Translation of Foreign Driver’s License in Saudi Arabia Importance, Procedures and Standards
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A driver’s license is an internationally recognized official document that certifies a person’s eligibility to drive vehicles. When moving to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for residence or work, it becomes essential for holders of foreign driving licenses to have their licenses translated into Arabic as a primary step for validation with official authorities. Certified translation of a license is not a mere formal procedure but a legal requirement to ensure data accuracy and facilitate official transactions, especially when replacing the license or obtaining a Saudi license based on a foreign one.
Importance of Translating a Foreign Driver’s License in Saudi Arabia
Compliance with Saudi Regulations: The General Directorate of Traffic in Saudi Arabia requires an official and accurate translation of foreign licenses when applying for license replacement or issuing a new one.
Ensuring Data Accuracy: Certified translation helps ensure that all data, such as name, license number, issuing authority, and expiry date, are clearly and correctly presented.
Legal Recognition of the License: Foreign driver’s licenses are not recognized by Saudi authorities unless officially translated by a certified translation office.
Facilitating Traffic and Insurance Procedures: A translated license is often required when dealing with insurance companies, in case of accidents, or when stopped by security authorities.
Steps for Translating a Foreign Driver’s License in Saudi Arabia
Selecting a Certified Translation Office: Ensure that you choose a translation office that is certified by the Ministry of Commerce and recognized by official Saudi authorities to guarantee acceptance of the translation by the traffic department.
Providing a Clear Copy of the License: A clear colored copy of the foreign license with all readable information must be submitted.
Verifying Personal Data Accuracy: The data on the license must match exactly with the information in the passport or residence permit (Iqama).
Receiving the Certified Translation: After translation, the client will receive a stamped and signed hard copy from the translation office, sometimes accompanied by a translation certification.
Submitting via Absher or Traffic Department Visit: After obtaining the translation, one can apply for license replacement online via the Absher platform or by booking an appointment at a traffic department branch.
Standards Required for Certified License Translation
Accuracy and Professionalism: The translation must be literal and clear, without assumptions or incorrect interpretations of data.
Adherence to Official Saudi License Terminology: The translation should align with terms used in Saudi driver’s licenses, such as license number, license category, issue and expiry dates, and issuing authority.
Translation Documentation: Some authorities may require the translation to be authenticated by the Chamber of Commerce or a relevant official body.
Common Issues and Importance of Choosing a Trusted Translation Office
Many expatriates face rejection of their applications due to translation errors, such as:
- Incorrect spelling of the name.
- Wrong translation of the license type (Private/Commercial).
- Inaccurate translation of issue and expiry dates.
Thus, choosing a certified and experienced translation office like RONQ AL-EBDAA Certified Translation Office ensures a precise and officially recognized translation that meets the requirements of traffic authorities.
Conclusion
Translating a foreign driver’s license in Saudi Arabia is not a mere formality but a critical step to ensure data accuracy and smooth processing of license replacement according to Saudi regulations. It is always recommended to approach certified and experienced translation offices to guarantee a precise, documented, and officially accepted translation by the traffic department and other concerned entities.
