How to Get a Saudi Driving License as an Expat in 2025
Can You Drive with a Foreign License in Saudi Arabia?
New expats often wonder if they can drive immediately upon arrival. The short answer: yes, for a limited time. You can legally drive in Saudi Arabia using a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) combined with your home country license for up to 3 months after your Iqama is issued. After that, you must hold a Saudi driving license.
Countries That Get Automatic License Conversion
Citizens of certain countries can convert their home country license directly to a Saudi license without taking a driving test. As of 2025, these include:
USA | UK | Canada | Australia | Germany | France | Belgium | Netherlands | Austria | Switzerland | Italy | Sweden | Finland | Denmark | Norway | New Zealand | Japan | South Korea | GCC Countries (UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar)
If your country is on this list, the process is quick — typically just document submission at the Muroor (Traffic Department) or via Absher.
Getting a New Saudi License (Test Required)
If your nationality is not on the conversion list (common for South Asian and many African nationalities), you need to:
- Enroll in an approved driving school (if you have no prior license)
- Pass a theory test (computer-based, available in Arabic and English)
- Pass a practical driving test at the Traffic Department
Documents Required
- [OK] Valid Iqama
- [OK] Original passport
- [OK] Home country driving license (original + copy + Arabic translation if required)
- [OK] Passport-sized photos (white background)
- [OK] Blood type certificate (can be obtained at any clinic)
- [OK] Eye test certificate (done at optician — fee ~50 SAR)
Step-by-Step Process via Absher & Muroor
- Log into Absher "My Services" "Traffic Services".
- Select "Issue Driving License" or "Convert Foreign License".
- Upload required documents and fill in the form.
- Schedule an appointment at your nearest Muroor (Traffic Department) office.
- Attend appointment with original documents.
- Pay the license fee (see below).
- Receive your temporary license; the plastic card is mailed within 2 weeks.
Fees & Validity
| Service | Fee (SAR) |
|---|---|
| New driving license (5 years) | 300 SAR |
| License conversion (foreign Saudi) | 300 SAR |
| Eye test | ~50 SAR |
| Blood type test | ~30 SAR |
| License renewal (every 10 years) | 300 SAR |
Expat Tips
- [web] The Absher website and Muroor appointment system are available in English.
- [blood] Get your blood test and eye test done before visiting Muroor — it saves a second trip.
- Some Muroor offices may request a certified Arabic translation of your foreign license — check with your local office beforehand.
- [time] Book your Muroor appointment early — slots fill up quickly, especially in Riyadh and Jeddah.