Everything You Need to Know About Renewing Your Resident Driver’s License
If you are a resident in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and drive a car, you will definitely need to renew your driver’s license before it expires. This service has become very easy through the Absher platform, and you no longer need to go to the traffic department and wait in queues. In this article, we will explain in detail the steps to renew your driver’s license for residents, the conditions, and the fees.
Conditions for Renewing Your Driver’s License for Residents
To be able to renew your driver’s license, there are conditions that must be met:
- Valid residency (residency must not have expired)
- Expiry of the current driver’s license or its imminent expiry
- Payment of traffic violations, if any
- Passing the periodic medical examination
- Attaching a recent 4×6 cm passport-sized photo
- The original license must not have expired for more than a year (if it has been more than a year, you need to retake the test)
Medical Examination for License Renewal
One of the most important steps in renewing your license is the medical examination. You can do it at any approved traffic medical examination center, and its validity is one full year. The examination includes vision, hearing, blood pressure, and other tests. Some centers offer advance booking services to save you time.
Fees for Renewing Your Driver’s License for Residents
The fees depend on the renewal period you choose:
- License for one year: 40 SAR
- License for two years: 80 SAR
- License for five years: 200 SAR
- License for ten years: 400 SAR
Note that medical examination and photography fees are not included in these amounts.
Steps to Renew Your Driver’s License via Absher
The easiest and fastest method is through the Absher platform. Follow these steps:
- Go to the Absher website (absher.sa) or download the Absher individuals app
- Select “My Services” then “Traffic”
- Choose “Renew Driver’s License”
- The current details of your license will appear; verify their accuracy
- Ensure traffic violations have been paid
- Select the license category and renewal period
- Enter the verification code sent to your mobile
- Pay the fees via the SADAD system
- After payment, you can download a PDF copy of the new license
After completing the steps, the new license will be delivered to your address if you requested delivery, or you can collect it from the post office.
When Do I Need to Retake the Driving Test?
If your license has been expired for more than a year, you cannot renew it. In this case, you need to apply for a new license as if it were your first time, which includes both the theoretical and practical driving tests at a driving school.
Important Tips
- Do not wait until your license expires — renew it a month before the expiry date
- Ensure traffic violations are paid before starting the renewal process
- Keep a PDF copy of the new license on your phone
- If your license expires while you are outside Saudi Arabia, there are special procedures — refer to the Traffic Department
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my driver’s license if my residency has expired?
No, your residency must be valid first. Renew your residency first, then proceed with renewing your license.
How long is the grace period to renew my license after it expires?
You can renew your license within one year of its expiry date. After one year, you need a new license with a retest.
Can a resident woman renew her driver’s license?
Yes, the service is available for both men and women residents under the same conditions and steps.
How long does it take to issue the license after renewal?
After completing the payment, the license is issued immediately electronically, and you can download it from Absher. The physical license will be delivered within 5-10 business days.
Can I renew my driver’s license through the Tawakkalna app?
No, the license renewal service is only available through the Absher individuals platform. Tawakkalna does not provide this service.
What should I do if I lose my driver’s license before renewal?
You can first request a replacement from Absher, then renew the new license. Alternatively, you can proceed directly with renewal and receive a new license.
