Converting a Foreign Driving Licence in Saudi Arabia

If you are a new resident in Saudi Arabia and already hold a valid driving licence from your home country, you may be able to swap it for a Saudi licence without sitting a full driving test. The process is handled by the General Department of Traffic (Muroor) through Absher and the Saudi Driving License Portal (SDLP), and while it involves a few appointments, it is straightforward once you know the order of steps. This Saudi Living guide walks you through eligibility, documents, the medical check, fees, and how to complete everything online and in person.

Who can convert directly

Saudi authorities maintain an official list of around 48 approved countries whose driving licences qualify for direct conversion — meaning holders often avoid the practical driving test. If your issuing country is on this list and your licence is still valid, your path is significantly simpler. Applicants from countries outside the list may be asked to take a short driving test at the traffic office before their Saudi licence is issued.

• A valid Iqama (resident ID).
• A valid, unexpired foreign driving licence from an eligible country.
• Medical fitness confirmed through an approved clinic.

Mind the time limit

Long-term residents are generally expected to convert their foreign licence within three months of Iqama issuance. It is wise to begin the process early rather than leaving it until the deadline, since booking appointments and completing the medical check can take a few days. Always confirm current timeframes on Absher, as requirements can be updated.

Documents you will need

Prepare the following before you start; having clear copies ready speeds everything up:

• Original foreign driving licence.
• Certified Arabic translation of the licence.
• Iqama (original and a copy).
• Copy of your passport bio page.
• Recent passport-size photos (usually 4×6 cm).
• Medical report from an approved clinic (eye and basic health tests).
• In some cases, a sponsor letter and a completed official traffic form.

Translation and medical check

Your foreign licence must be translated into Arabic by a certified translation office. This is typically inexpensive — often in the range of SAR 50–150, with some offices quoting around SAR 100, and it can usually be completed the same day.

The medical examination is done at an approved medical centre or clinic and includes an eye test, blood group, and a general health check. Expect it to take roughly 30–60 minutes, with a typical cost in the region of SAR 100–200. The clinic uploads or issues your fitness result, which links to your application.

Step-by-step online process

The conversion combines two official channels — Absher and the SDLP portal:

• Create or log into your Absher (Individuals) account.
• In Absher, go to Appointments → Traffic and choose the driving licence replacement / conversion service.
• Separately access the Saudi Driving License Portal (sdlp.sa) and select the service for converting a foreign driving licence, then submit your data and upload the required documents.
• Wait for the preliminary approval notification (usually by SMS).
• Attend your scheduled Muroor appointment with all originals in hand.
• If required — mainly for applicants not on the direct-conversion list — complete a short driving test.
• Pay the issuance fee electronically via Sadad or your bank app under government payments.

Fees and licence validity

Driving licence issuance fees are usually calculated by the number of years of validity you choose. A common structure cited is around SAR 40 per year, which works out to roughly SAR 200 for a 5-year licence and SAR 400 for a 10-year licence. Some guides also reference figures such as SAR 80 for a 2-year licence and SAR 250 for a 5-year licence. Because fee structures can change, confirm the exact amount shown during payment on the official portal before you pay.

Tips for a smooth conversion

• Start early — well within your first three months of residency.
• Double-check that your issuing country is on the approved list to know whether a test applies.
• Keep both the original and translated licence with you at the appointment.
• Verify appointment locations and current requirements directly on Absher and the SDLP portal, as these are the authoritative sources.

Once approved and paid, your Saudi driving licence is issued and you are legally set to drive across the Kingdom. Keep your documents organised and you will find the whole journey manageable.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving