Saudi Arabia sets six operational conditions for truck drivers

Traffic directorate mandates six operational requirements#

The General Directorate of Traffic in Saudi Arabia mandated six operational conditions for truck and heavy equipment drivers on roads, according to an announcement published September 12, 2026. The requirements include using the rightmost lane on multi-lane roads, adhering to permitted times for entering or exiting cities, and securing transported loads with covers and fastenings to prevent items from falling. Drivers are prohibited from transporting passengers in trucks not designed for that purpose. Trucks stopped at night must display a triangular warning sign or reflector at a sufficient distance behind the vehicle. Drivers must comply with permitted dimensions and weight limits for loads.

Compliance deadlines extended to February 2027#

The Transport General Authority extended regulatory compliance deadlines for road transport companies operating freight and private passenger bus services to February 27, 2027, under two decisions issued by Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh Al-Jasser on September 11, 2026. The first decision extends the deadline for private passenger bus operators to add newly introduced activity classifications to their commercial registrations, a requirement for obtaining operating licenses. The second decision extends deadlines for commercial and non-commercial heavy freight operators to change vehicle registration classifications from private transport to public transport and obtain vehicle operating cards.

Light freight operators receive additional time#

Commercial and non-commercial light freight operators were granted additional time to obtain professional driver cards and align operations with regulations governing the activity. The Transport General Authority stated the extensions would give affected businesses additional time to complete regulatory procedures and improve compliance. The authority said the measures would ensure continuity of operations within the approved legal framework established under the Land Transport Law and its implementing regulations.

Directorate emphasises shared responsibility for road safety#

The General Directorate of Traffic stated that truck driver compliance with traffic regulations and instructions is a fundamental element in enhancing road safety and protecting all road users. The directorate described implementing the announced regulations as a shared responsibility between drivers and regulatory authorities. Compliance with the requirements represents the first line of defense in reducing risks associated with truck traffic, the directorate said, and contributes to raising the level of traffic discipline and achieving the highest standards of public safety on roads.