Before you can obtain or renew a driver’s license in Saudi Arabia, there is a very important step you must go through: the medical examination. This examination confirms to you and the relevant authorities that you are physically fit to drive, ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Who Needs the Medical Examination?
The medical examination is required in several cases:
• Issuing a driver’s license for the first time — whether it is a private, public, or motorcycle license.
• Renewing a driver’s license — an updated medical examination is required for each renewal.
• Replacing a foreign driver’s license — if you are a resident and converting your license to a Saudi one.
• Reissuing a license after cancellation — some cases require a new examination.
Approved Centers for the Medical Examination
You cannot undergo the examination at any regular clinic. It must be conducted at centers approved by the General Traffic Department. These centers are spread across all regions of the Kingdom and include:
• Selected government hospitals
• Certain primary healthcare centers
• Some licensed private medical complexes
• Specialized traffic medical examination centers in major cities
You can view the list of approved centers through the Absher platform or the Sehati app, and choose the nearest one to you.
What Does the Medical Examination Include?
The examination is simple and takes no more than 10-15 minutes. It includes:
• Vision test — checking your eyesight and ensuring no issues hinder driving.
• Hearing test — assessing your ability to hear warning sounds and vehicle noises.
• General examination — ensuring no uncontrolled chronic conditions that could affect driving, such as epilepsy or heart diseases.
• Blood pressure and sugar measurement — especially for those above a certain age.
Steps to Complete the Medical Examination
The steps are very simple and can be completed on the same day:
- Book an appointment — through the Sehati app, Absher, or by directly contacting the health center.
- State the purpose — inform the staff that you need a medical examination for a driver’s license.
- Undergo the examination — they will conduct the required tests.
- Receive the certificate — you will be given a medical examination certificate, valid for 60 days from the date of issue.
- Use it on Absher — upload the certificate or enter its details on the Absher platform to complete your license procedures.
How Much Does the Medical Examination Cost?
The medical examination at government centers is often free or charged at a nominal fee. At private centers, the cost varies depending on the center but usually ranges between 50 and 150 riyals. It is best to confirm the price before going.
Is the Medical Examination Necessary Even If You Are Healthy?
Yes, it is absolutely necessary. Even if you are in perfect health, the medical examination is a mandatory requirement for issuing or renewing a license. Without a valid medical examination certificate, you cannot complete the procedures on Absher.
Important Advice
Do not wait until the last moment! If your license is about to expire, complete the medical examination at least a month beforehand to ensure the certificate is still valid when you need to renew. Also, make sure the examination center is on the approved list, as certificates from unapproved centers will not be accepted by the General Traffic Department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the medical examination include a drug test?
No, the routine medical examination for a driver’s license does not include a drug test unless in special cases or when there is suspicion.
How long is the medical examination certificate valid?
The medical examination certificate is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. After that, you must undergo the examination again.
Can I undergo the medical examination at any private hospital?
No, the center must be approved by the General Traffic Department. You can verify this through Absher or the Sehati app.
Is the medical examination required for an international driver’s license?
Is a different medical examination required for the elderly?
The examination is usually the same, but it may be more comprehensive depending on the health condition. Some centers require additional tests for those over the age of 65.
Can I take the examination while fasting?
Fasting is not required for a regular examination, but if you have diabetes or high blood pressure and they require detailed tests, it is best to consult the center beforehand.
The medical examination is a simple and quick step that ensures your safety and the safety of others. Do not neglect it, and complete it well in advance before renewing your license 👍
