Since Saudi Arabia allowed women to drive in 2018, obtaining a driver’s license has become a fundamental step for every woman who wants to drive her own vehicle. Thanks to digital development in government services, the process of obtaining a driver’s license for women has become easy and accessible through the Absher platform.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain the conditions for obtaining a driver’s license for women in Saudi Arabia 1448 AH, the complete steps to obtain it, the required documents, and the most famous driving schools in the Kingdom.
Basic Conditions for Obtaining a Driver’s License for Women
The General Department of Traffic has set a number of conditions that must be met by the applicant to obtain a driver’s license, which are:
- Age: The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
- Identity: Bring a valid national ID for Saudi women, or a regular residency for residents.
- Medical Examination: Conduct a medical examination at an approved center, which includes an eye test and a general examination to ensure the health ability to drive.
- Paying Fines: Any registered traffic violations must be paid before applying for the license.
- Passing Tests: Passing the theoretical and practical tests at an approved driving school.
- Fees: Pay the license issuance fee, which is 40 Saudi Riyals for a private license.
Steps to Book a Training Appointment via Absher
To obtain a driver’s license, you must first book an appointment for training at one of the driving schools. Here are the steps in detail:
- Go to the Absher individuals platform absher.sa.
- Log in using your username and password.
- Enter the verification code sent to your mobile.
- Click on the “My Services” icon, then select “Traffic”.
- Choose the “Book an Appointment” service.
- Select “Training in Driving Schools” and specify the level (beginner or you have a skill).
- Choose the appropriate region for you.
- Select the school and the appropriate appointment.
- Confirm the booking.
Training Stages and Tests
After booking the appointment, you will go through the following stages at the driving school:
- Initial Assessment: To determine your driving level.
- Theoretical Lectures: To learn traffic rules and road signs.
- Simulation Training: Using simulation devices to train in a safe environment.
- Practical Training: Driving the car under the supervision of a specialized trainer.
- Theoretical Test: An electronic test covering traffic rules and signs.
- Practical Test: Driving the car in front of the examiner to evaluate skills.
After passing the tests, you can issue the driver’s license through Absher and then print it or receive it from the traffic office.
Most Famous Driving Schools for Women
Driving schools for women are spread across various cities in the Kingdom, and the most prominent ones include:
- Saudi Driving School: At Princess Noura University in Riyadh, phone 920011136.
- Sharq Driving School: In Dammam, phone 0133338833.
- Al-Khobar Model School: In Al-Khobar, phone 0138581901.
- Al-Ahsa Driving School: In Al-Ahsa, phone 0135809999.
- Al-Nazawi Driving School: In Medina, phone 0148615548.
Driver’s License Fees for Women
The fee for issuing a private driver’s license is 40 Saudi Riyals per year, and it can be issued for one, two, or five years. The training course fees vary depending on the school and range between 425 and 560 Saudi Riyals for the full course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can residents obtain a driver’s license in Saudi Arabia?
Q: Can residents obtain a driver’s license?
A: Yes, residents can obtain a driver’s license provided they have a valid residency permit and meet the other requirements.
Q: What is the validity period of a driver’s license for women?
A: The license can be issued for one year, two years, or five years, depending on your preference, with the corresponding fees for each duration.
Q: Does a woman need a male guardian to obtain a driver’s license?
A: No, a male guardian is not required for women to obtain a driver’s license in Saudi Arabia.
Q: How can I check if my driver’s license has been issued?
A: You can inquire about your driver’s license through Absher by navigating to Traffic Services > Driver’s License Inquiry and entering your ID or residency number.
Q: Can I drive in Saudi Arabia with an international driver’s license?
A: Yes, you can use an international driver’s license or a translated license from your home country for a limited period, but it is preferable to replace it with a Saudi license for long-term residency.
