Adding an Extra Driver to a Rental Car in Saudi Arabia: Who Can Drive and How

On a long drive to Dammam, Taif or Madinah, sharing the wheel makes the trip safer and less tiring. In Saudi Arabia only the drivers named on the rental contract may drive the car, so the second driver must be added properly before they take the wheel.

Why it matters

• Insurance: the car's insurance follows the drivers recorded in the contract. If someone who is not on the contract drives and has an accident, the damage may not be covered and the renter can be held responsible.
• The law: every rental is registered on the unified electronic contract (Tajeer). An authorised driver is added to that contract, not just told verbally.
• Fines: violations are linked to the contract, so it is clear who was responsible.

Who can be added

The extra driver needs the same things as the main renter:

1. A valid national ID, iqama, or passport with a visa.
2. A driving licence valid for the whole rental period and accepted in the Kingdom.
3. A mobile number registered in Absher, because the Tajeer contract sends a verification code that the driver must enter to sign electronically.

Age and licence-years rules can depend on the car category, so ask when you book.

How to add a driver with Sajil

1. Book the car online as usual on the booking form.
2. Tell the branch at pickup that you want to add a driver, or call 920019913 beforehand.
3. The extra driver comes to the branch with their original documents and their phone.
4. The branch adds them to the electronic contract and they confirm with the code.

If you decide to add a driver halfway through the rental, contact the branch first. Do not let anyone drive until they have been added.

Tips for sharing the drive

• Swap every two hours on long highways, at a fuel station or rest area.
• Agree who drives at night; the most rested person should take dark stretches.
• Both drivers should read our highway driving guide.

Good cars for shared road trips

A comfortable sedan such as the Hyundai Elantra or Ford Taurus, or a 7-seater such as the Kia Carnival for families. Planning a group trip? See road trip with friends.

Frequently asked questions

Can my friend drive my rental car if I am in the car?

Only if they are added to the rental contract as an authorised driver. Being in the car is not enough.

Does the extra driver need to be at the branch?

Yes. They need to show original documents and confirm the electronic contract with a code sent to their phone.

Is there a fee for an extra driver?

This depends on the branch and the contract. Ask when you book or at pickup.