Registration. Enter the plate number and type. Metrash checks your insurance and Fahes status automatically.
Pay and choose delivery
Pay by card. Collect from a Traffic Department office or pay QAR 20 for Qatar Post delivery (usually within 3 working days).
Save the next date
Add your next renewal and insurance expiry to your reminders — insurance has no grace period.
What it costs
| Private car or motorbike | QAR 100 / year |
| Qatar Post delivery | QAR 20 |
| Lost Istimara replacement | QAR 100 |
| Fahes inspection & insurance | Separate, paid to providers |
Official fees at the time of review. Fees change, so confirm before paying.
Common mistakes
- Letting insurance lapse — there is no grace period, and driving uninsured is an offence.
- Going to Metrash before Fahes and insurance are done; the renewal won’t go through.
- Ignoring the expiry date — fines can apply after the grace period.
Official sources
Always check the official source before acting. QatarSteps is independent and not a government website.