Types of Driving Licenses in Saudi Arabia: A Complete Guide for Expats and Residents

If you're planning to drive in Saudi Arabia, understanding the types of driving licenses available is crucial. The Kingdom offers several license categories, each designated for a specific type of vehicle and use—whether it's for private driving, commercial transport, or operating heavy machinery.

In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the various types of driving licenses in Saudi Arabia, who needs them, what vehicles they apply to, and how to apply—especially as an expat living or working in the country.

Why Understanding License Types Matters

Saudi Arabia has modernized its road infrastructure and driving regulations in recent years, making it easier and safer for residents—including expats—to drive. But driving without the correct license type can result in serious penalties, including fines, license suspension, or even deportation for expats.

Whether you're commuting in Riyadh, exploring Jeddah’s coastline, or working in the oil fields of the Eastern Province, the right license is your ticket to mobility.

1. Private Driving License

The Private Driving License is the most common license issued in the Kingdom.

Overview:

Purpose: Personal, non-commercial driving.
Vehicles Allowed: Private cars, SUVs, and light vehicles weighing less than 3,500 kg.
Minimum Age: 18 years.
Restrictions: Cannot be used for commercial transport or public service.
Validity: Usually 5 or 10 years, renewable.

This license is ideal for expats and residents who want to drive for personal or family use.

Internal link: Thinking of buying a car? Don’t miss our step-by-step guide on buying a car in Saudi Arabia as an expat.

2. Public Driving License

If you’re planning to drive professionally, especially to transport passengers or goods, you’ll need a Public Driving License.

Categories under Public License:

Public Taxi License: For drivers working with ride-hailing services like Uber or Careem.
Small Bus License: Typically for mini-buses transporting 8 to 15 passengers.
Large Bus License: For buses carrying more than 15 passengers.
Public-Private License: May apply to vehicles that are privately owned but used for public or commercial services.

Key Requirements:

Minimum Age: 20 years or above.
Experience: Driving history or previous license may be required.
Additional Tests: Drivers must often pass specialized exams for passenger safety and vehicle handling.

3. Heavy Equipment / Commercial Driving License

This license covers a range of heavy and industrial vehicles, including those used in construction, logistics, and transportation.

Vehicles Covered:

Heavy Trucks: Vehicles used for transporting large loads or commercial cargo.
Medium Trucks: Often grouped under this license depending on weight classification.
Heavy Equipment Vehicles: Bulldozers, cranes, excavators, forklifts, and similar machinery.

Requirements:

Minimum Age: Typically 20+ years.
Medical Exam: Often includes vision and physical fitness assessments.
Training: Must pass practical tests using heavy vehicles or equipment.

This license is essential for those working in sectors such as construction, oil and gas, logistics, or government infrastructure projects.

Internal link: Want to work in the construction or logistics industry? Check out jobs expats can do legally in Saudi Arabia.

4. Motorcycle Driving License

This license is mandatory for all motorcycle riders.

Key Details:

Minimum Age: 17 years.
Vehicles Covered: Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds.
Training: Must complete a motorcycle-specific driving course and pass both theory and practical tests.

Saudi Arabia has been witnessing a rise in motorcycle and scooter use, especially for delivery drivers.

5. Temporary Driving License (Learner's Permit)

The Temporary Driving License is for new drivers learning to operate a vehicle.

Overview:

Purpose: Allows learner drivers to practice under supervision.
Validity: Typically 1 year.
Requirements: Eye test, basic documentation, and enrollment in a certified driving school.
Restrictions: Cannot drive alone or at night; must be accompanied by a licensed adult.

This is the first step for anyone (local or expat) learning to drive in Saudi Arabia.

6. Diplomatic Driving License

This license is issued to foreign diplomats and embassy personnel residing in the Kingdom.

Features:

Eligibility: Only for diplomats and their immediate family members.
Vehicles Covered: Personal and embassy vehicles.
Exemptions: Often exempt from local fines and taxes under international agreements.

Other Specialized Categories

While the licenses above cover the main categories, there are some additional vehicle types recognized by the Saudi traffic authorities. These are typically covered under broader licenses but are worth mentioning:

Small Carriage Vehicle

May be used for either personal or commercial purposes.
Falls under private or public license depending on its usage.

Medium Truck

Typically included in the commercial/heavy license category.
May require specific training depending on its size and cargo.

Public-Private License

This hybrid category is not well-defined publicly.
It may refer to commercial vehicles that can also be used for private purposes.
Often regulated under public/commercial license rules.

How to Apply for a Saudi Driving License

For First-Time Applicants

Register with a certified driving school.
Submit required documents:
- Iqama (residency permit)
- Passport copy
- Photographs
- Medical report (vision, blood group)
Attend theory classes and pass the written exam.
Complete practical driving training.
Pass the road test.
Pay the license fee (based on validity period).

For Expats with Foreign Licenses

If you're from a country with a license conversion agreement (e.g., GCC, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, France), you may be eligible for a simplified conversion.

Steps include:
- Getting your current license translated and attested.
- Booking a license evaluation appointment.
- Passing an eye test and possibly a short driving test.
- Paying the license fee.

Internal link: Learn the exact steps to convert your foreign driving license in Saudi Arabia.

Driving License Validity & Renewal

Driving licenses in Saudi Arabia are typically issued for 5 or 10 years, depending on the chosen duration at application.

Renewal Requirements:

Valid Iqama.
Payment of renewal fee.
Medical check (if applicable).
No outstanding traffic fines.

You can renew your license online through Absher, the Saudi government’s e-service portal.

Internal link: Need help? Here’s how to renew your Saudi driving license via Absher.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Driving with an expired or incorrect license type.
Using a private license for commercial work (e.g., deliveries).
Failing to convert your foreign license within the allowed time frame.
Ignoring renewal or accumulated traffic fines (which can block renewal or Absher access).

Conclusion

Navigating the different types of driving licenses in Saudi Arabia is essential for all residents, especially expats. From private cars to public transport, motorcycles to construction vehicles—each category has its own rules and requirements.

Understanding the right license type ensures you stay compliant with Saudi traffic laws and avoid unnecessary trouble. Whether you’re applying for a new license or converting a foreign one, it’s worth taking the time to do it right.

For more insights about living and driving in the Kingdom, check out these useful articles:

Search This Blog

My Life in Saudi