Can Women Drive in Saudi Arabia? Rules for Locals, Foreigners And Expats

Women are allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia. Women have been allowed to drive in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since June 24, 2018. This is all under a comprehensive legislative reform effort to reengineer social mores, upgrade women's work status, and promote gender equality.

If you would like to learn more about Saudi Arabia’s women-driving laws, please read the section below.

History of Women's Driving Ban in Saudi Arabia

Saudi women relied on male guardians, drivers, or ride-hailing until 2018 for transport. The ban on driving was not a legal prohibition but an imposed cultural and religious norm.

Saudi Arabia lifted its ban on women driving, allowing them to obtain licenses starting in June 2018

Can Women Drive in Saudi Arabia in 2025?

Yes. Women in the Kingdom are now entitled to drive, a new level of freedom. More women are entering the workforce, and families have also started cutting down on the number of drivers they employ. More women are also beginning to work for ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Careem.

Can Women Drive Motorcycles in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, women in Saudi Arabia can now obtain driver's licenses and drive cars just like men. In September 2017, King Salman issued a decree permitting women to obtain driving licenses, which came into effect in June 2018

Key Points About Women Driving in Saudi Arabia

• Date of Legalization: June 24, 2018
• License Restrictions: Women are eligible to get a Saudi driver’s license after passing the requisite driving test.
• License Requirements: Women can drive without the requirement of a male custodian.
• Benefits: More freedom, employment, and social status in society for women.

Legal Rights and Licensing Process

Legal Rights

Women are now allowed to drive and legally obtain a driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle in Saudi Arabia. There is no distinction between the genders when it comes to driving a car.

How Women Obtain a Driver's License

Women in Saudi Arabia can now obtain a driver's license just like men. They can apply for a driver's license at any Department of Traffic office. The steps to follow in order to finalize the process are:

• Enrolling and training on driving at registered driving schools.
• Passing a vision test and a written exam on road safety.
• Completing a practical driving test.
• Receiving a Saudi driver’s license upon successful completion.

Saudi women can now obtain a driver's license without requiring their guardian’s approval

Driving Schools

Several driving schools across the country offer training programs specifically for women.

These schools are equipped with female instructors to accommodate cultural sensitivities.

Driving as a Female Tourist

Female visitors can drive in Saudi Arabia with a valid international or foreign driver’s license. It is recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their home country’s license.

Tips for Women Driving in Saudi Arabia

• Know Driving Laws: Get to know traffic laws.
• Dress Properly: There is no dress code for driving, but follow local traditions.
• Have the Right Documents: Keep your driver's license, IDP (if required), and papers of car ownership with you.
• Be Ready for Checks: Security scans are routine, so always carry your identification.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia's decision to allow women to drive is a giant step towards gender equality and social transformation. As residents or tourists, women can now journey through the Kingdom independently. To start your adventure, be sure to get a Saudi eVisa and enjoy the freedom to drive and discover this great country!