Kuwait Lifts Ban on Delivery Company Vehicle Licenses with New Conditions

Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior, has issued a decision lifting the ban on issuing new licenses for motor vehicles to companies and institutions involved in goods transportation and consumer order delivery. This decision allows businesses to obtain new licenses, provided they meet specific conditions set by the General Traffic Department.

Replacement of Out-of-Service Vehicles

Companies and institutions currently operating in the delivery sector are permitted to replace out-of-service vehicles with new ones. This replacement must adhere to the guidelines established by the General Traffic Department, ensuring that the transition is in line with regulatory controls.

Conditions for New Delivery Licenses

To engage in consumer order delivery, companies and institutions must meet the following requirements:

1. Branch Location:

The company or institution must have at least one branch in a suitable location that does not obstruct traffic, as determined by the Traffic Engineering Department.

2. Vehicle Ownership Requirements:

• Companies must own a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 30 private light transport vehicles, each with a load capacity not exceeding 2 tons.
• After meeting the minimum vehicle requirement, up to 15 motorized bicycles may be added.

3. Vehicle Age Limits:

• Light Transport Vehicles: Must be less than 3 years old at the time of licensing and may be used for up to 7 years.
• Motorcycles: Must be less than 2 years old at the time of licensing and may be used for up to 4 years.

4. Vehicle Specifications:

• Vehicles must display yellow metal plates (Public) for this activity.
• Drivers must wear company-specific vests, with specifications determined by the Technical Inspection Department.
• Motorcycles must have lighting added to the attached box and reflective light strips on the rear.

5. Safety Requirements:

• Motorcycle drivers must wear fluorescent helmets as specified by the General Traffic Department.
• Motorcycles are prohibited from using ring roads and expressways.

Regulations for Existing Companies

Companies currently practicing delivery services may modify their vehicle types to align with their commercial activities upon the expiry of their operating license. These modifications must comply with the terms and conditions set forth by the General Traffic Department, which include considerations for vehicle lifespan, types, and the specific needs of the business.

Logistics Service Providers

Companies wishing to provide logistics services must also obtain approval from the General Traffic Department, adhering to the same rigorous terms and conditions applied to delivery service providers.