🇸🇦 Do you need an IDP to drive in Saudi Arabia?

Depends on your licence· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

Driving in Saudi Arabia: the rule explained

Visitors may legally drive in Saudi Arabia on a valid foreign or international licence for up to one year from arrival (Traffic Law Article 42). An IDP is recognised but is not a standalone document — it must be carried together with the original home-country licence. If the home licence is not in Arabic or English, an IDP or certified Arabic translation is effectively required so traffic officers can verify the details.

Exemption: GCC nationals and residents drive on their valid GCC-issued licence and do not need an IDP; holders of Arabic-language licences do not need a translation.

Renting a car in Saudi Arabia

Rental companies routinely require a foreign driver to present an IDP (or Arabic translation) alongside the original licence, plus passport and visit-visa copy; minimum rental age is typically 21.

Motorcycles & scooters: To ride a motorcycle the IDP/foreign licence must specifically cover the motorcycle category.

What to carry when driving in Saudi Arabia

Original driving license (physical card)
Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
Translation companion or certified translation of your license
Proof of insurance covering the destination
Carry the original physical home-country licence together with the IDP/Arabic translation — the IDP alone is not valid
GCC nationals/residents use their valid GCC licence directly

Check your exact trip

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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Saudi Arabia: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Saudi Arabia?

It depends on the country that issued your licence — Saudi Arabia accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Confirm the rule for your specific licence before you travel. Visitors may legally drive in Saudi Arabia on a valid foreign or international licence for up to one year from arrival (Traffic Law Article 42). An IDP is recognised but is not a standalone document — it must be carried together with the original home-country licence. If the home licence is not in Arabic or English, an IDP or certified Arabic translation is effectively required so traffic officers can verify the details.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Saudi Arabia?

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Saudi Arabia read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.

What do I need to rent a car in Saudi Arabia?

Rental companies routinely require a foreign driver to present an IDP (or Arabic translation) alongside the original licence, plus passport and visit-visa copy; minimum rental age is typically 21.

Which IDP convention does Saudi Arabia use?

Saudi Arabia recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? See how to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements vary by country. Carry your translation together with your original driving licence and passport; some countries require an official IDP issued by an authorised body in your country of licence. Information provided is general guidance. Always check local regulations for your destination.