Driving in Saudi Arabia is a privilege that comes with a set of responsibilities. Understanding the intricacies of traffic regulations is crucial for every driver to ensure road safety and avoid penalties. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the Saudi Traffic Fines List, detailing violations and penalties enforced in 2024.
Overview of Saudi Traffic Regulations
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia upholds stringent traffic laws to maintain order and safety on its roads. These regulations encompass various aspects of driving behavior, vehicle maintenance, and adherence to road signs and signals. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines, penalties, and in severe cases, even imprisonment.
Types of Driving Licenses in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia issues different types of driving licenses, each with its own set of privileges and restrictions. It’s imperative for drivers to understand the rules associated with their specific license type to avoid infractions and subsequent penalties.
Understanding Traffic Violations
Traffic violations in Saudi Arabia are categorized into seven tables, each outlining specific offenses and corresponding fines. These violations range from minor infractions such as driving without a backplate to more serious offenses like driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Violations Table (1)
This table encompasses offenses such as driving in the opposite direction, exceeding speed limits, and overtaking vehicles in hazardous conditions. Fines for violations in this category range from S.R.500 to S.R.900.
- Driving a Vehicle Without a Backplate: It is mandatory for vehicles to display a backplate. Failure to do so can result in fines ranging from S.R.500 to S.R.900, and the vehicle will be kept in custody until the violation is settled.
- Driving in the Opposite Direction: This reckless behavior endangers lives and violates traffic laws. Violators face fines within the range mentioned above.
- Exceeding the Speed Limit: Driving at speeds exceeding the limit by more than 25 km/h attracts fines and potential penalties.
- Reckless Driving: Moving fast and recklessly between vehicles on public roads is a serious offense, punishable by fines and legal action.
- Overtaking in Unsafe Conditions: Overtaking vehicles in curves and uphill sections poses risks and violates traffic regulations.
- Uncovering Transported Loads: Failing to secure transported loads properly can lead to fines and endanger other road users.
- Disregarding Stop Signals: Non-stopping completely at stop signals or failing to yield can result in fines and legal consequences.
- Ignoring Priority Rules: Not giving priority to vehicles on the right side or on main roads at intersections can lead to fines.
- Violating Traffic Police Signals: Disobeying traffic police hand signals or not adhering to their instructions can result in fines.
- Roundabout Violations: Not giving priority to vehicles in roundabouts or disregarding traffic signals incurs penalties.
- Driving Without Necessary Equipment: Operating a vehicle without brakes or essential equipment endangers lives and attracts severe penalties.
- Lack of Proper Lighting: Failing to use necessary lights at night or in adverse weather conditions violates safety regulations.
- Driving Without a License: Operating a vehicle without a valid driving license is against the law and punishable by fines.
Violations Table (2)
Offenses listed in this table include driving vehicles that pollute the environment, exceeding speed limits by a moderate margin, and not complying with traffic regulations at intersections. Fines range from S.R.300 to S.R.500.
- Unauthorized Vehicle Modifications: Making unauthorized amendments to a vehicle’s body without following proper procedures leads to fines.
- Environmental Pollution: Driving a vehicle that pollutes the environment on public roads violates environmental regulations and incurs penalties.
- Minor Speeding Offenses: Exceeding the speed limit by a smaller margin still attracts fines and penalties.
- Non-compliance at Intersections: Failing to comply with traffic regulations at road intersections can lead to fines.
- Unlicensed Vehicle Use: Using a vehicle for unlicensed purposes is illegal and subject to penalties.
- Improper Passenger Seating: Seating passengers in unauthorized areas of the vehicle violates safety regulations and results in fines.
- Disregarding Lane Markings: Non-compliance with road-limits marked on lanes can lead to fines.
- Endangering Public Safety: Leaving objects on public roads that endanger public safety is a punishable offense.
- VIP or Emergency Vehicle Priority: Failing to give movement priority to VIP or emergency vehicles can lead to fines.
- Expired License Usage: Using an expired license for driving incurs penalties and legal consequences.
Violations Table (3)
Violations in this category include not equipping trailers as required, driving without necessary documents, and not wearing seat belts. Fines range from S.R.150 to S.R.300.
Violation 1: Not equipping trailers as required by regulations can pose significant risks on the road. Proper equipment ensures the safety of both the driver and other road users. Violators face fines ranging from S.R.150 to S.R.300.
Violation 2: Neglecting to present the vehicle for periodic technical inspection is a serious offense. Regular inspections help identify and rectify potential mechanical issues, enhancing road safety. Fines for this violation range from S.R.150 to S.R.300.
Road Safety Measures
Violation 3: Infringing rules by using strong lights can dazzle other drivers and compromise road safety. Adhering to lighting regulations is essential for maintaining clear visibility and preventing accidents. Offenders may incur fines between S.R.150 and S.R.300.
Violation 4: Not following precautions required when parking on public roads in emergencies can obstruct traffic flow and lead to hazardous situations. Proper parking procedures during emergencies are crucial for ensuring smooth traffic movement. Fines for non-compliance range from S.R.150 to S.R.300.
Driver Visibility and Documentation
Violation 5: Installing bars inside the vehicle that obstruct the driver’s vision is a dangerous practice that increases the risk of accidents. Maintaining clear visibility is essential for safe driving. Violators may face fines between S.R.150 and S.R.300.
Violation 6: Driving without carrying the driving license or vehicle registration license is a violation of essential documentation requirements. Possessing valid licenses is mandatory for legal driving. Offenders risk fines ranging from S.R.150 to S.R.300.
Road Etiquette and Safety Gear
Violation 7: Leaving the vehicle on a sloping road without taking necessary precautions can result in unintended movement and accidents. Proper precautions are necessary to prevent potential hazards. Fines for negligence range from S.R.150 to S.R.300.
Violation 8: Violating rules for driving on roads, such as speeding or reckless driving, jeopardizes the safety of all road users. Respecting traffic regulations is vital for preventing accidents and maintaining order on the roads. Fines vary from S.R.150 to S.R.300.
Passenger Safety
Violation 9: Not wearing seat belts is a common violation that increases the risk of injuries during accidents. Seat belts are crucial safety devices that should be worn by all occupants of a vehicle. Fines for non-compliance range from S.R.150 to S.R.300.
Violation 10: Neglecting to use safety seats meant for children endangers the lives of young passengers. Properly securing children in safety seats is essential for their protection while traveling. Violators may face fines between S.R.150 and S.R.300.
Violations Table (4)
This table covers offenses such as throwing objects outside the vehicle, driving without front plate numbers, and parking in unauthorized areas. Fines range from S.R.100 to S.R.150.
Violation 1: Leaving vehicles on public roads in unauthorized areas unnecessarily can obstruct traffic flow and create inconvenience for other road users. Adhering to designated parking areas is essential for maintaining order. Fines for this violation range from S.R.100 to S.R.150.
Violation 2: Throwing any objects outside the vehicle while it is moving poses risks to pedestrians and other motorists. Proper disposal of waste is necessary to prevent accidents and maintain cleanliness on the roads. Offenders may incur fines between S.R.100 and S.R.150.
Vehicle Identification and Safety
Violation 3: Driving a vehicle without front plate numbers is a violation of identification requirements. Properly displayed license plates are essential for vehicle identification and law enforcement purposes. Fines for this offense range from S.R.100 to S.R.150.
Violation 4: Getting off or riding into a vehicle while it is moving is a hazardous activity that can lead to accidents and injuries. Boarding or disembarking from a moving vehicle should be avoided at all costs. Violators risk fines between S.R.100 and S.R.150.
Pedestrian Safety
Violation 5: Pedestrians crossing roads from places other than those allocated for them endanger their safety and disrupt traffic flow. Using designated crosswalks and pedestrian crossings is essential for pedestrian safety. Fines for non-compliance range from S.R.100 to S.R.150.
Violation 6: Pedestrians must comply with signals defined for them to ensure safe road crossing. Ignoring pedestrian signals can lead to accidents and pose risks to both pedestrians and motorists. Violators may face fines between S.R.100 and S.R.150.
Traffic Flow and Parking Regulations
Violation 7: Slowing down driving in a manner that impedes the smooth flow of traffic disrupts the overall traffic flow and can lead to congestion and frustration among drivers. Maintaining a consistent speed is essential for smooth traffic movement. Fines for this violation range from S.R.100 to S.R.150.
Violation 8: Parking in places not specified for parking can obstruct traffic flow and create inconvenience for other road users. Adhering to designated parking areas is necessary for maintaining order on the roads. Offenders may incur fines between S.R.100 and S.R.150.
Driver Responsibilities
Violation 9: Drivers must focus on the road while driving to ensure attentiveness and quick response to potential hazards. Distracted driving, such as using mobile phones, increases the risk of accidents. Violators risk fines between S.R.100 and S.R.150.
Violation 10: Absence of an insurance policy is a serious violation that exposes drivers to financial risks in the event of accidents. Having valid insurance coverage is mandatory for all vehicles operating on the roads. Fines for non-compliance range from S.R.100 to S.R.150.
Violations Table (5)
Offenses listed in this table include stopping on railways, carrying excess passengers, and not wearing helmets while riding motorbikes. Fines range from S.R.1000 to S.R.2000.
1. Stopping on Railways
Stopping on railways poses a severe risk to both the driver and passengers, as well as to other commuters. As such, it is considered a serious offense under the traffic regulations of Saudi Arabia.
2. Carrying Excessive Passengers
The number of passengers a vehicle can carry is strictly regulated for safety reasons. Exceeding the stipulated number, as indicated in the vehicle’s license, can lead to fines ranging from S.R.1000 to S.R.2000.
3. Failure to Present Required Documents
Drivers are obligated to present their driver’s license and vehicle registration papers when requested by authorized personnel. Failure to do so can result in penalties under the law.
4. Neglecting Vehicle Plate Maintenance
Maintaining the integrity of vehicle plates is essential for identification and legal compliance. Failure to preserve the vehicle’s plates number can lead to fines as outlined in the regulations.
5. Incomplete Vehicle Ownership Transfer
Completing the transfer of vehicle ownership is a legal requirement in Saudi Arabia. Failure to do so within the
specified timeframe can result in penalties
Violations Table (6)
This category encompasses serious offenses such as driving without plates, using illegal plates, and overtaking school buses illegally. Fines range from S.R.3000 to S.R.6000.
1. Driving Without Plates
Operating a vehicle without proper identification plates is a serious violation of traffic laws. Offenders may face fines and have their vehicles impounded until the violation is rectified.
2. Use of Forged Registration Plates
Using counterfeit registration plates is illegal and punishable by law. Offenders risk substantial fines and the confiscation of their vehicles until the issue is resolved.
3. Unauthorized Vehicle Plates
Only authorized and legally issued plates are permissible for use on vehicles. Violating this regulation can lead to significant fines and vehicle impoundment.
4. Improper Equipment Installation
Installing equipment on vehicles that mimic those used in official or emergency vehicles is strictly prohibited. Offenders face penalties and vehicle confiscation until compliance is achieved.
5. Disregarding Traffic Signals
Ignoring red traffic lights poses a danger to all road users and is considered a serious offense. Violators may face fines and other legal consequences.
6. Overtaking School Buses Illegally
Overtaking school buses while they are loading or unloading students is prohibited to ensure the safety of children. Violators are subject to fines and penalties under the law.
7. Unsafe Operation of Public Works Vehicles
Operating industrial, constructional, or agricultural vehicles on roads without proper precautions is hazardous and illegal. Offenders risk fines and vehicle impoundment until compliance is achieved.
8. Tampering with Traffic Signs
Traffic signs play a crucial role in ensuring road safety and order. Tampering with or vandalizing traffic signs is a punishable offense.
9. Failure to Stop at Checkpoints
Checkpoints are established for security purposes, and all drivers are required to stop when signaled to do so. Failure to comply can result in fines and legal consequences.
10. Unauthorized Devices and Content
Using unauthorized devices or displaying content contrary to public morals within vehicles is prohibited. Violators may face fines and other penalties under the law.
Violations Table (7)
The most severe offenses fall under this table, including driving under the influence, concealing vehicle features, and carrying out unauthorized road works. Fines range from S.R.5000 to S.R.10000.
1 – Concealing or trying to conceal or blur the special features of the vehicle (vehicle will be kept in custody until the violation is settled)
2 -Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medicine which was warned not to drive if taken
3- Carrying out road-works before notifying the relevant authorities
Penalties for Severe Violations
Certain violations warrant more severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or both. Offenses such as leaving the scene of an accident without assistance, vehicle modification without authorization, and over-drifting carry hefty fines and potential jail time.
Maximizing Road Safety: Understanding Traffic Violations and Penalties
When it comes to road safety, compliance with traffic laws is paramount. Understanding the consequences of violating these laws is crucial for all motorists. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, strict penalties are imposed for various traffic violations to ensure the safety of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the details of common traffic violations and the prescribed penalties for offenders.
Failure to Stop at the Accident Scene
One of the most serious traffic violations is the failure to stop at the scene of an accident, report it, and provide assistance to the victims. This act of negligence can have severe consequences, both legally and morally. According to Saudi Arabian traffic laws, drivers who fail to fulfill these responsibilities may face a fine of up to S.R.10,000, imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months, or both penalties.
Vehicle Modification Without Authorization
Modifying a vehicle without proper authorization is another offense that is taken seriously by traffic authorities. This includes alterations to the vehicle’s exterior, dimensions, weight, engine force, or changes in its color or shape. Additionally, removing chassis registration numbers without prior approval is strictly prohibited. For a first-time offense, fines can range from S.R.10,000 to S.R.50,000. Subsequent offenses incur doubling of fines, with potential closure of the workshop for repeated violations.
Unauthorized Holding of Licenses or Registration Documents
Individuals who unlawfully hold, mortgage, or take custody of driving licenses or vehicle registration documents are subject to fines ranging from S.R.1,000 to S.R.2,000. This violation undermines the integrity of the licensing system and can lead to legal repercussions for the offender.
Premature Transfer of Vehicle Ownership
Allowing a vehicle to leave the showroom before ownership transfer or completion of showroom contracts is a violation of regulations. This includes adding the vehicle to another person’s ownership prematurely. Penalties for this offense start at S.R.1,500 for first-time offenders and escalate with subsequent violations, potentially leading to license cancellation for repeat offenders.
Manipulation of Sales Records
Any modifications, changes, or falsifications of sales records without proper approval are strictly prohibited. This includes selling or renting showrooms without authorization from the relevant department. Penalties for such offenses range from S.R.10,000 to S.R.50,000 for first-time offenders, with escalating fines and potential closure of the business for repeat violations.
Failure to Report Vehicle Sale or Damage
Failure to inform the Traffic Department about the sale or damage of a vehicle outside the Kingdom can result in fines not exceeding S.R.10,000. It is essential for vehicle owners to adhere to reporting requirements to maintain transparency and accountability in the transportation sector.
Over-Drifting Violation
Over-drifting, a reckless driving behavior, is penalized severely to deter motorists from endangering lives on the road. For first-time offenders, the vehicle may be impounded for 15 days, with a fine of S.R.20,000 and possible court referral for imprisonment. Subsequent violations incur harsher penalties, including increased fines and potential vehicle confiscation.
Checking Saudi Traffic Fines
To check traffic fines in Saudi Arabia, drivers can utilize the Ministry of Interior System’s online platform. By logging in to www.absher.sa and accessing the violations section, drivers can input relevant details such as the fine number and violator ID to view their outstanding fines.
Conclusion
Adhering to traffic regulations is paramount for all drivers in Saudi Arabia. By familiarizing themselves with the Saudi Traffic Fines List and understanding the consequences of violations, drivers can contribute to safer roads and avoid unnecessary penalties.