The number of expatriates seeking a motorbike licence has increased over the past few months, after many eateries have stopped using cars for home delivery services, say sources from driving schools.
The increasing popularity of motorbikes among Qatari and expatriate youth has also caused a rise in the demand for motorbike licence. To drive a motorbike a special licence is required and the procedures for obtaining a licence are more or less the same as other types of driving licences.
Omer Kabaloo, General Manager of Al Khebra Driving Academy, told The Peninsula that the number of trainees at the school obtaining a motorbike licence has increased by about 20 percent over the past few months, mainly because of increasing demand from delivery boys.
“Most of the restaurants have switched over to motorbikes instead of cars for food delivery. A full course for motorbike includes 10 theory classes and 25 practical classes and the fee is QR1,475. A trainee can avail four road tests. If a Qatari wants to get a motorbike licence, the registration formalities are simpler,” he added.
Kabaloo said a few European ladies have also obtained motorbike licence through the Academy. The procedures to register for the licence for an expat is the same as that of a car driving licence.
The required documents include a no objection letter from the employer, eye-test report, copy of applicant’s Qatari ID and four passport size photos. If the ID is not issued yet, a copy of the visa and the passport as well as the entry stamp in the passport are required, he explained.
An instructor at Al Khebra said motorbike training includes classroom instruction and a minimum of 8 hours on-cycle training. Helmets are also provided for those who do not have their own.
Theoretical training includes lessons on the challenge of motorcycling, motorcycle controls, rider and motorcycle preparation, basic riding skills, advanced turning and braking techniques, special riding situations and dangers of impaired riding.
Practical lessons include straight line riding, turning, shifting and stopping, advanced turning and braking techniques and collision avoidance manoeuvres.
Yousaf Khan, an employee at Dalla Driving Academy said the demand for motorbike licences have increased as compared to car driving licences.
“Most fast food outlets have replaced cars with motorbikes for door delivery. We are offering full courses as well as short courses,” he said.
He said eye test is available at the Academy from 7am to 12pm and from 3pm to 7pm every day except Friday.
