Saudi Arabia has announced that nationals from 48 countries can now directly convert their foreign driving licences into Saudi licences — bypassing the need to attend a full driving-test or retraining.

The change streamlines the process for expatriates and foreign residents seeking to drive legally in the Kingdom.

Under the new scheme, applicants must follow a five-step procedure: first, get their foreign licence officially translated into Arabic; then book an appointment using the government’s Absher platform; pay the required licence fee through Sadad; undergo a medical examination; and finally visit a Muroor (traffic police) office to complete the procedure.

For eligible licence-holders, once the paperwork is submitted and approved, the Saudi licence is issued without any driving test.

If an applicant’s licence comes from a country not on the approved list, they must follow the standard application process — which typically includes lessons and passing Saudi theory and practical driving tests before receiving a licence.

The policy offers clarity for new arrivals and long-term expatriates alike, and reduces bureaucratic friction for those relocating to Saudi Arabia.

Countries eligible under the new conversion regime cover a broad swath, including European nations (such as Germany, France, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Sweden), North America (United States, Canada), Asia-Pacific (Australia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore), Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, and some other countries such as South Africa and China.

The new licence conversion policy reflects ongoing efforts by Saudi authorities to simplify residency and mobility regulations for foreign residents, and to integrate expatriates more easily into everyday life in the Kingdom.