Salam, fellows!
I, remember, obtaining a driving license in the Kingdom used to be a bit of an odyssey.
Long queues, endless paperwork, and enough tests to make your head spin.
But fear not, fellow adventurers!
Things have gotten smoother than a freshly paved highway in recent years, thanks to digitalization and some welcome reforms.
I remember my own journey (back in the “before times”).
Days spent waiting at traffic departments, deciphering cryptic forms, and battling the inevitable coffee-fueled chaos.
But guess what?
I conquered it, and so can you!
Whether you’re a driving veteran or a complete novice, I’m here to guide you through the process of obtaining your driving license in Saudi Arabia.
But first, grab a cup of gahwa and buckle up—this journey is about to get exciting!
Absher Appointment Booking
First things first, you’ll gonna need an appointment from Absher in order to obtain a driving license.
Here’s how you can effortlessly book your driving license appointment using Absher:
- Visit the Absher portal: https://absher.sa
- Log in with your Absher credentials.
- Click on My Services > Traffic > Issue Driving License.
- Choose your path:
- Novice driving training (30) hours: For those starting from scratch.
- Assessment of driving skills: For those with existing driving skills.
- Select your region: This is crucial for choosing the appropriate school branch and city.
- Pick a school branch and city: Choose the one most convenient for you.
- Select a date and time: Absher typically displays available slots for the upcoming week.
- Confirm appointment details: Double-check everything before proceeding.
- Print your appointment: Keep a hard copy for reference.
That’s it! You’ve successfully booked your driving license appointment on Absher.
Assessment vs. Novice Training
Assessment
- Head to the assessment center for a driving test with an instructor.
- They’ll determine the training hours you need (6, 15, or 30).
- Proceed to Nourah Driving School to register and pay fees.
Novice Training
- Visit Nourah Driving School (formerly Saudi Driving School).
- Fill out an online form, register, and pay fees.
Fees and Training Breakdown
| Level | Duration | Total Cost (SR) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner (30 Hours) | 30 Hours | 2760 | |
| 6 Hours | – | Online Theoretical Training | |
| 1 Hour | – | Simulation Lesson | |
| 1 Hour | – | Simulation Test | |
| 1 Hour | – | Theoretical Test | |
| 23 Hours | – | Practical Training | |
| 1 Hour | – | Practical Test | |
| Intermediate (15 Hours) | 15 Hours | 1466.25 | |
| 6 Hours | – | Online Theoretical Training | |
| 1 Hour | – | Simulation | |
| 1 Hour | – | Theoretical Test | |
| 8 Hours | – | Practical Training | |
| 1 Hour | – | Practical Test | |
| Advanced (6 Hours) | 6 Hours | 690 | |
| 6 Hours | – | Online Theoretical Training | |
| 1 Hour | – | Simulation | |
| 1 Hour | – | Theoretical Test | |
| 2 Hours | – | Practical Training | |
| 1 Hour | – | Practical Test |
Cruising Through Training and Tests
- Once enrolled, you’ll receive emails with your login details for online training.
- Complete theoretical training and quizzes.
- Schedule simulation lessons and practical training (call 920033805).
- Get a medical test at efada approved medical centre (results available on Absher).
- Ace your practical test and, Insha’Allah, you’ll have your license!
Driving License Fees & How to Pay?
Before setting off on your driving adventure, remember to invest in your freedom by paying the license fee.
The cost depends on your desired validity period:
| Validity Period | Fee |
|---|---|
| 10 years | SR 400 |
| 5 years | SR 200 |
| Renewal | SR 40 per year |
Conveniently, several options exist for making your payment:
SNB Bank
As my main account is from SNB AlAhli, let me explain you the process to make a payment for your driving license:
- Download the bank’s app on PlayStore or iTunes.
- Log in to your internet banking account.
- Navigate to “Menu” > “SADAD” > “Government Payments.”
- Select “Driving License” as the biller and “Issue License” as the service.
- Choose “Unregistered” and specify “Private” license type.
- Select your desired validity period (2, 5, or 10 years).
- If all details are correct, proceed with the payment.
Al Rajhi Bank
You can also pay your driving license fees through Al Rajhi Bank, here’s the process:
- Download the bank’s app on PlayStore or iTunes.
- Log in to your internet banking account.
- Go to “Payments” > “Government Payment.”
- Choose “Driving License” as the service and “Issue License” as the application type.
- In the next window, select “Payment” as the transaction type.
- Enter your Iqama number as the beneficiary ID.
- Choose “Private” license type and your desired validity period (2, 5, or 10 years).
- Confirm the details and proceed with the payment.
Dallah Driving School Fees
In addition to the license fee, remember to factor in the costs associated with Dallah Driving School:
| Fee | Description | Cost (SR) |
|---|---|---|
| Dallah Driving School Fee | Training and instruction costs | 575 |
| Computer Test Fee | Fee for the required computer test | 115 |
| Total Dallah School Fee | Combined cost of training and test | 690 |
Decoding Driving License Restriction Codes
Once you’ve conquered the tests and proudly hold your Saudi Arabia driving license, don’t forget to decipher those mysterious codes on your driving license.
By the way mine is: Code 0 which means no restrictions as I opted for a manual car.
Check yours, here’s a breakdown:
| Code | Restriction | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Code 0 (بدون قيود) | None | No driving restrictions |
| Code 1 | Automatic Transmission Only | Restricted to driving vehicles with automatic transmission |
| Code 2 | Prosthesis Required | Mandates the use of necessary prosthetic devices for safe driving |
| Code 3 | Corrective Lenses Required | Requires the use of glasses or contact lenses while driving |
| Code 4 | Daylight Driving Only | Permits driving only during daylight hours |
| Code 5 | Hearing Aid Required | Requires the use of a hearing aid while driving |
| Code 6 | Limited to Saudi Arabia | Driving restricted to within the borders of Saudi Arabia |
| Code 7 | Disabled Driver | Requires vehicles with hand controls for acceleration and braking |
| Code 8 | Private Use Only | Restricts driving to personal, non-commercial purposes |
List of Countries to Replace Foreign Driving License with Saudi Driving License
If you’re already a licensed driver from one of the 47 countries listed below, you’re in luck!
The General Directorate of Traffic in Saudi Arabia recognizes licenses from these nations, allowing you to convert or replace your existing driving license with a Saudi Arabia Driving License without the need for additional testing:
- Albania
- Australia
- Austria
- Bahrain
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- China
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Oman
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States
Driving Beyond Saudi Arabia
If you aspire to cruise beyond Saudi Arabia’s borders, consider an International Driving Permit (IDP).
This document translates your national license into 10 languages, making it valid in over 150 countries worldwide.
Obtain an IDP from the Saudi Automobile and Touring Association (SATA) before embarking on your international driving adventure.
Saudi Driving License Validity in Other Countries
While an IDP offers broader access, some countries readily accept Saudi driving licenses without conversion or additional permits.
These include:
- Bahrain
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates
Specific Country Considerations
- United Kingdom: Saudi licenses are valid for one year only after residence begins.
- Austria: You can drive with a valid Saudi license, but converting it to an Austrian one is recommended for longer stays.
Track your Driving License Status Online
- Log in to Absher
- Go to “My Services” > “Inquires” > “Traffic” > “Public Query Driving License.”
- Enter your ID/Iqama number and date of birth to access license information.
FAQs
How long does it take to get the license?
The whole process, from gathering documents to holding that shiny plastic rectangle, can take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your city and application speed.
Are there any driving restrictions for women?
As of 2021, all driving restrictions for women have been lifted!
Final Thoughts
Getting your driving license in Saudi Arabia might involve a few detours, but the destination is worth it.
Stay persistent, embrace the challenges, and soon you’ll be cruising through the bustling streets with confidence.
Remember, safe driving is about more than rules—it’s a mindset.
So, buckle up, stay alert, and enjoy the ride!