Saudi Driving Licence (Rukhsat Qiyada) in Saudi Arabia
Convert your foreign licence in hours - or budget weeks if you need the full test.
Last verified: 2026-06
Overview
Saudi Arabia recognises licences from many countries for direct conversion (a short eye test and paperwork), while drivers from non-listed countries must complete a driving school course and pass a practical test.
Licences are issued by the General Directorate of Traffic (Muroor) and managed on Absher. Women have been able to apply on the same terms as men since 2018.
Documents required
- Valid Iqama
- Original foreign driving licence (still valid)
- Certified Arabic translation of foreign licence (from approved translator)
- Eye test certificate from approved optician
- Passport copy
- Two passport photos
Eligibility
- You hold a valid Iqama
- You are 18 or older
- You pass the standard eye test
- Your home-country licence is from a country approved for conversion (otherwise full course required)
Fees
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Driving licence (10 years) | 400 SAR | Most common duration. Confirm current amount on Absher. |
| Driving licence (5 years) | 200 SAR | Lower-cost option. |
| Eye test | 50-100 SAR | At any approved optician. |
| Driving school (full course) | 2,400-3,000 SAR | Required for drivers from non-listed countries. Confirm current rate with Dallah/Saudi Driving School. |
| Theory and practical tests (school applicants) | Included SAR | Bundled into school fee in most cases. |
Step by step
- 1
Translate and prepare documents
Get your foreign licence translated to Arabic by a Ministry of Justice-approved translator, and complete an eye test at any approved optician.
1-2 days · center
- 2
Book a Muroor appointment on Absher
If converting, book a 'driving licence services' appointment at your local traffic department through Absher.
online
- 3
Attend driving school (if required)
Drivers from non-listed countries register at Dallah Driving School, Saudi Driving School, or other approved centres for a 30-hour course.
2-6 weeks · center
- 4
Pass the practical test
Either the in-school assessment or a Muroor test for conversions that require it. Bring your Iqama and confirmation.
Same day · center
- 5
Pay fee and receive licence
Pay the licence fee on SADAD using the bill number generated. The licence is printed at the centre or mailed via SPL.
Same day · either
Processing time: Conversion: 1-3 days. Full course route: 4-8 weeks depending on school availability.
Where to do it online
- Absher
Booking, renewal, fine payment, licence status
Approved translators and typing centres handle Arabic translations of foreign licences - required before submitting at Muroor.
Renewal
Renewals are done entirely on Absher. You'll need a fresh eye test and clear traffic fines. Late renewal incurs a 100 SAR fine per year overdue (confirm current penalty on Absher).
Fines & penalties
- Driving with expired licence: 100-300 SAR fine
- Driving without a Saudi licence (international licence after 90 days): 500-1,000 SAR
- Lost licence replacement: 100 SAR
Common pitfalls
- Using an uncertified translation - Muroor will reject it
- Assuming all GCC licences convert directly (most do, but check the current list)
- Letting your foreign licence expire before conversion - you lose direct-conversion eligibility
- Booking the wrong appointment type on Absher (conversion vs. new test)
FAQs
GCC states, most EU countries, the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and several others. The list changes; check the current one on Absher or with Muroor before booking.
Yes. Since June 2018, women apply under the same rules and fees as men.
Typically 10 years, with a 5-year option at a lower fee.
No, only an eye test and clear fines. The renewal itself is processed on Absher.
Yes, but only for the first 90 days of your residency. After that, you must hold a Saudi licence.
Skip the hassle
A vetted typing centre can handle the paperwork end-to-end.
Get help with Saudi Driving Licence (Rukhsat Qiyada)