Fine of Up to SAR 6,000 for Passing a Stopped School Bus

Traffic authorities in Saudi Arabia have reminded drivers that passing or overtaking a school bus while it is stopped to load or drop off students is a traffic violation, carrying a fine of between SAR 3,000 and SAR 6,000.

Under the Traffic Law, school buses that stop for passengers to get on or off may not be overtaken. The rule applies while the bus is stationary during embarking and disembarking, when children are most likely to be crossing or standing near the road.

This is an enforcement rule rather than a permit or service, so no separate application or validity period is involved. Compliance is monitored through the traffic authorities and the traffic-violations system, and the published fine range remains SAR 3,000 to SAR 6,000 in 2026.

Why it matters

The measure is aimed at protecting students during the busiest moments of their journey to and from school. Drivers are urged to slow down and stop when they approach a school bus that has halted to pick up or set down children, and to wait until it is safe before continuing.

For families across Riyadh, Jeddah and other cities, the reminder is a timely one at the start of the school day, when roads near schools are crowded and children move quickly between vehicles and pavements.

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