A category B driving license in UAE refers to the one you need for driving your own car. So when you reach legal age and want to apply for getting a driver’s license, you will naturally have to apply for a category B driving license.
If you are about to start this process and don’t know where to begin or want to familiarize yourself with the steps involved in this process, this article is for you. Here you will find all there is to know about UAE driving license category B, including required documents and how to apply.
Too Long; Didn’t Read (TL;DR)
- UAE driving license category B is the standard license for driving private light vehicles in the UAE.
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid UAE residence visa.
- Meeting UAE driving license category B requirements includes an eye test, driving training, and passing theory and road tests.
- Category B is different from UAE driving license category 2, which is mainly for motorcycles.
- There is no direct upgrade from UAE driving license category 2 to Category B; a separate application is required.
- Following the correct process from the start helps avoid delays, extra costs, and repeat tests.
UAE Driving License Category B
Whether you are living in Dubai, Sharjah or Abu Dhabi driving license category B is the one you should apply for if you want to start driving in the UAE. But it is important to know that this type of license doesn’t cover all vehicles.
What Vehicles Does Category B Cover?
So, what exactly can you drive with a UAE driving license category B? Think of this as your “everyday” license. It covers the typical cars you see on the road every day, from compact sedans to the large SUVs that are so popular here. As long as you aren’t planning to drive a bus or a heavy truck, this is the only category you really need to worry about.
Quick Look: What Category B Covers:
| Feature | What You Need to Know |
| Car Types | Your standard light vehicles like sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs. |
| Seating | You can carry up to 8 passengers plus yourself. |
| Weight | The car should be under 2.5 tons (which covers almost all personal cars). |
| Gearbox | You can choose Manual or Automatic training. |
| Pro-Tip | If you get an Automatic license, you cannot legally drive a Manual car. |
UAE Driving License Category B Requirements
Before you head to the driving school, you need to check off a few UAE driving license category B requirements. Don’t worry, they are pretty straightforward, but you’ll want to have everything ready to avoid any back-and-forth at the registration desk.
- How old are you? You need to be at least 18 to get the actual license. The good news is you can start your lessons and open your file as early as 17 and a half.
- Having a valid UAE residence visa or being a UAE citizen is a must before you can register at any driving school.
- You will have to pass a quick eye test at an authorized center to make sure your vision meets the safety standards for the road.
- It is important to have a clean medical and legal standing to ensure there are no restrictions that would stop you from operating a vehicle safely.
Other UAE Driving License Categories
While Category B is the standard for personal transport, the UAE uses a numbered system for various commercial and heavy-duty vehicles. Understanding where you fit in the hierarchy prevents legal complications during the application process.
UAE Driving License Category 2
While Category B focuses on light personal vehicles, the UAE driving license category 2 (often referred to as the “Motorcycle” category in many jurisdictions, though specifically categorized by number in UAE traffic files) serves a different purpose.
| Feature | Category B | Category 2 |
| Vehicle Type | Light Vehicles (Cars/SUVs) | Motorcycles / Scooters |
| Minimum Age | 18 Years | 17 Years |
| Typical Use | Personal commuting & family transport | Individual transport & delivery services |
Who should apply for each?
It really comes down to your lifestyle. If you are looking to join the fast-paced delivery industry or just want to skip the traffic on a bike, then a UAE driving license category 2 is what you need. But for most of us, whether you’re commuting to work or driving the kids to school, the UAE driving license category B is the standard, go-to choice for a reason.
How to Apply for a UAE Driving License Category B
The process of obtaining your license is standardized across the emirates (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.) though the specific driving schools may differ.
Step 1: Document Preparation
Before visiting a driving school, gather the following UAE driving license category B requirements:
- Original Emirates ID: And a copy for the file.
- Passport Copy: Including the residence visa page.
- Photographs: Usually 2-4 passport-sized photos with a white background.
- Eye Test Certificate: Obtainable at the driving school or authorized centers.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): Required only for specific professions (though many categories no longer require this, it is best to check with your employer).
Step 2: Opening a Traffic File
Select an RTA-approved driving school (such as Emirates Driving Institute, Galadari, or Belhasa) and register. They will open a traffic file in your name on the government portal.
Step 3: Theory Lessons and Test
You must attend a series of mandatory theory classes. These cover:
- Road signs and markings.
- Driving in hazardous conditions.
- Traffic laws and fines.
- Hazard perception.
Once completed, you must pass the RTA Theory Test before moving to the vehicle.
Step 4: Practical Training (Yard and Road)
Training is split into two phases:
- Yard Training: Learning maneuvers such as emergency braking, parallel parking, and hill starts.
- Road Training: Driving in actual traffic with an instructor to master lane discipline, speed control, and safety.
Step 5: The Final Road Test
This is the final step. An RTA examiner will sit with you to evaluate your driving skills. If you pass, you will receive your license almost immediately. If you fail, you must take a few additional hours of training before booking a retest.
Conclusion
Getting your UAE driving license category B is the first step for becoming a driver in the UAE. While it takes some patience to clear all the UAE driving license category B requirements, at the end of the day, it will definitely be worth it, as you will be able to drive your own car.
It is an investment of time and money, but it completely changes how you live and move. Just keep in mind that before you start cruising, getting your car insurance sorted is just as vital as the license itself. Rules can shift, so stay tuned to RTA updates. Once you have passed that final test and secured your insurance, you are all set to enjoy the UAE’s world-class roads on your own terms.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. What vehicles can I drive with a UAE driving license category B?
You can drive light vehicles, including sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs, designed to carry up to 8 passengers and weighing less than 2.5 tons.
2. How old do I need to be to apply for category B?
The minimum age to hold the license is 18, but you can start the application process and training at 17.5 years old.
3. What are the main requirements for UAE driving license category B?
The core requirements include a valid UAE residence visa, a passed eye test, a valid Emirates ID, and the completion of the mandatory theory and practical training hours.
4. Can I upgrade from category 2 to category B?
Unfortunately, you can’t just “swap” or upgrade directly. Since riding a bike and driving a car are totally different skills, you’ll need to open a new file for a UAE driving license category B. You still have to go through the training and pass the tests, though you might find the theory part a bit easier the second time around.
5. How long is a UAE driving license valid?
A UAE driving licence is valid for 2 years when first issued. After renewal, it’s valid for 5 years for most residents and up to 10 years for UAE and GCC nationals.
6. Can tourists apply for UAE driving license category B?
Not for a permanent one, as you need a residency visa. However, tourists from many countries can drive rentals using their home license or an International Driving Permit.
