How to Get a Saudi Driving License for Expats – Complete Guide



 Driving in Saudi Arabia can make life much easier, especially for expats living in cities where public transport is still developing. While ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are available, having your own driving license gives you the freedom to travel, commute to work, and explore the country at your own pace.

If you are an expat in Saudi Arabia, getting a Saudi driving license involves meeting certain eligibility criteria, completing the application process, and passing driving tests. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from requirements and documents to costs, training, and helpful tips.

1. Eligibility Criteria for Expats

Before applying for a driving license in Saudi Arabia, make sure you meet the basic requirements set by the General Directorate of Traffic (Muroor):

  • Minimum Age: 18 years for a private license, 21 for a public license.

  • Residency: You must have a valid Iqama (residency permit).

  • Medical Fitness: You need a medical test to confirm you are fit to drive.

  • Legal Status: No outstanding traffic fines or violations.

2. Types of Driving Licenses in Saudi Arabia

Expats can apply for different types of licenses depending on the type of vehicle they wish to drive:

  1. Private Driving License – For personal cars and light vehicles.

  2. Public Driving License – For those driving taxis, buses, or other commercial vehicles.

  3. Motorcycle License – For motorcycles and scooters.

  4. Heavy Vehicle License – For trucks and large commercial vehicles.

Most expats will need the private driving license unless they are working in transport or logistics.

3. Required Documents for Expats

To apply for a Saudi driving license, prepare the following documents:

  • Valid Iqama (original + copy)

  • Passport copy with visa page

  • 6 recent passport-sized photos (4×6 cm)

  • Medical test report (vision and blood test)

  • Copy of your existing driving license (if converting from another country)

  • Translation of your foreign driving license (if applicable)

  • Application form (available at Muroor or online via Absher)

4. Converting a Foreign Driving License

If you already hold a valid driving license from your home country, you may be able to convert it to a Saudi driving license without taking the full driving test.

Steps for License Conversion:

  1. Get your home country license translated into Arabic by an authorized translation office.

  2. Undergo the required medical test.

  3. Submit all documents to the Muroor office.

  4. Take a short driving test (sometimes waived for certain nationalities).

Note: Some countries have agreements with Saudi Arabia for direct license conversion, so check with the traffic department for the latest list.

5. The Driving Test Process for New Applicants

If you do not have a driving license from your home country, you must complete the full testing process.

Step 1 – Enroll in a Driving School
You’ll need to register at an authorized driving school in Saudi Arabia, such as:

  • Saudi Driving School (Riyadh)

  • Dallah Driving School (Jeddah, Dammam, Riyadh)

  • Princess Nourah University Driving School (for women in Riyadh)

Step 2 – Attend Theory Classes
The school will provide theory classes covering:

  • Saudi traffic rules and road signs

  • Driving ethics and safety

  • Accident prevention

Step 3 – Take the Theory Test
This is a computer-based exam with multiple-choice questions. It’s available in Arabic and English.

Step 4 – Driving Practice
You will receive practical lessons to prepare for the road test.

Step 5 – Road Test
The final step is a driving test where an examiner evaluates your skills in:

  • Parking

  • Lane changing

  • Road awareness and traffic sign response

  • Use of mirrors and signals

If you fail, you may need to take extra lessons before retaking the test.

6. Medical Test for Driving License

Every applicant must take a medical test at an approved clinic or hospital. The test usually includes:

  • Eye examination to check vision

  • Blood test to determine blood type and check health conditions

The results are sent electronically to the traffic department.

7. Driving License Fees in Saudi Arabia

Here are the typical costs for obtaining a Saudi driving license (subject to change):

  • Driving school training: SAR 450 – 750 (depending on hours)

  • Medical test: SAR 80 – 150

  • Issuance fees:

    • SAR 40 (1 year)

    • SAR 200 (5 years)

    • SAR 400 (10 years)

8. Tips for Expats Applying for a Saudi Driving License

  • Book early: Driving school slots can fill up quickly, especially for women.

  • Learn basic Arabic terms for traffic signs.

  • Practice parking before the test — many fail due to poor parking skills.

  • Keep digital copies of all documents in case they are needed again.

  • Pay traffic fines before applying — unpaid fines can delay your license.

9. Renewal of Saudi Driving License

Your Saudi driving license must be renewed before it expires. The renewal process can be done via Absher online and requires:

  • Payment of renewal fee

  • Updated medical test (if required)

  • No pending traffic violations

10. Driving in Saudi Arabia – Rules to Remember

Even after you get your license, make sure to follow Saudi traffic laws:

  • Always carry your driving license and Istimara (vehicle registration).

  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited.

  • Speed limits are strictly enforced with speed cameras.

  • Drunk driving is a serious offense with heavy penalties.

Related Guide:

By following this guide, expats can successfully get their Saudi driving license and enjoy the freedom of driving across the Kingdom. Whether you are commuting to work, taking a weekend trip to the desert, or exploring the country’s historical landmarks, a driving license is your ticket to convenience and independence in Saudi Arabia.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Life in Expat Compounds in Saudi Arabia: What Expats Need to Know (2025)

Image
Life in Expat Compounds in Saudi Arabia: What Expats Need to Know (2025) Saudi Arabia has long hosted a large expatriate community, and for many foreign residents, living in an expat compound offers comfort, convenience, and a familiar lifestyle. In 2025, expat compounds continue to play a significant role in helping newcomers adapt while maintaining certain freedoms and privacy. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about life in expat compounds — including what they are, who can live in them, amenities, pros and cons, costs, and comparisons with living outside compounds. What Is an Expat Compound? Expat compounds are gated residential communities specifically designed for foreigners living and working in Saudi Arabia. These compounds are often spacious, secure, and equipped with modern amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, shops, and even restaurants or cafes. They provide a culturally relaxed environment where expats can live more freely, often without the s...
Read more

How to Replace Your Foreign Driving License in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide)

Image
How to Replace Your Foreign Driving License in Saudi Arabia (2025 Guide) Meta Description: Need to swap your foreign driving license for a Saudi one? Learn the step-by-step process, required documents, fees, appointment booking, and where to go. Labels: Driving in Saudi Arabia, Expat Driving License, Absher, License Conversion, Saudi Traffic Rules Introduction If you’ve moved to Saudi Arabia from abroad and hold a valid foreign driving license, you can replace it with a Saudi one—no need to retake driving exams if your country is approved. Here's how to navigate the process smoothly in 2025. 📄 Documents You’ll Need Original foreign license + Arabic translation Four passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) Iqama (residency permit) copy + sponsor letter Copy of passport Completed official form (available at Moroor or online) Payment receipt (200 SAR for 5 years, or 400 SAR for 10 years) Medical check report (eye + blood test) The medical test must be done at...
Read more

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

Image
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 ...
Read more