Saudi Driving Licence for ExpatsProcess, Requirements & Fees (2026)
Once you have your iqama, getting a Saudi driving licence is one of the first practical steps to gain independence in the Kingdom. This guide explains who can exchange their foreign licence without a test, who must take a driving test, what documents you need, and how much it costs.
Can expats drive in Saudi Arabia with a foreign licence?
Expats with an iqama must obtain a Saudi driving licence to drive legally in the Kingdom. An international driving permit is not recognised for iqama holders. Selected foreign licences may be eligible for direct exchange without a driving test, depending on the current Muroor-approved list and your licence category — verify in Absher or with Muroor before applying. If your licence is not eligible, you may need driving school and a theory and practical test.
Which licences may be eligible for direct exchange (no test)?
Selected foreign licences may be eligible for direct exchange, depending on the current Muroor-approved list and your licence category. The examples below are a planning guide, not an official certainty — always verify your eligibility in Absher or with Muroor.
The approved list changes periodically. Always verify your nationality's eligibility through the Absher app or at a Muroor office before starting the process. If your licence is not eligible, you may need driving school and a theory and practical test.
Women and men can apply for a Saudi driving licence. Female applicants follow the same eligibility rules, and women driving schools are available in major cities.
How to Exchange Your Licence for a Saudi Driving Licence (Step by Step)
- 1
Ensure your iqama is valid
Your iqama must be valid (not expired or expiring within 3 months) before applying for a driving licence. Renew it first if needed.
- 2
Get an eye test at an approved optician
Visit a Muroor-approved optician or health centre for a driving vision test. The medical fitness certificate costs around SAR 100–200. You will receive a medical fitness certificate.
- 3
Prepare documents
Original iqama, original foreign driving licence + clear photocopy, certified Arabic translation, eye test certificate, passport photos as required by Muroor (current local data expects 4 passport photos, 4x6 cm), passport copy, and the fee payment receipt.
- 4
Book appointment via Absher or visit Muroor office
Book a Muroor (Traffic Department) appointment via the Absher app or walk in to your nearest Muroor office. Some cities also allow applications via the Najm offices.
- 5
Submit documents and pay fees
Pay the government licence fee, charged at SAR 40 per year for a private licence (for example SAR 400 for a 10-year licence). The officer verifies your documents and foreign licence. Your original foreign licence may be retained by Muroor.
- 6
Receive your Saudi licence
Your Saudi licence is typically issued same-day or within 3–5 business days. Licence validity depends on the period selected or issued; fees are charged at SAR 40 per year for a private licence.
Saudi Driving Licence Fees for Expats (2026)
| Item | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Government licence fee (private vehicle) | SAR 40/year (e.g. SAR 400 for 10 years) |
| Medical/eye fitness test at approved clinic | SAR 100–200 |
| Learner permit (if test required) | SAR 100 |
| Driving school (if test required) — average | ≈ SAR 2,000 |
| Theory test fee (if applicable) | SAR 75 |
| Practical driving test fee (if applicable) | SAR 150 |
Government licence fees are SAR 40 per year for a private driving licence — for example SAR 400 for a 10-year licence — plus medical/eye-test and school fees where applicable. Confirm current figures on Absher. Use the driving licence cost tool for an itemised estimate.
By Saudi Expats Editorial Team. Last updated 31 May 2026. Always confirm your case in the official portal before acting.
Official sources
Saudi Driving Licence — FAQs
Can expats drive in Saudi Arabia with a foreign driving licence?
Expats with an iqama must obtain a Saudi driving licence. An IDP is not recognised for iqama holders. Selected foreign licences may be eligible for direct exchange depending on the current Muroor-approved list and your licence category; if your licence is not eligible, you may need driving school and theory/practical tests. Always verify in Absher or with Muroor before applying.
Which nationalities can exchange without a test?
Selected countries may be eligible for direct exchange, depending on the current Muroor-approved list and your licence category. The list changes periodically, so verify your eligibility in Absher or at a Muroor office before starting. If your licence is not eligible, you may need driving school and a theory and practical test.
How much does a Saudi driving licence cost?
Government licence fees are SAR 40 per year for a private driving licence — for example SAR 400 for a 10-year licence — plus roughly SAR 100–200 for the medical/eye fitness test. If a driving test is required, add about SAR 2,000 for driving school plus SAR 75 theory and SAR 150 practical test fees. Use our driving licence cost tool for the latest figures.
How long does the process take?
Direct exchange takes 1–2 weeks once documents are ready. If a test is required, allow 4–8 weeks including driving school lessons.