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Whether you are moving to Saudi Arabia with an existing driving license or need to get one from scratch, this guide covers everything you need to know. We explain when you can use your foreign license, how to exchange it for a Saudi one (with separate procedures for GCC and non-GCC nationals), and what it takes to pass the Saudi driving exam. All requirements, costs, and step-by-step instructions are included.
Saudi Arabia recognizes foreign driving licenses under specific conditions. Your ability to drive depends on where your license was issued and your residency status in the Kingdom.
GCC license holders enjoy the simplest process. You can exchange your license directly without taking any exams. The process is handled through the Muroor (traffic department) or via Absher online.
Ensure your Absher account is active and linked to your Iqama. Visit absher.sa to verify your profile.
Visit any approved medical center for a driving fitness test. Cost: ~100-200 SAR. Takes about 30 minutes.
Original GCC license, Iqama copy, passport copy, 2 passport-size photos (4x6 cm, white background), medical certificate.
Submit your application at the traffic department or through Absher online services. Pay the license fee (40 SAR for 2 years or 80 SAR for 5 years).
Processing takes 3-7 working days. You can track status via Absher. Your GCC license is returned to you.
Non-GCC license holders must exchange their license within 90 days of obtaining their Iqama. The process depends on whether Saudi Arabia recognizes your home country's license.
Licenses from these countries can be exchanged with only a theory and road test (no driving school required): USA, UK, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Ireland, Japan, South Korea, and most EU countries.
You will need to complete a full driving school program and pass both theory and practical exams. Required documents:
If you do not have a foreign license to exchange (or it cannot be exchanged), you can get a Saudi driving license from scratch. You will need a valid Iqama and an active Absher account. Here is the complete process:
Visit an approved medical center for a driving fitness examination. Tests include vision, color blindness, blood pressure, and general health. Cost: ~100-200 SAR. Takes about 30 minutes.
Register at a licensed driving school (e.g., Dallah Driving School, Saudi Driving School, or Jeddah Advanced Driving School). The course includes theory lessons and practical training. English instruction is available at most major schools. Cost: 1,500-3,000 SAR.
Attend theory classes covering Saudi traffic laws, road signs, safety procedures, and emergency response. The training typically takes 8-12 hours spread over several days.
Take the computer-based theory exam at the driving school. Available in Arabic and English. 20 multiple-choice questions; you need 14 correct (70%) to pass. Cost: ~75 SAR. Can retake after 3 days if failed.
Minimum 6 hours of practical driving training on the school circuit and public roads. Covers parking, lane discipline, intersections, roundabouts, and highway driving.
Take the practical driving exam. The test covers basic vehicle control, road driving, parking, and traffic sign compliance. Cost: ~75 SAR. Upon passing, your license application is processed.
After passing both exams, your Saudi driving license is issued within 5-7 working days. Track it via Absher. Choose between 2-year (40 SAR), 5-year (100 SAR), or 10-year (200 SAR) validity.
GCC driving licenses are valid in Saudi Arabia. For other foreign licenses, you can drive temporarily as a visitor (with an International Driving Permit), but as a resident you must obtain a Saudi driving license. Some countries have exchange agreements that simplify the process.
Getting a new Saudi driving license costs approximately 2,000-4,000 SAR in total. This includes the driving school course (1,500-3,000 SAR depending on the school), medical examination (about 100-200 SAR), computer-based theory test (75 SAR), practical driving test (75 SAR), and license issuance fee (40 SAR for a 2-year license or 80 SAR for a 5-year license).
Yes, the computer-based theory test is available in both Arabic and English at all driving schools and testing centers. The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions covering traffic signs, road safety, and Saudi traffic regulations. You need to score at least 70% (14 out of 20 correct answers) to pass.
The exchange process typically takes 1-2 weeks from submitting your documents through Absher or at the traffic department (Muroor). You will need to pass the computer-based theory test even for exchange. GCC license holders can often complete the process within a few days.
For license exchange from countries with agreements (US, UK, EU countries, Australia, etc.), you generally do not need to attend driving school but must pass the theory and road tests. For countries without agreements, you may need to complete the full driving school program. GCC license holders can exchange directly without exams.
You need a medical fitness certificate from an approved medical center. The exam checks your vision (minimum 6/12 in one eye), color blindness, blood pressure, and general health. If you wear glasses, this will be noted on your license. The medical certificate costs about 100-200 SAR and is valid for the duration of your license application.
No, you need a valid Iqama (residence permit) to apply for a Saudi driving license. Your Iqama must be valid and not expired. You also need an active Absher account linked to your Iqama. Visitors on tourist or business visas cannot obtain a Saudi driving license but can use an International Driving Permit.
Driving without a valid license in Saudi Arabia carries a fine of 500-900 SAR for the first offense. Your vehicle may be impounded for up to 30 days. Repeat offenders face higher fines and possible deportation for expats. Additionally, your insurance will be void in case of an accident, leaving you personally liable for damages.
Once you have your driving license sorted, learn about registering a vehicle in Saudi Arabia - whether buying new, used, or importing from abroad.