Have you passed the driving test?
Well, that’s really great.
However, getting a driving license does not stand for just passing a test in Saudi Arabia. It says that you are ready enough to handle different vehicles on public roads according to safety rules.
In this post, we will explain the different categories of driving licenses required by all inhabitants and expats who desire to drive legally in the Kingdom’s territories.
Further, the post will highlight multiple types of driving licenses in KSA. We’ll also shed light on different conditions of their eligibility of application, and other such incidental facts. So, let’s dive in.
Categories of Saudi Driving License
- Public Driving License
- Private Driving License
- Motorcycle Driving License
- Heavy Vehicle Driving License
- Temporary Driving License/Permit
- Diplomatic Driving License
Public Driving License
Having in mind driving a public vehicle, such as a taxi or bus?
Then you’ll need a special kind of license—a public driving license. This isn’t the same as a regular one; it requires more training and a higher level of skill because you’re responsible for passengers.
Things You Need to Know
- You should be at least 21 years or older.
- Your occupation should necessitate driving a public vehicle.
- Present a medical check-up report.
- Present six passport-sized photos (4×6 cm).
- Provide a copy of your Family Record. However, provide a report from Civil Affairs in case you’re single.
- You must not have a criminal record.
- Pay the necessary fees.
- Submit a reference letter if you are a civil administrative service.
Permitted Vehicles
- Yellow number plate public transport vehicles (taxi, bus).
Prohibited Vehicles
- Cargo carriers. Only allowed if you have a heavy vehicle license.
- Motorcycles.
- Blue or green number plate vehicles.
Private Driving License
This is the most frequent kind of license.This will permit you to drive your own vehicle, e.g., a cruiser or an SUV. Passing a computer as well as physical driving test is mandatory to acquire this license.
Things You Need to Know
- Your age should be 18.
- Present a medical check-up report.
- Hand in a duplicate of your ID.
- Submit six passport-sized photos (4×6 cm).
- Pay the necessary fees.
- Carry a file to hold your documents.
Permitted Vehicles
- Vehicles known as private and light such as sedans, SUVs – having white number plates.
Prohibited Vehicles
- Public vehicles including buses and taxis.
- Heavy vehicles such as trucks.
- Motorcycles and specialized vehicles.
- Those with number plates in blue, green or yellow colours.
Motorcycle Driving License
In order to run a motorcycle in Saudi Arabia, you must own this unique license. It entails passing a computer test as well as a riding test.
Things You Need to Know
- You should be 16.
- Complete the form that is required.
- Submit four passport photos (4×6 cm).
- Hand in a photocopy of your Civil Affairs ID( in the case of Saudis) or a photocopy of your Iqama and passport( for non-Saudis).
- Submit a letter from a guardian if you are less than 18 years old.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Submit a Good Conduct Certificate.
Permitted Vehicles
- Motorbikes of all engine capacities.
Prohibited Vehicles
- Cars, lorries, buses, and specialist vehicles.
Heavy Vehicles Driving License
This license is for individuals who want to drive more than one heavy vehicle. These vehicles include motorcars and trucks.However, you’ll claim this license, If you want to work in a profession where you need to drive heavy vehicles. If you wish to work in a career where you must operate heavy vehicles, you will need this license.
Things You Need to Know
- Complete the specified form.
- Attach four passport photographs (4×6 cm).
- Attach an identification letter issued by an official organization.
- Pay fees as required.
- Attach a sponsor’s letter (for non-Saudis).
- Your profession must involve driving heavy vehicles.
Permitted Vehicles
- Cargo carriers and large buses, having blue number plates .
Prohibited Vehicles
- Motorcycles.
- Technical vehicles like bulldozers and construction machines.
Temporary Driving License/Permit
This type of license is granted to the persons who are undergoing driving skill in Saudi Arabia. It usually has an upper limit of one year and provides you with limited driving privileges.
Things You Need to Know
- You should be 17 years old.
- Present a medical check-up report.
- Present six passport-sized photos (4×6 cm).
- Provide copies of your Civil Affairs IDs or passports.
Permitted Vehicles
- The vehicles that are private and light. Especially for those who are under 18.
Prohibited Vehicles
- The vehicles that are used for public transportation, cargo carriers, and motorcycles.
Diplomatic Driving License
If you belong to a diplomat family, you get a diplomatic driving license while living in Saudi Arabia. It isn’t tested for but requires evidence of identity from the consulate or delegacy.
Things You Need to Know
- Complete the necessary form.
- Provide 4 photos (size 4 x 4), having stamps of any high-scale personnel.
- Submit a restated duplicate of your foreign motorist’s license. It must be verified.
Permitted Vehicles
- The green plated vehicles that have registration as a belonging of political authority.
Prohibited Vehicles
- Public transport vehicles.
- Heavy vehicles.
- Motorcycles.
Saudi Driving License Fee
The fees for getting and renewing a driving license vary in Saudi Arabia. Each category of license has its own rates and these rates also vary according to the validity period of license.
Wrapping It Up
You are supposed to know about various types of driving licenses available in Saudi Arabia if you intend to drive there. Ensure that you pick the correct license for the vehicle you intend to drive and that you comply with all the requirements.
Collect information from your nearest traffic institute. Further, check out different posts regarding driving licenses. And don’t forget, always drive safely!