The international driving licence: what to know before you travel
It does not replace your Saudi licence, and some countries will not rent to you without it. Here is the full picture.
The international licence is a certified translation of your national licence, not a substitute for it. You must carry both while driving abroad, otherwise you are considered to be driving without a licence.
Most car hire companies in Europe ask for it explicitly at collection, and some refuse to release the vehicle without it even if the booking was made and paid for in advance.
It is valid for one or three years depending on the type issued, and it is tied to the validity of your national licence — if the national one expires, the international one falls with it.
Issuing it does not require a new driving test. Only four documents: a valid Saudi licence, your ID or iqama, a passport photo, and a copy of your passport.
We recommend issuing it at least a week before you travel, although express issuing within one working day is possible.
Read next
Iqama renewal document checklist — without repeat visits
Getting the order of steps right saves you days. This checklist covers the most common situations.
Travel & TourismWhen should you travel to Europe? A guide to seasons and prices
The difference between travelling in June and in September can exceed 30% in cost — with better weather and smaller crowds.
VisasFive mistakes that sink a Schengen visa application
Most refusals are not about your finances — they come down to small details in the file that could have been fixed before submitting.
UncategorizedHello world!
Ready to start your journey?
Send us your request and a specialist will contact you within minutes during working hours — no commitment, no consultation fee.