If you are living in Saudi Arabia and want to drive legally, obtaining a Saudi driving license is essential. The process has become much easier in recent years for both Saudi citizens and expatriates, including men and women.
This complete guide explains eligibility requirements, required documents, driving school training, tests, fees, and foreign license conversion in a clear and simple way.
Eligibility Requirements for a Saudi Driving License
Before applying, make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria:
- Minimum age 18 years for a private driving license
- Minimum age 21 years for a public driving license
- Valid Iqama for expatriates or National ID for Saudis
- Medically fit (eye test and general medical check required)
- No serious traffic or drug-related criminal record
Both men and women are eligible to apply under the same rules.
Required Documents
You will need the following documents when applying for a Saudi driving license:
- Original and copy of Iqama or National ID
- 6 passport-size photographs (as required by the driving school)
- Completed driving license application form
- Medical report (eye test + general medical test)
- Blood group certificate
- Existing foreign driving license (if applicable)
- Arabic translation of foreign license (if required and attested)
Make sure all documents are valid and up to date.
Registering at an Approved Driving School
Training must be completed at a Saudi Traffic-approved driving school. Some well-known driving schools include:
- Saudi Driving School (Riyadh)
- Dallah Driving School (multiple cities)
- Al Tamimi Driving School (Dammam)
Training Duration
- Beginners: Up to 30 hours of training (theory + practical)
- Experienced drivers / foreign license holders: Fewer hours after assessment
Theory Test (Computer-Based)
The theory test is conducted on a computer and covers:
- Saudi traffic laws and regulations
- Road signs and signals
- Safe driving techniques
- Accident prevention
- Emergency handling procedures
📌 To pass, you must not make more than 5 mistakes.
Practical Driving Test
After completing your training, you will take a road test supervised by an official examiner.
- During the test, you will be evaluated on:
- Vehicle control
- Parking skills
- U-turns and roundabouts
- Lane discipline
- Driving in traffic
Passing this test is mandatory to receive your license.
Converting a Foreign Driving License
If you already hold a valid driving license from another country, you may be eligible for direct conversion.
Steps:
- Book an appointment via Absher
- Visit the Saudi Driving License Portal (SDLP)
- Submit original documents
- Complete a medical test
- Take a short skills assessment
If approved, you may receive a Saudi driving license without full training.
Saudi Driving License Fees
The total cost depends on the type of license and training required:
- Medical test: SAR 100 – 300
- Driving school training: SAR 450 – 1350
- Computer theory test: SAR 100
- License issuance (10 years validity): SAR 400
Payments can be made online via SADAD or directly at the driving school.
Women Driving in Saudi Arabia
Since 2018, women are legally allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia.
The application process is exactly the same for women and men.
- Women-only driving schools are available in many cities
- Guardian approval is not mandatory
- Same eligibility rules and tests apply
If You Fail a Test
If you fail any test:
- You can rebook and retake the test
- Additional training may be required
- Extra fees apply for retests
Many applicants pass after one or two attempts.
Final Step: Receiving Your License
Once you pass all tests and complete payment, your Saudi driving license will be issued.You may receive it:
- From the driving school
- Through official collection points
- Or by courier delivery (in some cases)
Final Words
Getting a Saudi driving license is a structured and transparent process. By preparing your documents, completing training, and passing the tests, you can legally drive anywhere in the Kingdom.
This guide is intended to help Saudi residents and expatriates understand the official process clearly and avoid confusion.
