How to Get a Driver’s License in Saudi Arabia: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting your Saudi Arabia driving license isn’t just a formality but your ticket to independence. Whether you’re eager to explore the Kingdom or a long-time resident finally deciding to drive, the process can seem intimidating if you don’t know where to start. The forms, the medical checks, the tests — it’s a lot to think about!

However, here’s the good news: once you understand the exact steps, it becomes much simpler. Think of it like following a GPS route; as long as you know the turns in advance, you’ll reach your destination without unnecessary detours.

In this guide, we’ll walk through each stage of getting a Saudi driving license, from preparing your documents to passing your final road test. Along the way, we’ll point out common mistakes people make, so you can avoid delays and get your Saudi Arabia license faster.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you even think about booking an appointment or filling out a form, you need to make sure you’re actually eligible to apply for a Saudi Arabia driving license. This first step might sound simple, but it can save you a lot of time and hassle later on.

For residents:

• You must be at least 18 years old for a private license.
  
  
• You need a valid Iqama (residency permit).
  
  
• If you already hold a foreign license, you may qualify for a simpler process.
  
  

For Saudi nationals:

• You must meet the same minimum age requirement.
  
  
• A national ID card is required instead of an Iqama.

Here’s a helpful tip: if you already have a license from another GCC country, there’s a good chance you can swap it for a Saudi license without going through the full driving test routine. That’s a major shortcut worth checking before you prepare for lessons or written exams.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Before you head to the driving school or licensing office, make sure you’ve got your paperwork sorted. Nothing’s worse than standing in line, only to be told you’re missing a crucial document.

Here’s what you’ll typically need for a Saudi driving license application:

• A copy of your Iqama or national ID – this is your primary proof of identity.
  
  
• Passport copy – required for expatriates.
  
  
• Six passport-size photos (4×6 cm) – make sure they meet the official size and background requirements.
  
  
• A filled-out application form – you can usually get this from driving schools or download it online.
  
  
• Your existing driving license (if any) – plus an Arabic translation if your license is in another language.
  
  
• Blood type information – often included in your medical test report.

Tip: Keeping all these documents together in a small folder can save you from last-minute stress and make the submission process a lot smoother.

Step 3: Get the Medical Examination
Before moving forward with your Saudi Arabia driving license application, you’ll need to complete a medical examination at an approved clinic or hospital. This is a standard requirement designed to ensure you’re fit to drive.

The test typically includes a few basic checks:

• eyesight will be examined to confirm you can see clearly on the road
• blood pressure will be measured
• overall health condition will be assessed

Once done, the clinic or hospital sends your results electronically to the traffic department, so there’s no extra paperwork for you to submit. Skipping this step isn’t an option; without it, your application simply can’t proceed.

Step 4: Register at an Approved Driving School

In Saudi Arabia, driving schools are where you learn both theory and practical skills. Some of the well-known ones include:

• Saudi Driving School (Riyadh)
  
  
• Dallah Driving School (multiple cities)
  
  
• Saudi Driving Academy (for women in Riyadh)

When you register, you’ll choose between:

• Full course — for complete beginners.
  
  
• Reduced course — for those with prior driving experience or a foreign license.

Your Saudi Arabia driving license process officially starts here, with scheduled theory classes that teach you the rules, signs, and safe driving practices you’ll need on the road.

Alongside these, you’ll begin hands-on driving lessons with an instructor, giving you practical experience in handling the vehicle.

Step 5: Complete the Theory Classes

Before you get behind the wheel, you need to understand the rules of the road in Saudi Arabia. Theory classes at driving schools usually cover:

• Traffic laws specific to the Kingdom.
  
  
• Road signs and their meanings.
  
  
• Defensive driving techniques.
  
  
• Safe driving habits in different weather conditions (sandstorms, rain, fog).
  
  
• The importance of seat belts and speed limits.
  
  

Most schools provide both in-person and online options, but attendance is usually mandatory. These sessions prepare you for the theory test, which is a key step in getting your Saudi driving license.

Step 6: Pass the Theory Test

The theory test is computer-based and available in multiple languages, making it easier for non-Arabic speakers. It typically includes:

• Multiple-choice questions on traffic laws.
  
  
• Road sign identification.
  
  
• Situational judgment questions (e.g., what to do in certain driving scenarios).

Tip: Practicing with mock exams before the real thing can dramatically increase your score. This is where resources like SaudiDrivers.com can help. We offer Saudi driving license practice tests that match the actual exam format.

Step 7: Practical Training

After passing the theory test, you’ll move on to practical training. The number of hours depends on your driving experience:

• Beginner drivers — Around 30 hours of training.
  
  
• Experienced drivers — Reduced hours, sometimes as few as 10–15, after an assessment.

Training includes:

• Basic car controls (starting, stopping, gear shifting).
  
  
• Parking (parallel, angle, and reverse parking).
  
  
• Lane changing and highway driving.
  
  
• Emergency braking.

Instructors often simulate real-world traffic situations so you’re ready for anything once you have your Saudi Arabia driving license.

Step 8: Take the Road Test

The final hurdle is the road test, which evaluates your ability to apply what you’ve learned. It usually has two parts:

1. Practical maneuvering test — Checking your parking, turning, and reversing skills.
   
   
2. On-road driving test — Driving on actual roads under examiner supervision.

Common reasons for failure include:

• Forgetting to use mirrors before lane changes.
  
  
• Not stopping completely at stop signs.
  
  
• Driving too slowly and holding up traffic.

If you fail, you can retake the test after additional training.

Step 9: Complete Final Paperwork and Pay Fees

Once you’ve passed your road test, you’ll need to finalize your application before receiving your Saudi Arabia driving license. This involves:

1. Paying the license issuance fee —
   
   

• 2-year license: Around SAR 80
  
  
• 5-year license: Around SAR 200
  
  
• 10-year license: Around SAR 400
  
  

1. Confirming your personal details — Make sure your name, nationality, and Iqama or national ID number are correct in the system.
   
   
2. Submitting all final documents
   
   

• Test completion certificate from the driving school.
  
  
• Proof of payment for the license fee.

Step 10: Collect Your License

In many driving schools, you can collect your Saudi driving license immediately after payment. In some cases, it’s processed through the Absher platform, and you’ll be notified when it’s ready.

Once you hold your Saudi Arabia license, you’re legally allowed to drive anywhere in the Kingdom.

Step 11: Extra Tips to Speed Up the Process

• Book early: Driving schools can have long waiting lists, especially for female applicants since the lifting of the driving ban in 2018.
  
  
• Choose off-peak times: Morning slots usually have less waiting at schools and testing centers.
  
  
• Use official channels: Payments and appointment bookings can often be done through Absher, reducing the need for multiple visits.
  
  
• Keep documents organized: Missing a single paper can delay your application by weeks.

Step 12: Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the medical test early — Without it, you can’t even start the school registration.
  
  
• Underestimating the theory test — Many experienced drivers fail because they ignore the studying part.
  
  
• Not practicing enough parking maneuvers — A top reason for failing the road test.
  
  
• Ignoring local driving etiquette — Passing the test is one thing; driving comfortably in Saudi traffic is another.

Conclusion: Your Road to a Saudi Arabia Driving License
Getting a Saudi Arabia driving license is a clear, step-by-step process once you know what’s ahead. From checking your eligibility to passing your final road test, each stage builds your skills and confidence.

And remember, it’s not just about ticking off requirements. Driving in the Kingdom comes with its own pace and style. Learning that rhythm will make you not just a licensed driver, but a capable one.

If you want a smoother journey, practice before your tests using realistic questions and mock exams. SaudiDrivers.com gives you everything in one place including the latest Saudi Driver’s Handbook, practice tests, and challenging questions, so you can pass on your first try and start exploring the Kingdom with your new Saudi Arabia license!