Car registration cards/certificates, also known as Istimara in Qatar, must be renewed yearly. The validity of vehicle registration is mentioned on the Istimara card, so every car owner should apply for renewal before that date. It’s best to set reminders to ensure the renewal date is not missed. Car owners who drive a vehicle with an expired Istimara will have to bear extensive penalties.
Istimara officially certifies that the vehicle in Qatar is registered with the relevant authorities. It also indicates that the vehicle meets the regulatory standards and is safe to drive on roads. The Istimara contains essential information about the vehicle, including its make, model, year of manufacture and owner’s details.
Furthermore, timely Istimara renewal in Qatar keeps the vehicle insurance valid. Hence, car owners remain eligible for coverage in case of damages and accidents.
Understanding the Istimara Renewal Process: Step-by-Step Guide to Renewal
Check the validity period of the Istimara to avoid last-minute hassle. Set reminders for it. Plan to renew Istimara at least a few weeks before the expiry date. Make sure all the required documents are ready and up-to-date. Visit the nearest typing centre in Qatar or apply for Istimara renewal online on the MOI website or the Metrash2 app (Android |iOS).
Documents Needed for Istimara Renewal
Here is the list of documents required for car registration renewal in Qatar:
- An original Istimara card should be provided at the time of renewal.
- A valid Qatari ID (QID) from the car owner is mandatory.
- Valid vehicle insurance documents are required for Istimara renewal. Make sure the insurance documents are up to date.
- Valid technical certificate issued by either Fahes or Woqod.
- Clear all outstanding traffic fines before car registration renewal in Qatar. Without clearing the fines, Istimara won’t be renewed.
Additional Documents (if applicable)
- Proof of Address: Documents like utility bills or a rental agreement may be required to confirm your residence in Qatar.
How to Renew Istimara Online in Qatar
There are three ways to renew Istimara in Qatar. We will discuss the process step by step below in detail:
Istimara Renewal Online via MOI Website
Step 1: Browse the MOI E-Services Portal
Visit the official Ministry of Interior (MOI) website and log in using your QID and password. If you have not created an account on the MOI e-services portal, do so and then log in to proceed.
Step 2: Select Traffic Services on the Portal
After logging in, select the Traffic Services option. Under this tab, you will find several vehicle-related services.
Step 3: Select Vehicle Licence
Now select the Vehicle Licence option or look for the label Renew Vehicle Licence. Click to start the car registration renewal process.
Step 4: Enter Details of the Vehicle
Enter your vehicle details, which may include the chassis number, licence plate number and other important details. Don’t forget to cross-check all the information you have entered to ensure accuracy.
Step 5: Pay the Istimara Renewal Fee
After you have entered all the details, proceed to the next step: Use your credit card to pay the Istimara renewal fee.
Step 6: Print the Temporary Car Registration Certificate
Once you have paid the renewal fee, you can then print a temporary Istimara from the website. A temporary Istimara remains valid for seven days. It can be used as proof till you get your original Istimara.
Step 7: Wait for the Official and Original Istimara Card
You will receive your new and original Istimara card on your doorstep after a few days. You can then use this card officially instead of the temporary document.
Istimara Renewal Online via Metrash2 App
The Metrash2 app is one of the reliable tools used in Qatar for managing different services as per government requirements. Similarly, Istimara renewal online in Qatar can be done through this app seamlessly. Here’s how you can renew Istimara online via this app:
Step 1: Download the App on Your Phone
First, download and install the app on your handheld device.
Step 2: Open the Metrash2 App and Login
Login on the app by entering your Qatar ID and password, if you have already registered on the app. However, if you are new, create your account on Metrash2 and proceed.
Step 3: Select Traffic Services
Once you are logged in, you can access the dashboard. On the dashboard, you can view different services. Search for the traffic icon and tap on it. You will then be directed to the vehicle-related services page.
Step 4: Choose Vehicle Services
On the vehicle-related services page, you can find Vehicle Services. Tap this option and proceed.
Step 5: Select Vehicle Registration Renewal Option
Look for Renew Vehicle Registration in the Vehicle Services section and tap to proceed.
Step 6: Enter Vehicle Details
Start entering the required details on the form. Provide the chassis number, licence plate number and other important details. Make sure the information you have entered is correct.
Step 7: Select the Duration of Renewal
Now, choose the duration of renewal for your Istimara. Usually, it should be one year or more, but it depends on you.
Step 8: Confirm Personal Information
Make sure the personal information, for instance, your contact details and Qatar ID are up to date and correct.
Step 9: Make the Payment
The next step is to make the payment using the payment option provided in the Metrash2 app. Follow the steps on the app and securely pay the Istimara renewal cost.
Step 10: Digital Istimara
Once the payment is made, you will receive a digital version of your new Istimara on the Metrash2 app. The digital copy will be proof that your car registration has been renewed in Qatar.
Step 11: Print Digital Copy (Optional)
The digital Istimara on the Metrash2 app is valid. However, you can print it if you want. You can use the printed version where the digital copy is not applicable.
Visit the Traffic Department to Renew Istimara In Qatar
Those who prefer renewing Istimara in person instead of online can head to the Traffic Department office in Qatar. The process is seamless. Here detailed are the steps:
Step 1: Select a Service Center
Look for the nearest service centre in Qatar for Istimara renewal. The official Qatar government website may have a list of all the service centres.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Before you visit the service centre or the Traffic Department in Qatar, prepare all the documents.
Step 3: Submit Documents
Head to the car registration renewal department at the service centre. Submit all the required documents to the authorised person. The authorised person will then ask a few questions and verify the submitted documents.
Step 4: Vehicle Inspection
If the vehicle requires inspection for issuing Istimara, you must have it done from an authorised centre. You will be provided with a list of vehicle inspection centres. You can visit Fahes inspection centres for a detailed vehicle check. The Fahes report helps renew the car registration quickly. Moreover, you can check out the following Fahes inspection centres in Qatar:
- Mazrooah
- Mesaimeer
- Wadi Al Banat
- Al Wakra
- Al Wukair
- Shahania
- Al Egda
- Industrial Area
- Al Shamal (Mobile Station)
Fahes timings are 06:00 am to 06:00 pm from Sunday to Thursday. That said, Mazrooah is open from Saturday to Thursday. Besides, the mobile station, Al Shamal Fahes timing is 07:00 am to 02:00 pm on Wednesday and Thursday. Not only that, the Mesaimeer, Wadi Al Banat and Al Wakra Fahes stations only allow appointments.
Step 5: Payment
Once the inspection is complete and all the documents are verified, you will have to pay the Istimara renewal fee. You can pay with a credit or debit card.
Step 6: Collect Your New Istimara
Once payment is made, you will receive a new Istimara. Make sure to verify the details on the Istimara card.
Istimara Renewal Cost
The Istimara renewal fee in Qatar varies. It depends on the vehicle type. Here is a breakdown of the Istimara renewal cost for one year according to the vehicle type:
- Private car: QAR 250
- Motorcycle: QAR 100
- Light vehicles: QAR 100
- Constructional, Agricultural and Industrial Vehicles: QAR 250
- Taxi car: QAR 200
- Private Transport Vehicle (BUS): QAR 150
The Istimara renewal fee listed above is detailed in the year 2023. Make sure to confirm the cost before you proceed with the car registration renewal in Qatar.
Benefits of Timely Istimara Renewal
- Timely Istimara renewal in Qatar helps avoid hefty fines and serious penalties.
- An updated Istimara indicates the vehicle on the road complies with Qatari traffic laws.
- Timely car registration renewal in Qatar can keep the vehicle insurance valid. Otherwise, an expired Istimara invalidates insurance. You can claim insurance coverage in case your vehicle gets damaged or an accident occurs.
- With an updated Istimara, you can have peace of mind regarding sudden fines or legal issues.
- Renewing Istimara ahead of time helps you avoid potential complications and stress.
Emergency Extensions and Waivers
Under certain circumstances, vehicle owners can apply for waivers and extensions:
- In case of an emergency, if you are unable to renew Istimara, you can file for a waiver or extension at the Traffic Department.
- Provide proof to the authority as to why you need an extension. For instance, travel restrictions or medical records.
- Based on the proof, a temporary extension will be provided. You will be granted an additional period to renew Istimara.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What Happens If I Miss the Renewal Deadline?
You may face fines and legal penalties if you don’t renew your Istimara before it becomes invalid.
- Can I Renew My Istimara Online?
Yes, you can renew your Istimara online through the MOI website or the Metrash2 app.
- How Many Days Before Can I Renew Istimara?
You can renew Istimara around 90 days before the validity date mentioned on the card. This will help you avoid the last-minute rush.
- Do I Need to Get My Vehicle Inspection Done Every Year?
Not necessarily. Newer vehicles may not require an annual inspection, but older vehicles typically do.
- What If I Lose My Istimara Card?
You can apply for a replacement at the Traffic Department. You will need to provide QID and other relevant documents.
- Can Someone Else Renew My Istimara for Me?
Yes, but they must have a power of attorney or written authorisation to do so on your behalf.
- What If My Traffic Fines Are Due?
Before going for Istimara renewal in Qatar, make sure to clear all unpaid traffic fines. In case of outstanding fines, the Istimara renewal process may be delayed further.
- How Much Fine Do I Have to Pay If I Don’t Renew Istimara?
The fine on an expired Istimara depends on the duration. If it has been expired for less than three months, the fine is QAR 500. If it has been expired for more than three months, the fine is QAR 1000.
Here, we conclude our step-by-step guide to renewing your car registration in Qatar. It is best to stay informed about the regulatory changes in the Istimara renewal process. In case you are unsure about anything, seek assistance from customer service representatives at the Traffic Department.
Renewing Istimara in Qatar is the responsibility of every vehicle owner. By understanding the process, gathering the necessary documents and ensuring your vehicle meets inspection standards, you can smoothly renew your car registration.
Timely renewal not only keeps you compliant with the law but also ensures your vehicle remains insured and roadworthy. Whether you choose to renew in person or online, timely renewal of Istimara helps you avoid fines, maintain continuous insurance coverage and enjoy peace of mind on the road.
