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🇸🇦Complete Guide 2026Updated March 2026

Saudi Arabia Driving Licence 2026
The Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about getting your driving licence in Saudi Arabia — Muroor theory test (20 MCQ, 85% pass mark), total cost (SAR 2,800–3,400 / ~$750–900 USD), 0.00% BAC (absolute zero), Saher camera enforcement, demerit points, Absher digital services, and Vision 2030 road safety reforms.

13
Provinces
20
Test Questions
4,423
Road Deaths (2023)
SAR 2.8–3.4K
Total Cost
13 ProvincesFee BreakdownSpeed LimitsTraffic FinesLicence Categories
Copy

4,423

Road deaths in Saudi Arabia (2023)

~13.6 per 100K — down 54% from 28.8/100K in 2016 — Muroor/WHO

Copy

~13.6

Deaths per 100,000 population

UAE ~3.5, Germany ~3.4, USA 12.2, UK 2.5 — Saudi Arabia improving rapidly

Copy

SAR 2.8–3.4K

Total cost for driving licence

~$750–900 USD including driving school + 10-year licence

Click any card to copy the stat with source attribution

Download Infographic

Key Findings

Theory TestMuroor / MOI

The Saudi driving theory test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 20 minutes via a computer-based exam. Pass mark: 85% (17/20 correct). The test is administered by Muroor (General Directorate of Traffic) at authorised driving schools. Questions cover traffic signs, road rules, right-of-way, and Saudi-specific regulations. Available in Arabic and English.

Total CostMuroor / MOI

SAR 2,800–3,400 (~$750–900 USD) for the complete driving licence process. This includes driving school enrolment and training, theory test fees, practical test fees, and licence issuance. Licence fees: 1-year SAR 40, 5-year SAR 200, 10-year SAR 400. Most applicants opt for the 10-year licence. Driving school training is mandatory — you cannot self-study and take the test directly.

Road DeathsMuroor / WHO / Vision 2030

4,423 fatalities in 2023 (~13.6 per 100K). Saudi Arabia has achieved a dramatic 54% reduction from 28.8/100K in 2016, driven by Saher camera expansion (320% increase), stricter enforcement, and Vision 2030 road safety initiatives. The Vision 2030 target is 8 deaths per 100K. Speed-related incidents remain the leading cause of fatalities.

BAC LimitSaudi Traffic Law

0.00% — absolute zero tolerance. Alcohol is illegal in Saudi Arabia. Any trace of alcohol while driving results in severe penalties including imprisonment, lashing (historically), deportation for expatriates, and 24 demerit points (instant suspension). This applies equally to all drivers regardless of nationality or residency status.

Demerit PointsMuroor / Saudi Traffic Law

Saudi Arabia uses a demerit points system: accumulating 24 points within one Hijri year results in licence suspension. Points per offence: red light 12 pts, phone use 2 pts, seatbelt 2 pts, speeding varies by severity. DUI and drifting (tafheet) carry an instant 24 points — automatic suspension. Points reset at the start of each Hijri year if below 24.

Global ContextMuroor / WHO / Vision 2030

Death rate ~13.6/100K vs UAE ~3.5, Germany ~3.4, USA 12.2, UK 2.5. Drives on the right. 0.00% BAC (strictest possible). Women legally driving since June 2018. Saher automated cameras detect 7+ violation types. Absher digital platform handles 280+ government services. Vision 2030 targeting 8 deaths/100K.

Saudi Arabia Road Safety: Vision 2030 Transformation (2016–2023)

According to Muroor and the WHO, Saudi Arabia recorded {deaths} in 2023. The Kingdom has achieved a remarkable 54% reduction in road deaths per capita, from 28.8/100K in 2016 to ~13.6/100K in 2023. This improvement is driven by the expansion of the Saher automated camera enforcement system (320% increase since 2016), stricter traffic laws, mandatory driving school training, and Vision 2030 road safety investments. The target is 8 deaths per 100K population.

2019
5,200
2020
4,900
2021
4,700
2022
4,500
2023
4,423

2019→2020

−5.8%

2020→2021

−4.1%

2021→2022

−4.3%

2022→2023

−1.7%

Deaths per 100,000 Population

🇸🇦Saudi Arabia
13.6
🇺🇸USA
12.2
🇦🇪UAE
3.5
🇩🇪Germany
3.4
🇬🇧UK
2.5

Source: Muroor (General Directorate of Traffic), Ministry of Interior, WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety, Vision 2030. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.

Table of Contents

Road Safety DataTheory Test FormatLicence ProcessFeesLicence CategoriesSpeed LimitsTraffic FinesImportant RulesRoad HazardsProvincesEmergency NumbersMisconceptionsRecent ChangesGlobal ComparisonFAQSourcesCite This Page
Muroor Exam

Saudi Arabia Theory Test Format#

Theory tests are administered by Muroor at authorised driving schools throughout the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia requires a computer-based theory test administered by Muroor (General Directorate of Traffic, المرور) at authorised driving schools. The test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 20 minutes. The pass mark is 85% — you must answer at least 17 out of 20 correctly. The test covers traffic signs, road rules, right-of-way, speed limits, and Saudi-specific regulations. Tests are available in Arabic and English. You must also pass 2 practical driving trials testing 16 competencies before receiving your licence.

Questions

20

Multiple-choice questions

Duration

20 Min

~1 min per question

Pass Mark

85%

17 out of 20 correct

Licence Fee

SAR 400

10-year licence

What the Theory Test Covers

Traffic Signs & Rules
  • Traffic signals, road signs, and road markings
  • Right-of-way rules and roundabout priority
  • Speed limits by road type (50–140 km/h)
  • Parking and stopping regulations
  • Pedestrian crossings and school zones
Vehicle & Safety
  • Seatbelt and child restraint regulations
  • Vehicle maintenance and Istimara (registration) requirements
  • Warning triangle and hazard light usage
  • Periodic vehicle inspection (Fahs)
  • Accident procedures and Najm reporting
Saudi-Specific Regulations
  • Zero-tolerance alcohol law (0.00% BAC)
  • Saher camera system and automated enforcement
  • Demerit points system (24 pts/Hijri year)
  • Desert and highway driving safety
  • Drifting (tafheet) penalties and consequences
moi.gov.saPractice Theory Questions Free
Step by Step

How to Get Your Saudi Driving Licence#

From enrolment to full licence — the complete step-by-step process

1

Enrol at an Authorised Driving School

Mandatory enrolment — cannot self-study

Register at a Muroor-authorised driving school. Training is mandatory in Saudi Arabia — you cannot take the test without completing a driving school programme. You must be at least 18 years old for a car licence. Bring your national ID (Iqama for residents, Saudi ID for citizens), passport photos, and medical fitness certificate. Women and men attend separate training sessions or schools.

2

Complete Theory Training

Classroom and online instruction on traffic rules and road safety

Complete the required theory training covering Saudi traffic law, road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, and emergency procedures. Training covers both general driving knowledge and Saudi-specific regulations including Saher, demerit points, and desert driving. Training is available in Arabic and English.

3

Pass the Theory Test

20 MCQ questions, 20 minutes, 85% pass mark (17/20)

The computer-based theory test consists of 20 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 20 minutes. Pass mark: 85% (17/20 correct). Covers traffic signs, road rules, and Saudi-specific regulations. Available in Arabic and English. You can retake the test if you fail, after a waiting period.

4

Complete Practical Driving Training

Learn driving skills at your driving school

Practical training includes basic vehicle control, parking, lane changes, roundabout navigation, highway merging, and defensive driving. Training typically involves 20–30 hours of practical instruction. You must complete all required training modules before taking the practical test.

5

Pass the Practical Driving Test

2 driving trials testing 16 competencies

The practical test consists of 2 driving trials evaluating 16 competencies including vehicle control, observation, signalling, lane discipline, speed management, and hazard awareness. Tests are conducted at the driving school circuit and on public roads. You must demonstrate safe and competent driving. Failing requires additional training before retaking.

6

Receive Your Driving Licence

Choose 1-year (SAR 40), 5-year (SAR 200), or 10-year (SAR 400) validity

Upon passing both tests, apply for your licence via Absher (online) or at a Muroor office. Choose your licence validity: 1-year (SAR 40), 5-year (SAR 200), or 10-year (SAR 400). Citizens receive up to 10-year validity. Non-citizens (residents) receive up to 5-year validity, tied to Iqama expiry. Your licence is issued digitally and physically.

Cost Breakdown

Saudi Arabia Driving Licence Fees#

Total cost typically SAR 2,800–3,400 (~$750–900 USD) including driving school and licence

Driving school enrolment and trainingSAR 2,000–2,600
Theory test feeIncluded in school
Practical test fee (2 trials)Included in school
Medical fitness certificateSAR 100–200
Licence issuance — 1 yearSAR 40
Licence issuance — 5 yearsSAR 200
Licence issuance — 10 yearsSAR 400
Additional training (if needed, per session)SAR 50–150
Total Typical (driving school + 10-year licence)SAR 2,800–3,400

Costs vary by driving school and region. Major cities (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam) tend to be at the higher end. Women's driving schools may have different pricing. Licence renewal via Absher (online): 1-year SAR 40, 5-year SAR 200, 10-year SAR 400. Non-citizens receive licences tied to Iqama validity (max 5 years). Exchange rate: approximately SAR 1 ≈ $0.27 USD (SAR 3.75 = $1 USD).

Categories

Licence Categories & Minimum Age

Motorcycle

16 years — two-wheeled vehicles

16

years

Private vehicle (car)

18 years — standard car licence

18

years

Taxi / ride-hailing

21 years — public transport

21

years

Heavy vehicle / truck

21 years — commercial vehicles

21

years

Licence Validity

Saudi citizens

Choose 1, 5, or 10-year validity

Up to 10 years
Non-citizens (residents)

Tied to Iqama validity

Up to 5 years
Foreign licence holders (visitors)

Must convert if becoming resident

3 months

Foreign Licence Conversion

  • Foreign licence holders can drive for up to 3 months on a valid foreign licence with IDP
  • Residents must convert to a Saudi licence — apply through Muroor or Absher
  • Licences from certain countries (GCC, some Western nations): simplified conversion process
  • Other foreign licences: must pass theory and practical tests at a driving school
  • All conversions require a valid medical fitness certificate and Iqama

Demerit Points System

  • Saudi Arabia uses a demerit points system administered by Muroor
  • 24 or more points in one Hijri year = licence suspension
  • DUI (any alcohol) = instant 24 points + arrest
  • Drifting (tafheet) = instant 24 points + vehicle confiscation
  • Running a red light: 12 demerit points
  • Phone use while driving: 2 demerit points
  • No seatbelt: 2 demerit points
  • Speeding: 2–6 demerit points depending on severity
Speed Limits

Speed Limits in Saudi Arabia#

As per Saudi Traffic Law — all speeds in km/h

Saudi Arabia has varying speed limits reflecting its diverse road network, from dense urban areas to long desert highways. School zones are limited to 50 km/h. Urban areas range from 60–80 km/h. Rural roads are 80–100 km/h. Major highways have a 120 km/h limit, while designated smart corridors allow up to 140 km/h. The Saher automated camera system enforces speed limits across the Kingdom — cameras detect speeding, red light violations, seatbelt infractions, and more. Fines for speeding range from SAR 150 to SAR 2,000 depending on severity.

Speed limits in Saudi Arabia by road type, in km/h. Source: Saudi Traffic Law / Muroor.
Road TypeCarsHeavy VehiclesNote
School Zones50–6050Near schools during operating hours
Urban Roads80–10080Within city limits
Rural Roads12080Between cities and towns
Highways140—Major intercity routes

School Zones

50–60

Cars

50

Heavy

Near schools during operating hours

Urban Roads

80–100

Cars

80

Heavy

Within city limits

Rural Roads

120

Cars

80

Heavy

Between cities and towns

Highways

140

Cars

—

Heavy

Major intercity routes

Heavy vehicles are subject to lower speed limits than cars on all road types. Saher cameras enforce speed limits automatically — fines are sent via SMS and posted to Absher. Speeding fines: SAR 150–300 (minor), SAR 300–500 (moderate), SAR 500–900 (serious), SAR 900–2,000 (severe). Points: 2–6 depending on severity. Smart corridors (up to 140 km/h) are found on selected routes like the Riyadh–Dammam expressway. Always observe posted signs.

Traffic Fines

Traffic Fines & Penalties#

Fines, demerit points, and additional penalties for common violations in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia enforces traffic laws strictly through the Saher automated camera system and Muroor patrols. The demerit points system means 24 points in one Hijri year triggers suspension. DUI and drifting carry instant 24-point suspensions. Fines are payable via Absher or at banks. Unpaid fines can block vehicle registration renewal and travel. For serious offences (DUI, drifting, dangerous driving), penalties include imprisonment, vehicle confiscation, and deportation for expatriates.

Traffic fines and penalties in Saudi Arabia. Amounts in SAR. Source: Saudi Traffic Law / Muroor.
ViolationFine (SAR)PointsOther
Speeding — minor (up to 20 km/h over)SAR 150–30024Vehicle confiscation
Speeding — moderate (20–30 km/h over)SAR 300–50024Imprisonment
Speeding — serious (30–50 km/h over)SAR 500–90012—
Speeding — severe (50+ km/h over)SAR 900–2,00012—
Running a red lightSAR 3,000–6,0006—
Phone use while drivingSAR 9004—
No seatbeltSAR 150–3002—
Drifting (tafheet) — 1st offenceSAR 20,0002—
Drifting (tafheet) — 2nd offenceSAR 40,0002—
Drifting (tafheet) — 3rd offenceSAR 60,0004—
DUI (any alcohol)Imprisonment—Vehicle seized
Driving without a licenceSAR 500–900——

Speeding — minor (up to 20 km/h over)

SAR 150–300Pts: 24 · Vehicle confiscation

Speeding — moderate (20–30 km/h over)

SAR 300–500Pts: 24 · Imprisonment

Speeding — serious (30–50 km/h over)

SAR 500–900Pts: 12

Speeding — severe (50+ km/h over)

SAR 900–2,000Pts: 12

Running a red light

SAR 3,000–6,000Pts: 6

Phone use while driving

SAR 900Pts: 4

No seatbelt

SAR 150–300Pts: 2

Drifting (tafheet) — 1st offence

SAR 20,000Pts: 2

Drifting (tafheet) — 2nd offence

SAR 40,000Pts: 2

Drifting (tafheet) — 3rd offence

SAR 60,000Pts: 4

DUI (any alcohol)

Imprisonment · Vehicle seized

Driving without a licence

SAR 500–900

Red light violation: SAR 3,000–6,000 + 12 demerit points + possible vehicle impoundment. Phone use: SAR 900 + 2 demerit points. Seatbelt: SAR 150–300 + 2 demerit points. Drifting (tafheet): escalating fines SAR 20,000–60,000 + vehicle confiscation + 24 demerit points + possible imprisonment. DUI: imprisonment + deportation (expats) + 24 demerit points. All fines visible on Absher. Unpaid fines block Istimara renewal and may prevent travel.

Know these rules before your theory test

Traffic fines, speed limits, BAC rules, and demerit points are frequently tested in the Muroor theory exam. Practice with real exam-style questions.

Start Practising Free
Key Rules

Important Driving Rules in Saudi Arabia

Drive on the Right

Saudi Arabia drives on the right side of the road. Overtake only on the left. At roundabouts, traffic already in the roundabout has priority. Left-hand drive vehicles are standard.

BAC Limit 0.00% — Absolute Zero

Alcohol is completely illegal in Saudi Arabia. Zero tolerance for any alcohol while driving. Penalties include imprisonment, 24 demerit points (instant suspension), and deportation for expatriates. This applies to ALL drivers regardless of nationality.

Saher Camera Enforcement

Saher is Saudi Arabia's automated camera enforcement system, expanded 320% since 2016. Cameras detect 7+ violation types: speeding, red light running, seatbelt violations, phone use, illegal lane changes, tailgating, and more. AI-enhanced cameras (radar, 360-degree, ANPR) are being deployed in 2025–2026.

Absher Digital Services

Absher is Saudi Arabia's digital government platform handling 280+ services. For driving: licence renewal, fine payment, vehicle registration, traffic violation history, and licence status. Available as a mobile app and website. Most driving-related transactions no longer require visiting a Muroor office.

Drifting (Tafheet) Strictly Prohibited

Drifting (tafheet / تفحيط) carries among the harshest penalties in Saudi traffic law. 1st offence: SAR 20,000 fine. 2nd: SAR 40,000. 3rd: SAR 60,000 + vehicle confiscation. All offences carry 24 demerit points (instant suspension) and possible imprisonment. Vehicles used for drifting may be permanently confiscated.

Mandatory Equipment

All vehicles must carry a warning triangle and fire extinguisher. Third-party motor insurance is mandatory. Vehicle registration (Istimara) must be current. Vehicles must pass periodic inspection (Fahs). Tinted windows must comply with regulations — excessive tinting is fined.

Child Seat Rules

Children under 10 years old must sit in the rear seat. Child restraints are required for young children. The driver is responsible for ensuring all passengers are properly restrained. Front-seat child passengers are subject to fines.

Phone Use Prohibited

Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. Fine: SAR 900 + 2 demerit points. Only hands-free systems are permitted. Saher cameras can detect phone use. Repeat offences lead to increased fines and demerit points.

Seatbelt Mandatory

All occupants must wear seatbelts — front and rear. Fine for not wearing a seatbelt: SAR 150–300 + 2 demerit points. The driver is responsible for ensuring all passengers are properly belted. Saher cameras detect seatbelt violations.

Stay Safe

Common Road Hazards in Saudi Arabia

4,423 road fatalities in 2023 — know these hazards to stay safe on Saudi roads

Desert Sand & Dust Storms

Saudi Arabia's desert climate means sand can blow across roads, reducing visibility to near zero during dust storms (shamal). Sand accumulation on road surfaces reduces traction significantly. During dust storms, pull over safely, turn off headlights (to avoid attracting other drivers), and wait for conditions to improve.

Extreme Heat

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 50°C in many regions. Extreme heat causes tyre blowouts (a major cause of highway accidents), vehicle overheating, and driver fatigue. Always check tyre pressure before long journeys and carry extra water. Avoid long drives during peak heat (12:00–3:00 PM).

High-Speed Highway Driving

Saudi highways allow speeds up to 120–140 km/h, and long straight desert roads can encourage even faster driving. Speed is the leading cause of road fatalities. Maintain safe following distances, take regular rest breaks on long journeys, and never exceed posted limits. Saher cameras are widespread.

Flash Floods (Seyl)

Despite being a desert country, Saudi Arabia experiences sudden, intense rainfall that causes flash floods (seyl), particularly in wadis (dry riverbeds) and low-lying urban areas. Floodwater can sweep vehicles off roads. Never attempt to cross flooded areas — turn around.

Camel & Wildlife Crossings

Camels and other livestock frequently cross desert highways, particularly at dawn and dusk. A collision with a camel at highway speeds is often fatal. Watch for camel crossing signs, reduce speed in known crossing areas, and be especially vigilant at night when camels are nearly invisible.

Construction Zones

Saudi Arabia's massive infrastructure development under Vision 2030 (including NEOM, Riyadh Metro, and highway expansions) means frequent road works and diversions. Temporary speed limits and lane closures are common. Follow advisory signs and reduce speed through construction zones.

Provinces

Saudi Arabia's 13 Provinces

Saudi Arabia has 13 administrative provinces (regions), each with its own Muroor traffic department

Saudi Arabia's 13 provinces with their administrative capitals.
ProvinceCapitalNote
RiyadhRiyadh8.6M
MakkahMakkah9.0M
MadinahMadinah2.3M
Eastern ProvinceDammam5.3M
Al QassimBuraydah1.5M
AsirAbha2.3M
TabukTabuk0.9M
Ha'ilHa'il0.7M
Northern BordersArar0.4M
JazanJazan1.7M
NajranNajran0.6M
Al BahahAl Bahah0.5M
Al JawfSakakah0.5M
RIY

Riyadh

Riyadh · 8.6M

MAK

Makkah

Makkah · 9.0M

MAD

Madinah

Madinah · 2.3M

EAS

Eastern Province

Dammam · 5.3M

AL

Al Qassim

Buraydah · 1.5M

ASI

Asir

Abha · 2.3M

TAB

Tabuk

Tabuk · 0.9M

HA'

Ha'il

Ha'il · 0.7M

NOR

Northern Borders

Arar · 0.4M

JAZ

Jazan

Jazan · 1.7M

NAJ

Najran

Najran · 0.6M

AL

Al Bahah

Al Bahah · 0.5M

AL

Al Jawf

Sakakah · 0.5M

Saudi driving rules and traffic law apply uniformly across all 13 provinces. Muroor operates regional offices in each provincial capital. Driving school availability varies — major cities (Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam) have the most options. Licence obtained in any province is valid nationwide.

Emergency

Emergency Numbers

All available 24/7. {number} is the unified emergency number.

911

Unified Emergency Number

997

Red Crescent (Ambulance)

998

Civil Defense (Fire)

999

Police

993

Traffic Accidents (Najm)

Myth vs Fact

Common Misconceptions About Driving in Saudi Arabia#

Myth: Women can't drive in Saudi Arabia

Fact: Women have been legally driving since June 24, 2018. Over 1.5 million women now hold driving licences. Women's driving schools operate across the Kingdom, and women take the same theory and practical tests as men.

Myth: Saudi Arabia has the world's most dangerous roads

Fact: Saudi Arabia's road death rate has dropped 54% from 28.8/100K (2016) to ~13.6/100K (2023) — a massive improvement under Vision 2030. While still above the global average, the trajectory is one of the fastest improvements worldwide. The target is 8/100K.

Myth: You can drive on an international licence indefinitely

Fact: A foreign licence with IDP is valid for a maximum of 3 months. If you become a resident (Iqama holder), you must convert to a Saudi driving licence. Driving on an expired foreign licence is a traffic violation.

Myth: Speed cameras only check speed

Fact: Saher cameras detect 7+ violation types: speeding, red light running, seatbelt violations, phone use, illegal lane changes, tailgating, and more. AI-enhanced cameras being deployed in 2025–2026 add radar, 360-degree coverage, and ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition).

Myth: Drifting penalties are just fines

Fact: Drifting (tafheet) carries SAR 20,000–60,000 in escalating fines PLUS vehicle confiscation, possible imprisonment, and 24 demerit points (instant licence suspension). Vehicles used for drifting may be permanently confiscated, and repeat offenders face criminal prosecution.

Myth: Alcohol penalties only apply to Saudi citizens

Fact: Zero tolerance applies to ALL drivers regardless of nationality. Penalties include imprisonment and 24 demerit points for all. Expatriates additionally face deportation. There are no exceptions for diplomatic or foreign status when it comes to DUI enforcement.

Timeline

Recent Changes to Saudi Arabia Driving Laws#

Key regulatory updates affecting drivers in Saudi Arabia

Jun 2018

Women allowed to drive — historic royal decree implemented

On June 24, 2018, Saudi Arabia lifted the world's last remaining ban on women driving. Women can now obtain driving licences, attend driving schools, and drive on all public roads. Over 1.5 million women have since obtained licences.

2019–2021

Saher camera network expanded 320%

The Saher automated enforcement camera network was massively expanded between 2019 and 2021, with a 320% increase in camera deployment across the Kingdom. This expansion is credited as a major factor in reducing road fatalities.

Jan 2025

Riyadh Metro fully operational — 176 km, 6 lines

The Riyadh Metro, one of the world's largest metro construction projects, became fully operational in January 2025 with 176 km of track and 6 lines. This provides a major public transport alternative in the capital, reducing road congestion and traffic incidents.

2025–2026

AI-enhanced Saher cameras deployed — radar, 360-degree, ANPR

New AI-enhanced Saher cameras are being deployed featuring radar technology, 360-degree coverage, and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR). These cameras can detect a wider range of violations with greater accuracy.

Ongoing

Vision 2030 road safety target — 8 deaths per 100K population

Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 programme has set a road safety target of reducing traffic fatalities to 8 per 100,000 population, down from the current ~13.6/100K and 28.8/100K in 2016. Strategies include infrastructure investment, enforcement technology, driver education, and public transport expansion.

Global Context

How Saudi Arabia Compares Globally#

Saudi Arabia driving regulations compared to other countries — data compiled from official government sources

Comparison of driving regulations between Saudi Arabia, UAE, Germany, USA, and UK including BAC limits, minimum age, speed limits, licence costs, and road fatality statistics.
ParameterSaudi ArabiaUAEGermanyUSAUK
BAC Limit0.0%0.0%0.05%0.08%0.08%
Min. Age (Car)1818181617
Driving SideRightRightRightRightLeft
Highway Speed120–140120–140No limit*105–137112
Test Questions20–303530 MCQ20–5050
Licence CostSAR 2–4KAED 4.5–7K€2–3.5K$30–90£1–1.5K
Road Deaths/yr4,423~3522,83940,9011,711
Deaths/100K~13.6~3.5~3.412.2~2.5
BAC Limit0.00%

Absolute zero — alcohol is illegal. UAE also 0.00%. Germany 0.05%, USA 0.08%, UK 0.08%. Saudi Arabia has the strictest possible BAC limit.

Min. Age (Car)18 years

Same as UAE and Germany. USA allows from 16. UK from 17. Heavy vehicles and public transport require 21 in Saudi Arabia.

Highway Speed120 km/h

Standard highways 120 km/h, smart corridors up to 140 km/h. UAE 120–140, Germany no limit* on Autobahn, USA 105–137, UK 112.

Licence CostSAR 2.8–3.4K

~$750–900 USD total. UAE AED 4.5–7K (~$1,200–1,900), Germany €2–3.5K (~$2,200–3,800), USA $30–90, UK £200–1,500.

Road Deaths4,423/yr

~13.6 per 100K, down 54% from 2016. UAE ~352 (~3.5/100K), Germany 2,839 (~3.4/100K), USA 40,901 (12.2/100K), UK 1,695 (2.5/100K).

Road deaths: Saudi Arabia 4,423 (Muroor 2023), UAE ~352 (MOI 2024), Germany 2,839 (Destatis 2023), USA 40,901 (NHTSA 2023), UK 1,695 (DfT 2023). Per-100K rates calculated from national population data. *Germany has no general speed limit on certain Autobahn sections. Saudi Arabia's smart corridors allow up to 140 km/h on designated routes.

Fact-Checked

Sources & Methodology

Primary Sources

  • Muroor / Ministry of Interior — Driving licences, traffic law, road safety — General Directorate of Traffic (moi.gov.sa)
  • Absher — Digital licence services, fine payment, vehicle registration — Absher Platform (absher.sa)
  • Saudi National Platform — Government services and regulations — my.gov.sa
  • Saudi Traffic Law — Traffic regulations and penalties — Bureau of Experts (laws.boe.gov.sa)
  • WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety — International road death data — World Health Organization (who.int)
  • Vision 2030 — Road safety targets and national transformation — Vision 2030 (vision2030.gov.sa)

Verification Methodology

Every fact on this page has been cross-referenced against at least two authoritative sources. Our process:

  1. Primary data collected from official Muroor publications, Saudi Traffic Law (laws.boe.gov.sa), and MOI statistics
  2. Cross-verified against Absher, my.gov.sa, WHO, and Vision 2030 reports
  3. National regulations apply uniformly across all 13 provinces — no regional variations in traffic law
  4. Page reviewed and fact-checked on {date}

If you find an error, please contact us so we can correct it immediately.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Saudi driving licence cost?
The total cost is SAR 2,800–3,400 (~$750–900 USD), including driving school enrolment and training (SAR 2,000–2,600), medical certificate (SAR 100–200), and licence issuance (1-year SAR 40, 5-year SAR 200, 10-year SAR 400). Most applicants choose the 10-year licence.
What is the theory test format?
20 multiple-choice questions, 20 minutes, 85% pass mark (17/20 correct). Computer-based at authorised driving schools. Covers traffic signs, road rules, and Saudi-specific regulations. Available in Arabic and English.
What are the speed limits in Saudi Arabia?
School zones: 50 km/h. Urban: 60–80 km/h. Rural: 80–100 km/h. Highways: 120 km/h. Smart corridors: up to 140 km/h. Saher cameras enforce limits automatically.
What is the BAC limit?
0.00% — absolute zero tolerance. Alcohol is illegal in Saudi Arabia. Any trace of alcohol while driving results in imprisonment, 24 demerit points, and deportation for expatriates.
When were women allowed to drive?
Women have been legally driving since June 24, 2018. Over 1.5 million women now hold driving licences. Women attend authorised driving schools and take the same tests as men.
How does the demerit points system work?
24 points in one Hijri year = suspension. Red light: 12 pts. Phone use: 2 pts. Seatbelt: 2 pts. Speeding: 2–6 pts. DUI and drifting: instant 24 pts (automatic suspension). Points reset at start of each Hijri year if below 24.
What is the Saher camera system?
Saher is Saudi Arabia's automated camera enforcement network, expanded 320% since 2016. Cameras detect 7+ violations: speeding, red lights, seatbelt, phone use, lane changes, tailgating, and more. AI-enhanced cameras deploying 2025–2026.
Can I drive with a foreign licence?
Visitors: up to 3 months with a valid foreign licence and IDP. Residents must convert to a Saudi licence. GCC and some Western licences have simplified conversion. Others require theory and practical tests.
What are the emergency numbers?
Unified emergency: 911. Red Crescent (ambulance): 997. Civil Defense (fire): 998. Police: 999. Traffic accidents (Najm): 993. All toll-free, 24/7.
What is Absher and how does it work for driving?
Absher is Saudi Arabia's digital government platform handling 280+ services. For driving: licence renewal, fine payment, vehicle registration (Istimara), traffic violation history, and licence status. Available as mobile app and website — most transactions no longer require visiting a Muroor office.
What are the penalties for drifting (tafheet)?
1st offence: SAR 20,000 fine. 2nd: SAR 40,000. 3rd: SAR 60,000 + vehicle confiscation. All offences carry 24 demerit points (instant suspension) and possible imprisonment. Vehicles may be permanently confiscated.
What is the fine for using a phone while driving?
SAR 900 fine + 2 demerit points. Only hands-free systems are permitted. Saher cameras can detect phone use. Repeat offences lead to increased fines.
How long is a Saudi driving licence valid?
Citizens: up to 10 years (choose 1, 5, or 10-year validity). Non-citizens (residents): up to 5 years, tied to Iqama validity. Renewal via Absher (online) or Muroor office.
What documents do I need to get a licence?
National ID (Saudi ID for citizens, Iqama for residents), passport photos, medical fitness certificate, proof of driving school enrolment, and test pass certificates. Foreign licence conversion also requires original foreign licence and translation.
How old do you have to be to drive in Saudi Arabia?
Car: 18 years. Motorcycle: 16 years. Heavy vehicle and public transport: 21 years. No provisional or learner licence available under the minimum age.

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AutoviaTest

Last updated: March 26, 2026Reviewed by AutoviaTest editorial team

Data sourced from Muroor / Ministry of Interior (moi.gov.sa), Absher (absher.sa), Saudi National Platform (my.gov.sa), and Saudi Traffic Law (laws.boe.gov.sa).

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