How to Convert Your Driving License to a Saudi License: Step-by-Step Guide
If you're in Saudi Arabia and need to convert your existing driving license into a Saudi license, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process. With the right preparation, it’s straightforward. Note: This process is only for Iqamah (Residency Card) holders.
Step 1: Get Your Driving License Translated
The first step is to translate your driving license into Arabic.
Where to Get It Translated:
- Students at the Islamic University of Madinah can get their license translated for free at Shuoon Tullab (Student Affairs).
- Ensure the translation includes an official stamp for authenticity.
Why It’s Important:
- The translation must be certified; self-translations won’t be accepted.
- Make several copies of the translated license for later steps.
Step 2: Register Your Blood Type (Takes ~30 Minutes)
Next, you need to register your blood type at a blood bank in a local hospital.
Where to Go:
- Visit the Central Blood Bank (بنك دم مركزي) of your local hospital.
- Note: This is not the regular blood test centre; confirm you’re at the correct department.
What to Do:
- Fill out a form with your personal details.
- Double-check your mobile number is accurate to avoid confirmation issues.
Medical Checks:
- Blood Type: If you know your blood type, you can confirm it; otherwise, a quick finger prick test will determine it.
-
Vision Test:
- Read a Snellen Chart (letters or directional shapes).
- Complete a colour blindness test using Ishihara Plates.
What Happens Next:
You’ll receive a confirmation text within a few hours, which looks like this:
"عزيزي المستفيد، تم إصدار تقرير فحص رخصة قيادة رقم (Confirmation Number) بنجاح، بنتيجة: لائق"
Translation:
"Dear Beneficiary, a driving license medical test report with reference number (Confirmation Number) has been successfully issued with the result: Fit."
Step 3: Book an Appointment on Absher
Once your medical report is complete, book your license conversion appointment through Absher.
Log In:
- Visit the Absher website (use a web browser, not the app).
Find the Service:
- Navigate to the Appointments section.
- Click Traffic followed by Book New Appointment.
- Select Istibdaal (Replacement of driving license) and your region.
Choose a Centre:
- In Madinah, the only centre offering Istibdaal is Namudhajiyah Driving School in Al-Madina East.
Input Your Details:
- License Number.
- Expiry Date.
- Country of Issuance.
- License Language.
Upload Required Documents:
- Scan the front and back of your original license.
- Scan your translated license.
- Compress PDFs if needed (use free tools like smallpdf.com/compress-pdf).
Note:
You may encounter submission errors. Be patient and attempt the process at different times.
Step 4: Attend Your Appointment
Prepare Your Documents:
- Original driving license.
- Printed copies of:
- Front and back of your license.
- Your Iqamah.
- Translated license with an official stamp.
At the Appointment:
- Arrive 15–30 minutes early, as the centres can be busy.
- Present your documents at the reception.
- Staff may ask about your blood test confirmation or other details – have the text message at hand.
Wait for Processing:
- Once your documents are verified, take a seat and wait for your name to be called.
Step 5: Collect Your Saudi Driving License
When your name is called, your Saudi license will be issued on the spot.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Double-check all details when filling out forms to avoid delays.
- Use the Absher desktop version, as some features may not be available on the mobile app.
- Bring all required documents in both original and printed form.
