Key Takeaways
- Fines are steep and structured: Speeding starts from QAR 500, while red-light violations can go up to QAR 6,000 with black-point penalties.
- Black-point (demerit) system matters: Repeated violations accumulate points, which can lead to license suspension.
- Multiple ways to pay/check fines: Use the MOI portal, Metrash app, or visit a service center.
- Watch out for scams: There have been reports of fraudulent SMS/emails claiming to be from MOI. Always verify via the Metrash app or official site.
What’s New or Important for 2026
- While many fine amounts remain consistent with 2025, the MOI continues to enforce heavily, especially on red-light violations and reckless driving.
- The black-point threshold for serious consequences (like license suspension) remains a key risk for repeat offenders.
- Public discussion (e.g., on Reddit) signals growing concern over scam messages: fraudsters impersonate MOI, asking for payments via phishing links.
Major Traffic Violations & Fine Breakdown (2026)
Here’s a detailed look at common traffic violations, their fines, and associated demerit points based on MOI regulations:
Speeding Violations
| Violation | Fine (QAR) | Black Points |
|---|---|---|
| +10 km/h over limit | ~500 | 0 |
| +20 km/h | ~600 | 0 |
| +30 km/h | ~700 | 1 |
| +40 km/h | ~800 | 2 |
| +50 km/h | ~900 | 3 |
| +60 km/h or more | ~1,000 | 4 |
There are also non-speeding-related speed infractions:
- Sudden braking (not in an emergency): QAR 300
- Failing to adjust speed for road or weather conditions: QAR 300
- Driving too slowly and obstructing traffic: QAR 300–500
Red-Light & Signal Violations
- Running a red light (automatic/manual): Up to QAR 6,000 and 7 demerit points.
- Unlawful U-turn or left turn on red: QAR 2,000–4,000, ~4 points.
- Blocking an intersection: QAR 500–1,000, ~2 points.
Seatbelt, Distractions & Mobile Use
- Not wearing a seatbelt: QAR 500–1,000 depending on passenger/driver.
- Using a handheld mobile phone: QAR 1,000–3,000, plus up to 3 demerit points.
License, Parking & Other Offenses
- Driving without a valid license: QAR 3,000–6,000, ~5 points.
- Expired license: QAR 1,500, 0 points (per some sources).
- Suspended license: QAR 3,000, ~3 points.
- Illegal/unauthorized parking (incl. handicap zones, sidewalks): fines vary (e.g., parking on sidewalk = QAR 1,000, 6 points).
- Vehicle modification (tinting, noise, illegal parts): QAR 1,000+ depending on offense.
The Black-Point (Demerit) System
- Every violation not only costs you money but adds black-points to your driving record.
- Hit 24 points and you risk a 3-month license suspension.
- To reduce points, drivers can attend certified MOI traffic awareness courses.
How to Check and Pay Fines Online
1. Via MOI Portal
- Visit the MOI e-services portal.
- Navigate to Traffic Inquiries → Traffic Violations.
- Enter your QID, vehicle number, or license plate.
- View outstanding fines and details.
2. Via Metrash App
- Use the Metrash app (or Metrash2, depending on your version) to check traffic violations.
- In the app: go to Traffic Services → Violations → Inquiry.
- You can pay fines directly via the app.
3. In-Person or Other Methods
- Visit MOI service/traffic centers to inquire or pay.
- Payments may also be accepted at authorized centers or via Qatar Post, depending on MOI’s current procedures.
Avoiding & Contesting Fines
- Watch the speed: Radar fines are very strict — exceeding 60 km/h over the limit can lead to QAR 10,000 in some reports.
- Use seatbelts always.
- Never use your phone while driving — fines are steep.
- Check your fines quickly: Use Metrash or MOI portal as soon as you’re notified.
- Object when needed: Some fines can be disputed via Metrash.
- Be skeptical of SMS/email demands: There are active phishing scams targeting traffic fine payments.
What Happens if You Don’t Pay
- Travel restrictions: Unpaid fines may trigger issues when exiting or reentering Qatar.
- Vehicle registration renewal blocked: Your vehicle’s renewal (Istimara) may be refused if fines are outstanding
- License suspension: Accumulated black points can lead to temporary or permanent driving bans.
- Possible impoundment or court referral: For very serious violations.
Scam Alerts & Safety Tips
- There have been multiple reports of fraudulent SMS/emails claiming to be from MOI, asking drivers to pay via suspicious links.
- Real MOI communications should direct you to Metrash or the official .gov.qa portal — not random web links.
- If you’re unsure, open Metrash and check your violation history there, rather than clicking on external links.
Expert Analysis: What This Means for Drivers in 2026
- Stricter enforcement: The high fines and demerit points show MOI’s serious push on road safety.
- Financial risk is real: Repeated offenses can lead to thousands of riyals in fines + possible license suspension.
- Digital vigilance needed: With the rise of phishing scams, drivers must be extra careful about how they pay.
- Behavior change pays: Slow down, follow rules, and you’ll save not just money but your driving record.
FAQs
Q1: Is there a discount on traffic fines if paid early?
Yes — MOI has offered 50% discounts on certain fines if paid within a specific window, but this depends on the violation and MOI’s current campaigns.
Q2: How can I reduce or remove my black points?
You can attend MOI-approved traffic awareness courses, which may help reduce your points. Also, if you avoid violations for a period, your points may decrease.
Q3: What should I do if I think a fine was issued by mistake?
You can object via Metrash. Provide evidence (e.g., your eye-witness account or photos), and if MOI accepts, the fine may be dropped.
