Driving License Renewal for Expatriates in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

This article is a simplified guide that explains everything you need to renew your driving license as a resident (expatriate) in Saudi Arabia, from the requirements to the application process and important tips.

1. What is the Service?

The driving license renewal service for expatriates allows residents to update the validity of their driving licenses after they expire, either through official electronic channels or by visiting the Traffic Department.

2. Conditions and Requirements

  • A valid residence permit (Iqama) with at least three months remaining at the time of application.
  • A valid passport.
  • No traffic violations that prevent renewal (you can check via Absher).
  • Completion of the required vision test for categories that require it (usually for professional categories or if the age is over 60 years).
  • Payment of the prescribed renewal fees.

3. Detailed Steps (Step-by-Step)

  1. Access the Absher platform (Individuals) via the website absher.sa or the Tawakkalna app.
  2. Log in using your username and password, then verify via an SMS message or the Absher app.
  3. Select Services → Traffic → Driving License Renewal.
  4. Review your personal data and confirm its accuracy (name, Iqama number, license number).
  5. Ensure there are no traffic violations; if any exist, they must be paid first.
  6. Select the renewal period (usually 10 years for a private license) and agree to the terms.
  7. Pay the fees using the available payment methods (credit card, bank transfer, or Mada).
  8. After payment, you will receive a confirmation notification and a request number.
  9. You can:
    • Print the temporary license immediately from the platform.
    • Request delivery of the plastic card via Saudi Post (usually arrives within 3–5 business days).
  10. Keep the payment receipt and request number as proof until you receive the final card.

4. Cost (If Known)

According to available information from the General Directorate of Traffic, the fee for renewing a private driving license for expatriates is approximately 100 Saudi Riyals for a 10-year renewal period. The cost may vary depending on the category (e.g., heavy vehicles or buses) or if the renewal is for a shorter period. To confirm the exact amount, please consult the relevant authority or the service page on Absher.

5. Processing Time

After completing the payment and fulfilling the requirements, the temporary license is issued immediately via the platform. The final plastic card is sent via Saudi Post and usually arrives within 3 to 5 business days from the date of the request.

6. Responsible Authority

The authority responsible for the driving license renewal service is the Ministry of Interior – General Directorate of Traffic (Traffic Department).

7. Application Method (Online)

  • Absher platform (Individuals) – website or app.
  • Tawakkalna app (offers the same service after linking with Absher).
  • Ziyaرة فرعية لإدارة المرور في منطقتك إذا preferred التعامل الشخصي.
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8. نصائح مهمة

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  • تأكد من صلاحية إقامتك قبل البدء؛ إذا كانت الإقامة على وشك الانتهاء، جددها أولًا.
  • تحقق من وجود أي مخالفات مرورية عبر خدمة “المخالفات” في أبشر وسددها لتجنب رفض الطلب.
  • احتفظ بنسخة رقمية من إيصال الدفع ورقم الطلب للاستعانة به في حالة التأخير.
  • إذا كنت بحاجة إلى فحص نظر، حدد موعدًا في أحد المراكز المعتمدة قبل تقديم الطلب.
  • بعد استلام البطاقة البلاستيكية، تحقق من صحة البيانات الم printed عليها؛ في حال وجود خطأ، راجع المرور فورًا لتصحيحه.
  • استخدم خدمة الإشعارات في أبشر لتذكيرك بموعد انتهاء الرخصة القادمة لتجنب الانتهاء المفاجئ.
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باتباع هذه الخطوات والنصائح، يمكنك تجديد رخصتك القيادة بسهولة وسرعة دون الحاجة إلى مراجعة طويلة أو تعقيدات. لل cualquier استفسار إضافي، لا تتردد في التواصل مع خدمة العملاء في أبشر أو زيارة أقرب مكتب مرور.

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