International Driving Permit Saudi Arabia needs to be issued before arrival at the home country. It ensures a smooth car rental experience at the airport or in the city. You can enjoy self drive with your rental car without any hassle with the right documents handy. Check out how to apply for an IDP to drive in Saudi Arabia here before you plan your trip.
How to Apply for an IDP in Saudi Arabia?
To mention the IDP application process, it needs to be said that you need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) through an authorised agent in the home country where your original driving license was issued. However, the process varies based on your location such as India, UK or USA. Here is the process for each country:
India:
If you are from India, you can apply for an international driving license in Saudi Arabia via government services portal such as the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways online (India). Once you complete the process and pay the fee, you can receive your permit within 3 to 7 working days. You can visit the RTO office for offline applications alternatively.
USA:
If you are from the USA, you can apply for an international driving permit in Saudi Arabia via mail or by visiting the American Automobile Association (AAA).
UK:
You can apply for an international license in Saudi Arabia via Post Office branches offline or online via Post Office International Driving Permit service (UK).
Why Do You Need an IDP In Saudi Arabia?
It is a legal requirement in Saudi Arabia to carry an IDP to drive rental cars. Further, your rental car booking will be rejected if you do not carry an IDP. If your driving license is not printed in English or Arabic, you mandatorily need an IDP. Moreover, if you are from a country exempted by Saudi Arabia driving guidelines, you will need an IDP to drive a rental car. It additionally ensures that you meet the minimum age requirement of 21 years or 25 years to drive a rental car in Saudi Arabia.
Key Requirements for IDP in Saudi Arabia
To apply for an IDP, you need a valid home country driving license, passport, Saudi Arabia tourist visa, passport-sized photographs (usually 2 copies) and application fee. Ensure your driving license and passport remains valid during your trip dates. Notably, driving in Saudi Arabia with international license is essential to avoid hefty fines and penalties.
Essential Driving Rules in Saudi Arabia
An IDP usually remains valid for the first 3 months of arrival in Saudi Arabia. If you plan a longer stay, ensure you apply for a temporary Saudi Arabia driving license. You need to carry the necessary documents while visiting Saudi Arabia such as passport, visa and driving license issued in the home country. Ensure you drive on the right side of the road in Saudi Arabia.
You can rent a car in Saudi Arabia with your IDP issued in your home country. Notably, monthly car rental in Riyadh is usually more cost-effective compared to weekly car rentals. You can choose cheap car rental In Riyadh with Selfdrive with included insurance and 24*7 road side assistance.
Final Words
International Driving Permit Saudi Arabia helps you rent a car and enjoy self drive in the country. You can choose rental cars across fleets, brands and models with Selfdrive to enjoy a ride in Saudi Arabia. Ensure you book your rental car in advance to get guaranteed vehicles on the desired date and time without delay.
Download the Selfdrive App or Call us / WhatsApp us directly at +966 11 486 9166 to unlock the best daily & weekly, and monthly deals across the Kingdom.