Saudi Youth Build Careers From Automotive Passion

A growing number of Saudi youth are turning their passion for cars into steady, well-paying careers, backed by expanding technical training options across the Kingdom. In the 2026 academic year, the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC) enrolled more than 12,000 trainees in automotive mechanics and vehicle electrical systems, and produced over 2,000 qualified specialists ready for the job market.

The trend reflects rising demand for hands-on skills in a sector that keeps millions of vehicles on Saudi roads. For young people who once tinkered with engines as a hobby, structured programs now offer a clear path into professional workshops, dealerships, and technical services.

Getting on the road: licence steps and fees

Behind every driver is a licence, and the process is standardized. A typical route runs through a medical and eye test, registration at a driving school, theory training, practical training, a theory test, a practical test, and finally licence issuance. Most licence services and appointments are handled through أبشر, the main official channel.

a private driving licence course costs SAR 435 for regular applicants and SAR 100 for part-time applicants. A public driving licence course costs SAR 435 for company employees or those who have held a private licence for the past two years, and SAR 560 for others. The government charges an annual licence fee of SAR 40, meaning a 5-year licence costs SAR 200 and a 10-year licence SAR 400.

Actual out-of-pocket costs vary widely by provider and training hours. Reported 2026 packages range from around SAR 690 for 6 hours to SAR 1,466.25 for 15 hours and SAR 2,760 for 30 hours. In total, obtaining a licence can run roughly SAR 900 to SAR 3,200, depending on training hours, medical checks, retests, and licence duration.

For young Saudis, the message is clear: technical skills and a licence together can open real career opportunities in a fast-growing sector.

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