Driving license

How to get a Saudi License

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. Here's how:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.

  1. Where to Go:
    • Visit the Central Blood Bank (بنك دم مركزي) of your local hospital.
    • Note: This is not the regular blood test center; confirm you’re at the correct department.
  2. What to Do:
    • Fill out a form with your personal details.
    • Double-check your mobile number is accurate, as errors will prevent confirmation.
  3. Medical Checks:
    • Blood Type: If you already 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.
  4. 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, it’s time to book your license conversion appointment through Absher.

  1. Log In:
    • Visit the Absher website (use a web browser, not the app).
  2. Find the Service:
    • Navigate to the Appointments section
    • Click Traffic followed by Book New Appointment
    • Select Istibdaal (Replacement of driving license) and Region.
  3. Choose a Center:
    • In Madinah, there are two driving schools, only “Namudhajiyah Driving School in Al-Madina East” does Istibdaal (license conversion)
  4. Input Your Details:
    • License Number.
    • Expiry Date.
    • Country of Issuance.
    • License Language.
  5. Upload Required Documents:
    • Scan the front and back of your original license.
    • Scan your translated license.
    • Note: Compress the PDFs if needed online, a free option is smallpdf.com/compress-pdf
      • You may encounter errors on submission thus be aware this process may require multiple attempts at different times, be patient.

 

Step 4: Attend Your Appointment

  1. Prepare Your Documents:
    • Original driving license.
    • Printed copies of:
      • Front and back of your license.
      • Your Iqaama.
      • Translated license with an official stamp.
  2. At the Appointment:
    • Arrive 15-30 minutes early. The centers are often busy.
    • Present your documents at the reception.
    • Staff may ask about your blood test confirmation or other details – so have the text message at hand.
  3. 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 are not available on the mobile app.
  • Bring all required documents in both original and printed form.

 

Congratulations! With your new Saudi license in hand, you’re ready to drive in the Kingdom. Alhamdulillah! If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with others who might need assistance.

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