How to Convert Your Foreign Driver’s License in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide)

How to Convert Your Foreign Driver’s License in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide)

Meta Description: Want to drive in Saudi Arabia? Learn how to convert your foreign driver’s license in 2025. Step-by-step guide for expats, document requirements, and fees.

Labels: Driving in Saudi Arabia, Expat License Conversion, Saudi Traffic Rules, Iqama Guide, Life in Saudi Arabia, Expat Tips

Introduction

If you're an expat living in Saudi Arabia and want to drive legally, converting your foreign driver’s license is a smart move. The good news is that the Kingdom has streamlined the process in recent years, especially for residents with licenses from certain countries. In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through the process, eligibility, documents, fees, and tips to help you hit the road smoothly.

Who Can Convert a Foreign Driver’s License in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia allows certain nationalities to convert their valid driver’s licenses without taking a driving test. These include:

  • USA
  • UK
  • Canada
  • EU countries
  • South Korea
  • Japan

For other nationalities, you may need to undergo a driving test before receiving a Saudi license.

For those new to driving in the Kingdom, check out our detailed post: Getting a Driver’s License for Men and Women in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide).

Requirements to Convert a Driver’s License

Here are the basic requirements for converting your license:

  • Valid Iqama (residency permit)
  • Original foreign driver’s license (must be valid)
  • Official translation of the license (Arabic)
  • Medical test report
  • Absher account
  • Muqeem medical report upload
  • Two passport-sized photos

Step-by-Step Process to Convert Your License

  1. Get Your License Translated: Have your foreign driver’s license translated into Arabic by an approved translation office.
  2. Do a Medical Test: Visit an authorized clinic for an eye and blood test. The clinic will upload your results directly to the traffic department’s system.
  3. Register on Absher: Create an Absher account if you haven’t already. This is essential for booking your appointment.
  4. Upload Your Documents: Go to the Saudi Driving License Portal (SDLP) and upload:
    • Scanned Iqama
    • License + Arabic translation
    • Photos
  5. Book an Appointment: After uploading documents, book a license conversion appointment through Absher under “Appointments” > “Traffic” > “Book Appointment.”
  6. Visit the Moroor Office: On the day of your appointment, bring all originals and visit the traffic police office (Moroor). If eligible, you'll receive your Saudi license the same day.

Fees for License Conversion

Here’s an estimate of the fees involved (as of 2025):

  • Translation: SAR 50–100
  • Medical Test: SAR 100–150
  • License Fee (10 years): SAR 400

What If You’re Not Eligible for Direct Conversion?

If your license is not from an approved country or expired, you’ll need to register at a driving school and take a theory and practical test. The process includes:

  • Attending a driving school (e.g., Saudi Driving School or Dallah Driving School)
  • Passing the computer theory test
  • Taking the practical driving test
  • Paying applicable training and exam fees

License Validity

Saudi driving licenses are typically valid for:

  • 2 years: SAR 80
  • 5 years: SAR 200
  • 10 years: SAR 400

Women Expats Can Also Drive

Since 2018, women are legally allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia. Whether you are a female teacher, nurse, or working professional, you can now enjoy the independence of having your own car.

Read our full post on the process: International Schools in Saudi Arabia: A Guide for Expat Parents (2025)

Tips to Make the Process Smoother

  • Have multiple photocopies of all documents ready.
  • Arrive early for your Moroor appointment—lines can get long.
  • Double-check your Absher for appointment confirmation.
  • Use a folder to keep all documents organized.

Driving in KSA: What to Expect

Driving in Saudi Arabia can be quite different depending on the city. Roads are wide, gas is cheap, and infrastructure is modern. However, new expats should take time to adjust to local driving behavior and rules.

Conclusion

Converting your foreign driver’s license in Saudi Arabia is now easier than ever, especially if you come from an eligible country. With the right documents and preparation, you can be on the road legally within a week. This process not only gives you greater independence but also opens up access to the country’s amazing road trips, shopping, and weekend getaways.

For more expat advice, browse our latest posts on My Life in Saudi.

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