How to Get a Driving License in Saudi Arabia – A Complete Guide

Obtaining a driving license in Saudi Arabia can seem overwhelming, especially for expatriates and new residents.

But understanding the process can simplify your journey to get a driving license in Saudi Arabia.

This guide will walk you through the steps required to get a new driving license in KSA, ensuring that you have all the necessary information to navigate the requirements smoothly.

Why You Need a Saudi Driving License

Having a Saudi driving license is essential for legally operating a vehicle in the country.

It allows you to drive without fear of penalties and helps you navigate the roads more confidently.

For expatriates, converting an international license to a Saudi license is necessary for compliance with local laws.

Women drivers, particularly after the lifting of the ban in 2018, often seek guidance on how to get driving license in Saudi Arabia for ladies to enjoy greater freedom and independence.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you start the application process, ensure that you meet the following requirements:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Residency: You should hold a valid residency permit (Iqama) in Saudi Arabia.
• Medical Fitness: You need to undergo a medical examination to confirm that you are fit to drive.

Knowing how to get Saudi driving license is essential for compliance.

Understanding the Saudi driving license procedure can help streamline your application.

Types of Driving Licenses Categories Available in Saudi Arabia

Before you apply, it’s important to know the different categories of driving licenses available in Saudi Arabia.

Here are the main types:

• Private Driving License: For individuals who wish to drive personal vehicles.
• Public Driving License: Required for driving public transport vehicles, such as buses and taxis.
• Heavy Vehicle Driving License: For operating heavy vehicles, including trucks and construction machinery.
• Motorcycle Driving License: Specifically for those who want to ride motorcycles.
• Diplomatic Driving License: Issued to diplomats and officials of foreign embassies.

Know More: 8 Driving License Categories in Saudi Arabia

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather the following documents before starting your application:

• Valid Iqama: A copy of your residency permit.
• Passport: A copy of your passport, including the page with your visa.
• Medical Report: A medical report from an approved clinic.
• Photographs: 4 recently taken passport-sized photos (usually white background).
• Application Form: You can download the driving license application form pdf online from here and fill it out in Arabic. If you prefer assistance, you can pay SR 20 to an agent who can complete the form for you.
• Foreign Driving License (if applicable): If you hold a valid foreign or international driving license recognized by the relevant department in the Kingdom, you must provide a translation of your existing driving license in Arabic. Applicants with this documentation are exempted from the driving test.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

Once your documents are ready, you must pay the applicable fees for the driving license.

The total amount for a driving license is as follows:

Fee Breakdown

Fee Description	Amount (SR)
Driving License (10 years) – Should be paid before applying	400
Application Form Fee – paid to agent for filling the form	20
Computer Test Fee – Should be paid before attempting computer test.	100
Total Fee	520

Make sure to verify the current Driving license fees through the KSA’s Absher platform or directly at the driving school before making your payment.

Step 4: Complete a Medical Test

Before taking the driving test, you must undergo a medical test. Visit an authorized clinic or hospital to obtain a medical report.

This report will confirm your fitness to drive. Make sure to keep this report handy for your appointment.

Step 5: Register on the Absher Platform

Absher is the official online platform for various government services in Saudi Arabia.

To apply for your driving license in KSA, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Absher Website: Go to Absher.
2. Create an Account: If you do not have an account, register using your Iqama and other personal details.
3. Log In: Use your credentials to log in to your Absher account.

Step 6: Book an Appointment

Once you are logged into Absher, follow these steps to book your appointment for the driving school:

1. Select “Issuing a Driver’s License”: Navigate to the appropriate section.
2. Book an Appointment in a Driving School for Theoretical Testing: Choose a suitable date and time for your theoretical exam.
3. Receive Confirmation: Once your application is accepted, you will receive a message verifying your registration.

Detailed Guide on: How to Book a Driving License Appointment on Absher

Step 7: Complete the Required Theoretical Training

To get a driving license in Saudi Arabia, new drivers or those without a valid foreign driving license must complete theoretical training, supervised by the General Traffic Department.

This portion of the course focuses on understanding the rules of the road, traffic signs, and driving laws in Saudi Arabia.

The topics covered include:

• Road signs and their meanings.
• Right-of-way rules and when to yield.
• Safe driving practices in different conditions.
• Saudi traffic regulations and penalties for violations.

This training is mandatory before moving on to the practical training.

Related: Driving Rules and Traffic Laws in Saudi Arabia

Step 8: Complete the Required Practical Training

After successfully completing the theoretical training, you must then undergo practical training, which involves hands-on driving practice under the supervision of a licensed instructor.

The focus during this phase includes:

• Basic driving maneuvers such as parking, turning, and lane changes.
• Navigating Saudi roads, roundabouts, and highways.
• Understanding and responding to traffic signals and pedestrian crossings.

You must complete a set number of hours in practical driving training to gain the skills needed to drive safely and confidently on Saudi roads.

After finishing the practical training, you will be eligible to take the practical driving test.

If you have a valid driving license from your home country or any other country, you do not need to participate in training sessions and can directly go for the driving test and theoretical test. Make sure you have practiced enough get pass in first attempt. You can practice for the theoretical test here.

Step 9: Take the Driving Test

On the day of your appointment, be prepared for the driving test.

Here’s what to expect:

1. Arrive Early: Make sure to arrive at the testing center with all your documents.
2. Present Your Documents: Show your Iqama, medical report, driving school certificate, and passport photos.
3. Pass the Practical Driving Test: Demonstrate your driving skills in a controlled environment.

Step 10: Take the Computer Test

After successfully completing the practical test, you will take the computer test, which assesses your understanding of traffic rules and regulations.

Passing this test is the final requirement before you can receive your driving license.

Step 11: Receive Your Driving License

After passing the driving and computer tests, you can obtain your driving license.

Here’s what to do:

• Submit Your File: Take your application file to the designated counter at the licensing authority.
• Wait for Your Name to be Called: Within a few minutes, your name will be called.
• Collect Your License: Approach the window to collect your driving license.

Saudi Driving License Online Check

To check the status of your Saudi driving license online, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Absher Website: Open the Public Query Driving License section on the Absher platform.
2. Enter Required Information: Input your Iqama number and the date of birth of the driver.
3. Submit the Query: After entering the details, submit the query.

If the details of your driving license appear on the next page, it confirms that your license has been issued by the Saudi authorities and is authentic.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Practice Driving: If you are new to driving, practice as much as possible before taking your driving test.
• Familiarize Yourself with Local Laws: Understanding traffic laws in Saudi Arabia can help you pass your tests and drive safely.
• Stay Updated: Keep an eye on any changes in regulations or requirements by visiting official government websites. Stay informed about the Saudi driving license new rules to ensure compliance.

Conclusion

Getting a driving license in Saudi Arabia involves several steps, but with the right preparation and guidance, you can navigate the process with ease.

Ensure you have all the necessary documents, register on the Absher platform, and book your appointments timely.

By following these steps, you can achieve your goal of obtaining a Saudi driving license and enjoy the freedom of driving in Saudi Arabia.

Now that you are equipped with this knowledge, take action and start your journey towards obtaining your driving license. Safe driving!

Frequently Asked Questions – How to Get a Driving License in Saudi Arabia