How to Renew Your Istimara in Saudi Arabia

If you own a vehicle in Saudi Arabia, keeping your Istimara (vehicle registration card) valid is not just a legal requirement—it’s essential to avoid fines, traffic violations, and potential impoundment of your vehicle. In 2025, the renewal process has become more streamlined thanks to digital services like Absher, but there are still specific steps, fees, and requirements that every driver—whether local or expatriate—needs to know.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything about renewing your Istimara in Saudi Arabia, from required documents to online renewal, fees, and tips to avoid delays.

What is an Istimara?

The Istimara is your official Vehicle Registration Certificate in Saudi Arabia, issued by the Traffic Department (Moroor). It contains details such as:

Vehicle owner’s name
Vehicle type, model, and plate number
Chassis and engine numbers
Registration and expiry dates

Without a valid Istimara, you are not legally allowed to drive your car in the Kingdom.

When to Renew Your Istimara

The Istimara is valid for 3 years from the date of issuance or last renewal. You can check the expiry date by:

Looking at the card itself
Using the Absher app or website
Visiting the Moroor office

⚠️ Tip: Don’t wait until the last day to renew. Start the process at least a few weeks before expiry to avoid penalties.

Penalties for Expired Istimara

Driving with an expired Istimara can lead to:

Fines of up to SAR 100 per year of delay
Traffic violation points on your record
Potential vehicle impoundment for repeat offenses

Requirements for Istimara Renewal

Before starting the renewal process, you need to ensure:

Valid Vehicle Insurance – Your car must be covered under a valid insurance policy.
Valid Fahas (Vehicle Inspection) – A passed MVPI (Motor Vehicle Periodic Inspection) test is mandatory.
Paid Traffic Fines – All outstanding fines must be cleared.
Payment of Renewal Fee – Usually SAR 300 for a 3-year renewal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Renew Your Istimara Online via Absher

The easiest way to renew your Istimara is through the Absher platform.

Step 1 – Log in to Absher

Visit Absher.sa or open the mobile app.
Sign in using your Iqama number and password.
Complete the OTP verification.

Step 2 – Access Vehicle Services

From the dashboard, go to “E-Services”
Select “Vehicles”
Click “Renew Vehicle Registration”

Step 3 – Select Your Vehicle

The system will display all vehicles registered under your name.
Choose the one you want to renew.

Step 4 – Confirm Requirements

Ensure your Fahas, insurance, and traffic fines are all in order.
If not, renew insurance or pass Fahas before proceeding.

Step 5 – Pay the Renewal Fee

Pay through your bank’s SADAD payment service.
Keep the payment receipt for records.

Step 6 – Complete Renewal

Click “Renew” and wait for confirmation.
Your digital Istimara will be available in Absher immediately.

How to Collect Your Physical Istimara

Once renewed, you can either:

Keep the digital version in Absher (accepted by police checks)
Visit a Moroor office to get the printed card
Request delivery via Saudi Post (Wasel) for a small fee

Renewal via Moroor Office

If you prefer an in-person process:

Visit the nearest Traffic Department.
Submit your documents:
- Original Istimara
- Iqama or National ID
- Fahas certificate
- Valid insurance copy
- Fee payment receipt
Collect your renewed Istimara on the spot.

Cost of Istimara Renewal in Saudi Arabia

3-year renewal: SAR 300
Delivery via Saudi Post: Around SAR 20–30
Late renewal penalty: SAR 100/year

Common Issues and Solutions

Issue	Solution
Insurance not linked to Absher	Contact your insurance company to update data with Najm.
Fahas expired	Book MVPI test and pass before renewal.
Unpaid fines blocking renewal	Pay via SADAD or your bank app.
Error on Istimara details	Visit Moroor office for correction.

Tips for a Smooth Renewal

Link Insurance to Najm – Without this, Absher won’t process renewal.
Renew Fahas Early – Avoid last-minute inspection delays.
Check for Pending Fines – Clear them a week before renewal.
Keep Digital Copy – It’s legal proof in case you misplace your card.

Driving Without Valid Istimara – Risks

If you’re caught driving without a valid Istimara:

You risk fines, police confiscating your car, and insurance refusing accident claims.
In severe cases, your driving record can affect future license renewals.

Related Guides You Might Find Useful

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Conclusion

Renewing your Istimara in Saudi Arabia is a straightforward process if you prepare in advance—valid insurance, passed Fahas, and no unpaid fines are the keys to success. Whether you do it online via Absher or visit the Moroor office, staying on top of your vehicle registration ensures you remain compliant with Saudi traffic laws and avoid costly penalties.

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