Commercial Driver’s License
- 1/30If you want to apply for a heavy vehicle license
According to the Oman Highway Code, applicants for a heavy vehicle or mechanical equipment license must be 21 years or older, regardless of nationality.
When applying for a heavy vehicle learner permit
Before beginning heavy vehicle lessons, a learner permit is mandatory. Applications are made via the Royal Oman Police ROP portal and require a medical eye test.
If you are training at a driving school
Heavy vehicle training is only legal at ROP-authorized driving schools. Practice must be supervised until you obtain a full license.
When applying for a truck license
In Oman, it is not mandatory to already hold a light vehicle license when applying directly for a heavy vehicle license such as Group 4.
If your vehicle weighs over 10 tons
The ROP practical driving test must be taken in a vehicle that has a minimum empty weight of 10 tons, to qualify for a heavy license.
If you are applying for a bus driving license
In Oman, buses carrying more than 12 passengers fall under the heavy vehicle category. Drivers must pass road rule and practical tests in a qualifying passenger bus.
When applying for a Group 4 license
Group 4 is Oman license class for heavy-duty vehicles like trucks, articulated lorries, and buses. It requires specific training and practical testing in a heavy vehicle.
To operate mechanical equipment e.g., cranes
Operating mechanical or construction vehicles requires ROP-approved licensing, including safety and operational exams tailored to the specific vehicle or equipment type.
If you are transporting dangerous goods
Although Oman does not publish a separate hazmat license, drivers of fuel tankers or chemical carriers must be certified for handling hazardous materials and comply with Ministry of Transport safety protocols.
When applying for a public passenger vehicle license
Drivers of buses or passenger vans for public transport must undergo criminal background screening and medical fitness assessments as part of licensing.
If you are renewing a heavy vehicle license
Renewal of a Group 4 or public transport license may require a fresh medical fitness certificate, especially for older drivers or those with known health conditions.
If your license has expired for more than one year
According to ROP rules, licenses expired for over 12 months may not be renewed directly and you may be required to repeat theory and/or road tests.
When applying as a non-Omani resident
Non-Omanis can apply for heavy vehicle licenses if they have legal residency. The license is valid for 2 years and subject to the same testing and training standards.
If your license is suspended
Suspension for traffic offenses, health issues, or other legal reasons requires full resolution and often retesting before the license can be restored.
When testing for a heavy vehicle license
The ROP requires a computer-based road rules test and a practical driving test in a suitable vehicle truck or bus before issuing a heavy license.
To begin the heavy vehicle road test
No road test may be taken without a valid ROP-issued learner license. The test vehicle must match the category e.g., 10-ton truck or passenger bus.
If you fail the heavy vehicle test
There is no automatic retest. You must rebook through the ROP system and may need additional training hours before retesting.
When upgrading from light to heavy license
Oman does not permit automatic upgrades from light Class 5 to heavy vehicle categories. You must pass separate Group 4 tests.
If applying to drive buses during Hajj or tourism season
Drivers for seasonal or group tours must have a valid bus endorsement, experience, and medical clearance.
If your training is incomplete or outdated
Learners whose permits have lapsed or who fail to complete training within the validity period may need to repeat classroom and practical lessons.
If you are applying for a job with a transport company
Employers in Oman require drivers to have a current Group 4 license, clean record, and medical clearance before hiring.
When carrying hazardous loads
Driving fuel tankers, gas, or chemical trucks requires specialized safety training and adherence to Ministry of Transport and Environmental regulations.
When driving long distances with a heavy vehicle
Oman regulations recommend adequate rest periods for heavy vehicle operators. Fatigue is a major safety concern during long hauls.
If operating a vehicle with air brakes
Many heavy trucks use air brakes. You must understand system pressure, emergency brake operation, and how to check for leaks or failure.
When transporting passengers professionally
Drivers must hold a valid license class that authorizes carriage of passengers, whether in school buses, public buses, or tourism vehicles.
If you are taking a practical test in a truck or bus
The ROP examiner evaluates pre-trip inspection, mirror use, lane control, turning, reversing, and emergency braking.
When applying for license renewal
Heavy vehicle licenses must be renewed before expiry. A vision test and fee payment are required additional medical exams may apply.
If applying to drive articulated trucks
Licensing for trailers and articulated lorries requires demonstrating full control during turns, coupling, and reversing with a trailer.
If you are applying for Class 4 license
Class 4 or Group 4 is the official license for operating commercial vehicles over 10 tons and carrying goods or passengers.
When attending the road rules test
The ROP theory test includes questions on signs, laws, and vehicle operation. A passing score is required before moving to the driving exam.