Driving on public roads in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia requires obtaining a valid driver’s license. While many people are aware of this, some may take the risk and drive without a license, either because they are still in the learning phase or because their license has expired and they have not renewed it. In this article, we explain in detail the penalty for driving without a license in Saudi Arabia according to the new traffic system.
What is the penalty for driving without a license in Saudi Arabia?
The Saudi traffic system imposes strict penalties for driving without a license, and these penalties vary depending on the situation:
1. Driving without a driver’s license at all
Financial fine: It starts from 1,000 Saudi Riyals and reaches up to 9,000 Riyals, depending on the decision of the traffic violations committee. The judge or committee determines the amount based on the severity of the violation and whether the driver is habitual in repeating it.
Vehicle impoundment: Traffic officers have the right to immediately impound the vehicle if the driver is caught driving without a license. The impoundment period is not less than 15 days and may extend to a full month in some cases.
Additional penalties: If the driver causes a traffic accident while driving without a license, the penalty increases and may include imprisonment in some cases, especially if the accident results in injuries or fatalities. Insurance companies do not cover accidents caused by a driver without a valid license.
2. Driving with an expired license
If the license was originally issued to you but has expired, the fine is less severe. The financial penalty ranges between 100 and 300 Saudi Riyals. The driver is required to renew the license immediately. It is preferable to renew the driver’s license through the Absher electronic platform before it expires, as delays result in additional fines.
3. Driving without carrying the license while having it
Some people have a valid license but forget it at home. In this case, the fine is minor and ranges between 100 and 150 Riyals. It is always advised to carry the license while driving, and you can show it electronically via the Absher app when requested by a traffic officer.
Driving without a license for residents and foreigners
For residents in Saudi Arabia, driving without a license has more severe consequences. The same financial penalties apply, but in addition, the resident may face additional measures, including:
- Deportation from the Kingdom in case of repetition or if a serious accident is committed.
- Preventing residency renewal until fines are paid.
- Recording the violation in the traffic record, which affects the resident’s reputation.
As for visiting foreigners (tourists), they can drive with an approved international driver’s license for one year from the date of entry into the Kingdom. If caught driving without a license, the same penalties applicable to Saudis will be imposed on them.
How to inquire about traffic violations via Absher?
If a penalty for driving without a license is recorded against you, you can easily inquire about it:
- Enter the Absher platform (absher.sa).
- Log in with your account (Absher individuals).
- Select “Traffic Services” then “Inquire about traffic violations”.
- All registered violations will appear, including driving fines without a license.
You can also contest the violation if you believe it was registered in error, within 30 days of its registration.
Important tips to avoid fines
- Renew your license before it expires: You can renew your driver’s license via Absher without visiting traffic, provided that the license has not been expired for more than 3 years.
- Always carry your license: Even if it is expired, carry it with you until renewal to avoid the “not carrying the license” violation.
- Learn to drive in licensed schools: Do not learn to drive from an ordinary person as you expose yourself to legal accountability.
- Pay fines immediately: Unpaid traffic violations accumulate and may hinder the renewal of your license or your vehicle’s registration.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is the fine for driving without a license in Saudi Arabia?
A: It varies by case. If you have never obtained a license, the fine starts at 1,000 SAR and reaches up to 9,000 SAR with vehicle impoundment. If your license is expired, the fine is 100-300 SAR.
Q: Is the car impounded if driven without a license?
A: Yes, traffic officers have the right to immediately impound the vehicle. The impoundment period is no less than 15 days.
Q: Does the same apply to residents?
A: Yes, and penalties are stricter. A resident may face deportation in case of repetition or causing a serious accident without a license.
Q: Can I drive with an international license in Saudi Arabia?
A: Yes, for tourists and temporary visitors. The international license is recognized for up to one year from the date of entry into the Kingdom.
Q: How do I know if I have a fine for driving without a license?
A: Through the Absher platform, select “Inquire about traffic violations” and all registered violations against you will appear.
We wish you safe driving and continued compliance with traffic regulations. Remember that a driver’s license is not just a piece of paper, but proof of your competence to drive safely on the roads.
