KSA Driving Theory study materials
KSA Driving Theory study resources

KSA Driving Theory cheat sheet

KSA Driving Theory · Keep the key ideas within reach.

Quick reference

Traffic signs, signals and road markings

  • Red octagon means STOP: make a full stop before the stop line or crosswalk and proceed only when clear.

  • Inverted red-and-white triangle means YIELD or GIVE WAY: slow down and give priority to traffic on the priority road.

  • Circular signs with red borders prohibit an action; blue circular signs state a mandatory action.

  • A yellow diamond with a black symbol warns of a hazard ahead; adjust speed and scan for the stated hazard.

  • Solid white lane line: do not cross or change lanes; broken white line: lane change is permitted when safe.

  • Double solid lines separate opposing traffic and must not be crossed for overtaking.

  • At a marked pedestrian crossing, pedestrians have priority over vehicles.

  • Flashing yellow traffic signal means proceed with caution after checking that the intersection is clear.

  • A red traffic light requires a full stop at the stop line; turning is allowed only where a sign or signal permits.

Quick reference

Traffic rules, right-of-way and intersections

  • Saudi Arabia drives on the right side of the road; traffic keeps right and overtakes on the left.

  • At an unmarked intersection of equal roads, yield to traffic approaching from your right.

  • At a roundabout, entering vehicles yield to vehicles already circulating in the roundabout.

  • A left-turning vehicle yields to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right.

  • Pedestrians in a marked crossing have right-of-way; vehicles must stop before the crossing.

  • Emergency vehicles using sirens or flashing lights have priority; move aside and do not follow closely.

  • Minimum safe following gap in dry conditions is at least 3 seconds; increase it in rain, darkness, or heavy traffic.

  • Do not overtake at intersections, curves, hill crests, pedestrian crossings, or where a solid line prohibits it.

Quick reference

Safe driving, hazard perception and defensive driving

  • Scan 12-15 seconds ahead and keep the vehicle positioned so an escape path exists.

  • Use the 3-second rule for following distance; double it in rain, fog, or low visibility.

  • Before lane changes, check mirrors, signal, and check the blind spot over the shoulder.

  • Drowsiness is a hazard: stop in a safe place and rest; continuing to drive increases crash risk.

  • In rain, reduce speed, increase following distance, and brake earlier and more gently to avoid skids.

  • In a sandstorm, use low-beam headlights, reduce speed, and stop off the road if visibility becomes unsafe.

  • At night on rural roads, watch for camels, animals, and unlit vehicles; high beams are for empty road ahead.

  • In fog, use low-beam headlights, not high beams, because high beams reflect back and reduce visibility.

Quick reference

Vehicle control and basic mechanical knowledge

  • ABS prevents wheel lock during hard braking; press the brake firmly and steer without pumping.

  • Check tire pressure when tires are cold; correct pressure is shown on the vehicle placard or owner manual.

  • Hydroplaning: ease off the accelerator, keep steering steady, and avoid sudden braking until grip returns.

  • In a skid, ease off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction you want the front of the car to go.

  • If the engine overheats, stop safely, switch off the engine, and do not open the radiator cap while hot.

  • A red oil-pressure warning light means low oil pressure; stop the engine safely and check the oil level.

  • On a long downhill grade, use a lower gear to control speed instead of riding the brakes continuously.

  • Tire tread below 1.6 mm is unsafe for wet grip; replace tires before reaching the wear indicator.

Quick reference

Traffic law, violations, penalties and licensing requirements

  • The minimum age for a private car driving license in Saudi Arabia is 18 years.

  • Driving in Saudi Arabia requires a valid license for the vehicle class and a valid vehicle registration.

  • Saudi traffic law applies zero tolerance to alcohol and drugs while driving.

  • Handheld mobile phone use while driving is prohibited; use only hands-free equipment where permitted.

  • Seat belts are mandatory for the driver and all passengers.

  • Saudi Arabia uses a black-point system; reaching the legal threshold can lead to license suspension.

  • Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for registered vehicles.

  • Traffic violations may lead to fines, black points, vehicle impounding, or license suspension depending on the offense.

Quick reference

Emergencies, incidents and basic first aid

  • Saudi emergency numbers: 997 ambulance, 999 police, 998 fire, 993 traffic police.

  • At a crash scene, first secure the scene with hazard lights and warning triangle, then call emergency services.

  • Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire or traffic.

  • Control severe bleeding by applying firm direct pressure with a clean cloth and adding layers if blood soaks through.

  • For an adult not breathing, start CPR with chest compressions at 100-120 per minute and depth 5-6 cm.

  • If a person is unresponsive but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position and monitor breathing.

  • For a burn, cool the area with running water for about 20 minutes and do not apply ice, butter, or oils.

  • After a minor crash, move vehicles off the travel lane if safe and exchange required details.