Converting a Foreign Driving Licence in Saudi Arabia

If you already drive back home, you don't necessarily have to start from scratch in Saudi Arabia. Residents from a list of approved countries can convert a valid foreign driving licence into a Saudi one without sitting a full driving course, as long as they meet the eligibility rules and complete a short set of steps online and in person. In this Saudi Living guide, we walk you through who qualifies, what documents you'll need, the medical test, the fees, and the full process from start to finish. Because rules and figures can change, always confirm the latest details through Absher and the Saudi Driving License Portal before you begin.

Who is eligible to convert?

Direct conversion is designed for residents who already hold a genuine, valid driving licence from an approved country. To qualify, you generally need to meet the following conditions:

• You are an iqama holder with valid, in-date residency.
• You hold a valid foreign driving licence that has not expired.
• Your issuing country is on Saudi Arabia's list of approved countries for direct conversion (around 48 countries as of 2025–2026).
• You pass a medical test at an Efada-approved medical centre.

If your country is not on the approved list, you may instead be directed to enrol at a driving school and follow the standard testing route rather than direct conversion.

Documents you'll need

Preparing your paperwork in advance saves a lot of time at the traffic office. The typical set includes:

• Your valid iqama (resident ID).
• Your valid foreign driving licence, scanned front and back.
• A certified Arabic translation of the foreign licence from a translation office accepted by Muroor (the traffic department).
• A medical report from an Efada-approved provider, showing eyesight and basic health checks.
• Passport-size photos, if requested.

Step-by-step: the online and in-person process

The conversion combines an online application with a traffic appointment. Follow these steps in order:

• Log into your Absher account, then go to Appointments → Traffic and select the replacement or foreign-licence service for driving licences.
• Visit the Saudi Driving License Portal (sdlp.sa) and choose the service for converting a foreign driving licence.
• Enter your personal data (iqama number, date of birth, nationality) and your foreign licence details, then upload the required scans.
• Wait for the pre-approval notification, which arrives by SMS or through Absher.
• Attend your booked appointment at the designated traffic office or driving school to finalise the conversion and collect your Saudi licence.

The medical test

Every applicant must pass a basic medical check at an Efada-approved clinic or hospital. It is quick and straightforward, and usually covers:

• An eyesight test.
• Blood group verification.
• A general health check.

The typical cost in 2025–2026 is around SAR 150–200. The clinic records your results digitally, which are then linked to your application.

Certified translation

Your foreign licence must be translated into Arabic by a certified translator recognised by Muroor and other Saudi authorities. Only accepted translation offices will be honoured, so check that the office is approved before paying. A standard licence translation usually costs around SAR 100.

Government issuance fees

Once approved, you pay the standard issuance fee based on how long you want the licence to be valid. Current private-licence fees are structured as follows:

• 2-year licence: SAR 80.
• 5-year licence: around SAR 200–250 (some current conversion guides still quote SAR 250).
• 10-year licence: SAR 400.

Remember to budget separately for the medical test and translation on top of these government fees.

Tips for a smooth conversion

• Confirm your country is on the approved list before starting, to avoid unnecessary steps.
• Make sure your foreign licence is still valid — an expired licence can block direct conversion.
• Keep clear, high-quality scans of both sides of your licence and your iqama ready to upload.
• Book your traffic appointment early, as slots can fill quickly in major cities.
• Always confirm the latest fees and requirements on Absher and the Saudi Driving License Portal before you pay.

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