Acquiring driver’s license in Saudi Arabia is quite easy and somehow convenient. Here are some tips to consider before visiting the nearest Dallah licensing office in your area:
- Prepare for the documentary requirements. First things first. Make sure you have all the required documents before going to the licensing office (Dallah Office), to avoid unnecessary delays and additional costs. The following are the required documents:
- IQAMA (resident permit). This is required in any government transactions.
- Driver’s license from country of origin. It not a requirement but it may waive you from undergoing the required schooling. If you have driver’s license from your country (not expired) you need it translated by the authorized translator.
- ID pictures (4 copies passport size). Photo booth is available anyway at the testing area but it will cost you around 30 SAR.
- Medical Report. Clinics for medical and eye check-ups are available at Dallah licensing offices, but you can also get tested from accredited clinics outside prior to visiting the Dallah licensing office. You may also be required to donate blood for around 360cc.
- License fee. Bring with you around 700 SAR (200 SAR 5-year license fee, 70 SAR processing fee, 430 SAR schooling fee). License fee for 10-years is 400 SAR. (NOTE: this may vary according to the current price set by the licensing authority.)
- Visit the Dallah licensing office nearest to your place, preferably early morning, around 7:00 to avoid long queues. At Jeddah Saudi Arabia, there are three locations; Dallah licensing office Falestine, Dallah licensing office Shamal (North) and Dallah licensing office Janub (South). Falestine office is the busiest one, so choose either of the two for fastest processing.
- Practical driving test. After submitting your necessary documents and paying for the license fees, you will undergo driving test. They will check your driving skills and observe some basic things like, proper posture or how you position yourself in the drivers seat. It is a must that you adjust your seat to fit you comfortably before turning the car engine on. Fasten your seat-belt, adjust your mirrors, (side mirrors and rear view mirror) and listen to your proctor’s instructions. Note: You must have at least basic understanding of Arabic directional words like Ru (go) or Yalla Ru (Lets go), Yasar (Left), Yamin (Right), Sida (Go straight), Waqif (Stop) because some of the proctor if not all, can not speak English, so better equipped yourself. During the testing you are particularly observe on the following, your ability to control of the steering wheel, use of accelerator, use of hand brake, use of foot brake, how to launch (set in motion) the vehicle, use of signal lights, how to turn left, how to turn right and your alertness to traffic signs. Don’t get nervous, keep calm all the time.
- Taking driving lessons. The result of your practical driving test will determine the number of days you will spend for driving lessons. If you failed they will give you thirty (30) days, otherwise, five (5) days. Nevertheless, do not take it negatively, it is all for your safety. Take time to learn and make sure your time worth it.
- Computer examination. After your schooling you will get scheduled for the computer examination. They will test your knowledge about traffic rules, road signs, Saudi Arabia Points System policy for traffic violations and principles of traffic safety. The exam is comprise of around 20 multiple choice questions and you have 30 minutes to finish. Make sure of your answer, if you make 4 consecutive wrong answer, your done. The computer will close. If your not sure with your answer, choose skip button to change the question.
- Review and get appropriate reviewers. Anyway if you have your driving license before you may be familiar with traffic signs and regulations. However I suggest, you have to refresh them yourself and take time to review, it will save your time. You may get reviewers at the Dallah licensing offices (they will provide you while schooling) but make sure you have a good one because some of the English translations are hard to understand and sometimes confusing. Otherwise check the one I found below.
