Vehicle periodic inspection, commonly known as Fahas, is a mandatory requirement for all vehicles in Saudi Arabia. It ensures that vehicles on the road meet safety and environmental standards. This guide explains when inspection is required, the documents needed, fees, booking process, and how to check Fahas validity in 2025.
When is vehicle inspection required?
- Private vehicles: First inspection is done three years after obtaining the initial vehicle license, then once every year.
- Taxis, buses, and public transport: Inspection starts two years after the first license, followed by yearly checks.
- Optional inspection: Car owners may request inspection at any authorized center anytime for peace of mind.
Required documents for vehicle inspection
When visiting an inspection center, bring the following:
- Appointment confirmation (proof of booking).
- Identity card – can be the vehicle owner’s, a first-degree relative’s, or an authorized driver’s.
- Vehicle registration (Istimara) – original traffic printout, Customs card (for imported cars), or valid registration document.
Other situations requiring inspection
You must inspect your vehicle in these cases:
- Before expiry of the current inspection certificate.
- Ownership transfer, if there is no valid inspection record.
- Foreign vehicles: Within 15 days of entering Saudi Arabia, if no recognized inspection certificate is available.
Steps to complete Fahas inspection
- Book an appointment: Schedule through the PTI platform or the Vehicles Safety app.
- Visit the inspection center: Arrive at the booked time and have your car inspected.
- Receive results: Results are sent via SMS.
- If passed, a sticker is placed on the windshield.
- If failed, you can re-inspect up to two times within 14 working days.
How to book a Fahas appointment
You must book an appointment before conducting any periodic technical inspection or re-inspection. Here’s how:
- Go to the PTI platform.
- Select “Book Appointment”.
- Choose “Individual Login”.
- Log in using your Iqama number and OTP.
- Enter your vehicle details.
- Confirm and book an appointment.
Fahas inspection fees for private cars
- First inspection: 115 SAR (including VAT).
- Re-inspection: 37.95 SAR (including VAT).
Re-examination guidelines
If your vehicle fails inspection:
- You get two chances for re-examination within 14 working days.
- Re-inspection can be done at any authorized center.
- Once passed, your inspection remains valid for one year.
How to check Fahas validity
You can check the inspection validity online:
- Visit the PTI portal.
- Select Inspection Status Verification.
- Enter your vehicle’s Chassis Number and Sequence Number (found on Istimara).
- Click Inquire to view inspection results and validity dates.
Alternatively, you can also check your vehicle’s Fahas validity on the Fahas sticker placed on your vehicle’s windshield or from your last inspection report.
How to Find Your Nearest Fahas Center
To know your nearest Fahas center, follow these steps:
- Visit the PTI portal.
- Select “Inspection zones”.
- Click on “Nearest Service site” next to the Technical Inspection sites option. You will see your nearest Fahas center.
- Alternatively, you can find all available centers in your area by going to the same webpage and manually selecting your area (like Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam).
Conclusion
Fahas is a crucial part of vehicle ownership in Saudi Arabia, ensuring that cars remain safe and roadworthy. By booking inspections on time, preparing the required documents, and checking validity online, you can stay compliant with Saudi traffic regulations and avoid penalties.