Getting a Driver’s License for Men and Women in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide)

Getting a Driver’s License for Men and Women in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide)

Meta Description: Learn how to get a Saudi driving license as an expat man or woman. Step-by-step guide for new drivers, license exchange, required documents, and tips.

Labels: Driving in Saudi Arabia, Expat Life Saudi Arabia, Women in Saudi Arabia, Transportation KSA, Legal Documents Saudi Arabia

Who Needs a Saudi Driving License?

All residents (men and women) who plan to drive in Saudi Arabia legally must have a valid Saudi driving license. International driving permits are only valid for short-term visitors. Expats with an Iqama are required to obtain a local license.

For Men: How to Apply for a Driving License

If you're an expat man living in Saudi Arabia and don't have a valid license from your home country, follow these steps:

  1. Create an Absher Account: Visit Absher.sa and create an account to manage your appointments.
  2. Medical Test: Complete the eye and blood tests at an approved clinic (approx. SAR 100–150).
  3. Book Appointment via Absher: Go to “Appointments > Traffic > Book New Appointment” and select “Apply for Driving License”.
  4. Enroll in a Driving School: Register at an authorized driving school like Dallah Driving School. Expect to take 6–30 hours of training.
  5. Written and Practical Tests: Pass the theory and road driving tests.
  6. Pay License Fees: Pay via SADAD online banking:
    • 2 Years – SAR 80
    • 5 Years – SAR 200
    • 10 Years – SAR 400
  7. Collect Your License: License is issued on the same day if successful.

For Women: How to Get a Saudi Driving License

Women in Saudi Arabia have had the legal right to drive since June 2018. The process is identical to men's but can be completed at women-only schools.

Popular Driving Schools for Women:

  • Saudi Driving School – Princess Noura University, Riyadh
  • Eastern Province Driving Academy – Dammam
  • Jeddah Advanced Driving School – Jeddah

Converting a Foreign Driver’s License

Expats with a valid foreign license can convert it. Here's how:

  • Translate license into Arabic (if needed)
  • Upload documents via the Saudi Driving License Portal
  • Book an appointment via Absher
  • Take a short road test (only for some countries)
  • Pay the license fee and collect your new Saudi license

Note: Citizens from the U.S., U.K., Canada, EU, South Korea, and Japan may be exempt from testing.

Required Documents Summary

DocumentRequired?
Valid Iqama✅ Yes
Passport Copy✅ Yes
Photos (6×4)✅ Yes
Medical Test✅ Yes
Eye Test✅ Yes
Foreign License (if applicable)✅ Yes
Arabic Translation✅ Yes
Absher Account✅ Yes

Driving License Fees in Saudi Arabia (2025)

  • 2 Years – SAR 80
  • 5 Years – SAR 200
  • 10 Years – SAR 400

Testing Centers by City

  • Riyadh: Dallah Driving School, Saudi Driving School
  • Jeddah: Jeddah Advanced Driving School
  • Dammam: Eastern Province Driving Academy
  • Makkah & Madinah: Regional driving institutes

Tips for a Smooth Process

  • Ensure your Iqama is valid
  • Book appointments early via Absher
  • Practice Saudi road signs and traffic rules
  • Use women-only schools if preferred (for female applicants)
  • Pay fees via SADAD through your bank

Related Articles:

Final Thoughts

Getting a driving license in Saudi Arabia is straightforward when you know the steps. With the right documents and a bit of preparation, both men and women expats can legally drive and enjoy the freedom of the road.

Need help with housing or cars? Read: How to Find an Apartment in Saudi Arabia

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