Foreigners in Saudi Arabia can drive using international licenses for up to one year, and those from 48 approved countries can convert their existing license directly. But if you’re not eligible for conversion, or staying longer than a year, you must apply for a new Saudi driving license. This guide walks you through the full process, from eligibility and paperwork to training, testing, and costs — with every detail you need to legally drive in the Kingdom.
Who can drive in Saudi Arabia?
Foreigners are permitted to drive in Saudi Arabia, but the rules depend on the type of license they hold and how long they intend to stay:
- International or foreign license holders:
You can legally drive in Saudi Arabia for up to one year from the date of your arrival, or until the license expires, whichever comes first. - Consequence of non-compliance:
Driving without a valid Saudi license or a recognized foreign license can result in legal penalties and fines. - Planning to stay longer?
If your stay exceeds one year or your foreign license is from a country not on the approved list, you must apply for a Saudi driving license.
License conversion vs. new license
Saudi Arabia has a two-path system depending on where your original license was issued:
Eligible for direct license conversion
If you hold a valid license from one of the 48 approved countries, you can convert it directly to a Saudi license without taking a driving test. However, you must still:
- Apply formally via Absher
- Submit official Arabic translation of your license
- Complete a medical check-up
- Provide necessary documents and identification
Approved countries for direct license conversion
| Region | Countries |
|---|---|
| Europe | Albania, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom |
| Asia-Pacific | Australia, China, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea |
| GCC & MENA | Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates |
| North America | Canada, United States |
| Africa | South Africa |
Not eligible for direct conversion? Apply as a new driver
If your home country is not on the approved list, you’ll need to apply as a new driver, which involves:
- Enrolling in a Saudi driving school
- Completing theoretical and practical driving tests
- Paying for training sessions, testing, and issuance fees
Step-by-step application process for a new Saudi driving license
If you’re a non-Saudi resident without an eligible foreign license, here’s a detailed breakdown of the application process:
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the following conditions:
- Age Requirement: Minimum age is 18 years
- Absher Account: Must have an activated Absher account
- Medical Test: Conducted at Efada-approved centers
- Photographs: Four passport-sized photos (4×6 cm)
- Documentation:
- Valid Iqama and passport
- Original foreign license (if any) with Arabic translation
- Sponsor’s letter or ID (from your employer)
- Appointment confirmation from Absher
Steps to obtain a new Saudi driving license
Step 1: Register on Absher PlatformCreate or log into your account on the Absher platform, and navigate to the “Driving License” section. Select “Issuing a Driver’s License.”Step 2: Book an appointment Still within Absher, book an appointment for the theoretical driving test at an authorized driving school. The test includes:
- Saudi traffic rules
- Road signs
- Driving etiquette
Note: Some valid international license holders may be exempt from the theoretical test, depending on the latest regulatory updates.Step 3: Submit Documents and Medical Report Complete your application by submitting:
- Required documents
- Medical examination report (Efada-approved)
- Confirmation of appointment
After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation via SMS or email detailing your test date and requirements.
Step 4: Training and Testing Attend your appointment at the driving school, where you will:
- Complete theoretical sessions (if required)
- Take practical driving lessons
- Undergo the official driving test (practical and/or written)
Tip: It’s essential to check if your country qualifies for exemptions to reduce the steps.Step 5: Check License Status Once the tests are completed and passed, you can track the status of your license on the Absher platform. You’ll be notified when your Saudi driving license is ready for pickup.
Fees for driving licenses in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Ministry of Interior has set a clear fee structure based on license type. Here’s a complete breakdown:
| No. | License type | Annual fee | Renewal fee | Lost/replacement fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Private Driving License | SR 40 | SR 40 | SR 100 |
| 2 | Public Driving License | SR 40 | SR 40 | SR 100 |
| 3 | Public Work License | SR 100 | SR 100 | SR 100 |
| 4 | Motorbike License | SR 20 | SR 20 | SR 100 |
| 5 | Temporary Driving License | SR 100 | — | SR 100 |
Source: Saudi Ministry of Interior
Rules & reminders for expats
- Legal Driving Age: Minimum is 18 years
- Women Can Drive: Since 2018, women are legally allowed to drive
- Insurance & Rentals: Most providers require a Saudi driving license
- Know the Rules: Traffic regulations in Saudi Arabia can differ significantly from your home country, understanding local road culture is crucial
If you’re a resident in Saudi Arabia and not eligible for a direct license conversion, getting a Saudi driving license is mandatory after one year. With the right steps, documentation, and preparation, the process is straightforward and essential for navigating life in the Kingdom.Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or official advice. While we strive for accuracy, some details may be incomplete or outdated. Regulations and procedures are subject to change. Readers are strongly advised to verify all information through official Saudi government sources and platforms such as Absher before making any decisions or applications.
