🚗 Saudi Arabia Driving License Conversion 2026

Full guide for expats — which countries are eligible, what documents you need, cost, and step-by-step process.

🔍 Check Your Country's Eligibility

💰 Estimated Cost

ItemCost (SAR)
Arabic translation of license~SAR 100
Medical examination (eye + general)SAR 100–200
License issuance feeSAR 100–300
Driving school (test required countries)SAR 800–2,000
Theory + practical test fee (if applicable)SAR 200–400
Total (no-test countries)SAR 300–600
Total (test required countries)SAR 1,200–2,600

📋 Step-by-Step Process

1

Confirm Eligibility

Check if your home country is on the approved list above. GCC countries, US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore — no driving test required.

2

Get Arabic Translation

Have your foreign license officially translated to Arabic by a certified legal translator. Cost ~SAR 100, takes 1–2 days. Required even if you speak Arabic.

3

Medical Examination

Visit any approved medical center. You'll get an eye test, blood group check, and general health check. Costs SAR 100–200 and takes under 1 hour. Ask Absher for approved centers near you.

4

Book Appointment via Absher

Log in to absher.sa → Individuals → Traffic Services → Driving License Conversion → Book appointment at your nearest traffic department.

5

Attend Appointment with Documents

Bring: valid original Iqama, original foreign license, Arabic translation, medical certificate, passport copy (bio page), 2 recent passport-sized photos.

6

Receive Saudi Driving License

Your Saudi license is issued on the same day or within 1–3 business days. It's valid for 10 years and allows you to drive all over the GCC.

⏰ You must convert your license within 3 months of receiving your Iqama. You can drive on your foreign license for the first year but conversion is recommended early.

📄 Documents Checklist

DocumentRequired?
Valid Iqama (original)Required
Original foreign driving licenseRequired
Arabic translation of licenseRequired
Medical certificate (eye + health check)Required
Passport copy (bio data page)Required
2 passport-sized photosRequired
Absher appointment confirmationRecommended
Driving school certificateIf test required

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Saudi Arabia on my foreign license?
Yes, for up to 1 year from arrival. However, if you're a resident (have Iqama), you should convert within 3 months. After 1 year, driving on a foreign license is technically illegal and your insurance may not cover accidents.
My country requires a test — what does the driving test involve?
The test has two parts: (1) Theory test on Saudi traffic rules and signs — multiple choice questions, usually in Arabic/English. (2) Practical driving test in a traffic department yard — you'll be assessed on basic maneuvers and road rules. Most driving schools prepare you for both.
Can I use a Saudi driving license in other GCC countries?
Yes. Saudi driving licenses are recognized across all GCC countries (UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman) without any additional paperwork.
What if my Iqama is renewed — do I need to renew my driving license?
No. Saudi driving licenses are valid for 10 years regardless of Iqama renewal cycles. You only renew the license when it expires.
Is an international driving permit (IDP) accepted in Saudi Arabia?
An IDP is accepted for tourists and short-term visitors. Residents with an Iqama must convert to a Saudi license — an IDP is not a permanent substitute.