Drive in Pakistan with Saudi License: Requirements & Tips

If you are planning to drive in Pakistan with Saudi license, you need to know the rules and regulations of driving in Pakistan. Although having a Saudi license will allow you to drive in Pakistan, there are certain requirements and restrictions that you need to be aware of. 

Today we will discuss everything you need to know about driving in Pakistan with a Saudi license.

Is Saudi Driving License Valid in Pakistan

In general, a Saudi driving license may not be valid for use in Pakistan. Pakistan requires foreign nationals to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a Pakistani driving license to drive legally.

An IDP is a legal document that translates your Saudi driving license into several languages, including English and is recognized in over 150 countries, including Pakistan.

Therefore, if you plan to drive in Pakistan, you must obtain an IDP before leaving Saudi Arabia. You can obtain an IDP from the Saudi Automobile and Touring Association (SATA) or the Saudi Traffic Department.

An IDP is valid for one year, and you must have a valid Saudi driving license to obtain an IDP.

It is essential to note that an IDP is not a substitute for a Saudi driving license but rather a complement to it. You must carry your original Saudi driving license and IDP while driving in Pakistan.

In addition to an IDP, you may also need car insurance valid in Pakistan. Some insurance policies in Saudi Arabia may not cover accidents outside the country, so it is crucial to check with your insurance provider if your policy covers driving in Pakistan.

Converting a Saudi Driving License to a Pakistani License

If you plan to stay in Pakistan for an extended period, you may need to convert your Saudi driving license to a Pakistani one. Converting a Saudi driving license to a Pakistani license can be time-consuming and requires several documents.

Here is an overview of the process of converting a Saudi driving license to a Pakistani license:

1. Obtain a NOC: The first step in converting your Saudi driving license to a Pakistani license is to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Saudi embassy in Islamabad or the consulate in Karachi or Lahore. The NOC certifies that your Saudi driving license is valid and that you have not been involved in any traffic violations or accidents.
2. Translate documents: The next step is to get your Saudi driving license, and NOC translated into Urdu by a certified translator. You may also need to get your passport and visa translated into Urdu.
3. Get a medical certificate: You must obtain a medical certificate from a designated medical center or hospital. The medical certificate confirms that you are physically fit to drive and have no medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive safely.
4. Visit the licensing authority: Once you have all the necessary documents, you need to visit the licensing authority in the province where you plan to live. You must fill out an application form, submit the required documents, and pay the applicable fees.
5. Take the driving test: The licensing authority may require a driving test to assess your driving skills and knowledge of Pakistani traffic laws. The test may include a written exam and a practical driving test.
6. Receive your Pakistani license: If you pass the driving test, you will receive your Pakistani license. Your Saudi driving license will be returned to you after being cancelled.

The duration and fees for converting a Saudi driving license to a Pakistani license may vary depending on the province and the licensing authority. It is advisable to contact the relevant authority in advance to get accurate information about the requirements and fees.

Tips for Driving in Pakistan with a Saudi Driving License

Pakistan has its own set of driving laws that may differ from those in Saudi Arabia, and ignorance of the laws can result in fines or legal problems.

Here are some tips to help you drive safely and confidently in Pakistan with your Saudi driving license:

1. Obtain an IDP: As mentioned earlier, an IDP is necessary to drive legally in Pakistan. You must have an IDP before leaving Saudi Arabia and carry it with your Saudi driving license while driving in Pakistan.
2. Carry necessary documents: Besides your Saudi driving license and IDP, you should carry other necessary documents, such as your passport, visa, car registration, and insurance. Make sure your insurance policy is valid in Pakistan.
3. Know the traffic laws: Familiarize yourself with Pakistani traffic laws and regulations, such as speed limits, seatbelt laws, and traffic signals. In Pakistan, traffic drives on the left side of the road, and you should follow the local traffic rules.
4. Be cautious while driving: Be mindful of Pakistan’s driving habits and road conditions. The roads can be congested and chaotic, and drivers often need to follow traffic laws. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid sudden lane changes or turns.
5. Avoid driving at night: It is advisable to avoid driving at night, especially on rural roads, as the roads can be poorly lit, and there may be unmarked speed bumps or potholes.
6. Consider hiring a driver: If you are not familiar with the roads and traffic in Pakistan, it may be wise to hire a driver who knows the local roads and can navigate through the traffic.

In conclusion, a Saudi driving license is generally not valid for use in Pakistan, and foreign nationals must have an IDP or a Pakistani driving license to drive legally in the country.

Obtaining an IDP before leaving Saudi Arabia and carrying the necessary documents while driving in Pakistan is essential to avoid any legal issues.