Obtaining how to apply for driving license in KSA is more than just fulfilling a legal requirement—it's a gateway to greater mobility, personal.
Who Needs a Driving License in Saudi Arabia?
freedom, and everyday convenience. Whether you're a resident aiming to drive for the first time or a newcomer seeking to convert a foreign license, it's an essential step and you know how to apply for driving license in KSA.
Motaded can legally drive in Saudi Arabia using an international or foreign license from approved countries—such as the US, UK, UAE, or EU—for up to one year. After this period, obtaining a Saudi driving license becomes mandatory, and you need to know how to apply for driving license in KSA.
Eligibility and Requirements
To apply for a Saudi driving license, you must:
Be at least 18 years old.
Hold a valid Iqama (residency permit).
Pass a medical exam, including a vision test (Efada report).
Possess a valid foreign license (if applicable).
Have an active Absher account.
Additional required documents include:
A copy of your passport.
Passport-sized photos (4x6 cm).
Arabic translation of your foreign license (if not originally in Arabic).
Employer or sponsor's company ID.
Read About: Chamber of commerce certificate Saudi Arabia: Uses
Step-by-Step Guide: how to apply for driving license in ksa
1. Register on Absher
Create an account on the Absher platform and select the “Issuing a Driving License” service.
2. Book an Appointment
Schedule your visit with the local traffic department (Muroor) or a certified driving school via Absher. Choose a date for either the theory or practical exam.
3. Complete the Medical Exam
Visit an approved medical center for your Efada test, which includes vision, blood type, and general health. Ensure results are electronically linked to Absher.
4. Submit Your Documents
Bring all required documents and proof of fee payment to your appointment. If your license is from a recognized country, you might be exempt from testing.
5. Take the Driving Test (If Required)
Complete both the theoretical and practical exams, which may involve classroom instruction and on-road driving with an instructor and you need to know how to apply for driving license in KSA.
6. Receive Your License
After passing all requirements, your license will be issued. It can be collected in person or delivered via Saudi Post and you need to know how to apply for driving license in KSA.
License Exchange for Foreigners
Expats from certain countries—such as the US, UK, EU, and Australia—may be eligible to exchange their foreign license without undergoing full testing and you know how to apply for driving license in KSA.
Required Documents for Exemption:
Original license and a certified Arabic translation.
Efada medical report.
Absher appointment confirmation.
Payment receipt (SR 200–400 depending on license duration).
Why These Rules Matter?
Saudi Arabia’s road infrastructure is modern and widely utilized, making driver readiness essential. Getting licensed isn’t just a bureaucratic step—it’s about equipping individuals to navigate real-world driving conditions safely and responsibly from day one and you need to know how to apply for driving license in KSA.
These licensing requirements also reflect the country’s broader shift toward digitalization. Today, everything from booking driving tests to completing medical checks can be handled online, streamlining the entire process.
Understanding the licensing categories and eligibility criteria makes the process of how to apply for driving license in ksa much more straightforward. Beyond fulfilling a legal requirement, it’s a gateway to greater independence, job opportunities, and smoother daily living.
Whether you're applying for the first time or converting an existing license, success starts with knowing the process and preparing properly.
Want to know how to apply for driving license in KSA? Motaded can help you set up quickly and compliantly. Get in touch with our expert team today to transform your vision into a fully operational, future-ready company.
How to Renew Your Driving License in Saudi Arabia
Saudi driving licenses are valid for 2, 5, or 10 years, based on the selected fee.
Renewal Process:
Log in to your Absher account.
Settle any outstanding traffic fines.
Complete a new Efada medical checkup.
Pay the applicable renewal fee:
SR 80 for 2 years.
SR 200 for 5 years.
SR 400 for 10 years.
Submit your renewal request online.
Collect your new license via post or in person.
Tip: Renew your license up to 180 days before its expiry to avoid penalties.
Required Documents and Medical Examination Explained
Applying for a driving license in Saudi Arabia involves following a specific checklist. There are no shortcuts—every step is in place to ensure that drivers are legally eligible and physically and mentally fit to drive safely on public roads.
Among the most critical steps are submitting accurate documentation and passing a mandatory medical examination. This guide breaks both down so you can move forward without delays or surprises.
Step One: Gather Your Documents
Before visiting a driving school or accessing government services, ensure your paperwork is fully prepared. Even a single missing item can delay your application or force you to restart the process.
Valid Residency Permit (Iqama)
Your Iqama serves as your official ID in Saudi Arabia. It must be valid and current. The Traffic Department uses this to verify your legal residency and eligibility to apply for a license.
Passport Copy
A clear copy of your passport’s ID page is required. This confirms your identity and must match the details listed on your Iqama.
Four Passport-Sized Photos
Provide recent photos with a white background that comply with Saudi ID photo standards. These will be used on your application and your actual driving license.
Completed Application Form-
The driving license form is available in both Arabic and English. You can complete it online or by hand at the driving school. Be sure all personal details are accurate and consistent across documents.
Medical Report
This is a mandatory part of the application process. A certified medical facility must complete the exam and submit results electronically (more on this in the next section).
Letter from Sponsor (If Required)
Some expatriates, especially those under employer sponsorship, may need a no-objection letter from their sponsor. Requirements can vary by region and job role.
Driving File
Once your documents are in order, they’re stored in an official government-issued driving file, which stays with you throughout the licensing process.
Step Two: The Medical Examination—Your First Official Checkpoint
Before your license is issued, you must complete a government-approved medical exam. This step is mandatory and is more thorough than a simple formality. the Medical Exam Include:
Vision Test
Checks your ability to see clearly, distinguish colors, and judge distances. A minimum level of visual acuity—corrected or uncorrected—is required.
Blood Pressure Measurement-
Ensures you don’t have underlying conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely.
General Physical Evaluation-
A licensed physician will conduct a basic physical exam and ask general health questions.
Hearing Test (if applicable)
For certain license categories, your hearing ability may also be assessed.
This medical evaluation helps authorities confirm that new drivers can respond effectively to road conditions and remain aware behind the wheel and you know how to apply for driving license in KSA .
Where to Get Your Medical Test?
Driving license medical exams in Saudi Arabia must be conducted at medical centers officially approved by the Saudi Traffic Department.
To find an approved clinic near you, you can search directly through the Absher platform or ask for recommendations from your local driving school and you know how to apply for driving license in KSA.
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Whether you're a local entrepreneur or an international investor, our agency empowers you to move forward with clarity and confidence—free from delays, uncertainty, and bureaucracy. Get in touch with us today.
FAQs
What is the minimum age to apply for a driving license in Saudi Arabia?
To apply for a private driving license, you must be at least 18 years old. For public driving licenses—such as those for taxis, buses, or heavy vehicles—the minimum age is typically 20 or 21, depending on the vehicle category.
Can Expatriates Apply for a Driving License in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, expatriates with a valid Iqama (residency permit) are eligible to apply for a Saudi driving license. The application process is similar to that of Saudi citizens, but all documents must be valid and verified by official authorities.
What Documents Are Required for a New Driving License Application?
Applicants must provide:
A copy of their Iqama.
A passport copy.
Recent passport-sized photos.
A completed application form.
A valid medical report.
Proof of completing a driving course (if required).
Is a medical test mandatory?
Yes. Every applicant must undergo a medical examination at an approved medical center, which includes a vision test and a general health assessment.
What Does the Driving Test Involve?
The test consists of two parts:
A theoretical exam, covering traffic signs, driving rules, and road safety.
A practical driving test, where an examiner evaluates your on-road or simulated driving performance.
What if I fail the driving test?
If you don’t pass, you can retake the test. Depending on the results, you may be required to complete additional training hours before scheduling another attempt.