If you have ever watched a city bus glide through Dubai’s busy streets during rush hour, you have probably noticed how much responsibility rests on the driver. Operating heavy buses goes far beyond steering a large vehicle; it involves passenger safety, traffic awareness, and strict schedules. To meet these standards, drivers must comply with UAE driving license category F Requirements, which are closely linked to UAE driving license category 6. Holding a valid UAE Heavy Buses Driving License, also known as Heavy Buses Driving License Dubai, ensures drivers are legally certified to operate public and heavy buses safely across the UAE.
Category 6 known as driving license category F under UAE driving license categories list is the license issued to drivers who operate heavy buses in the UAE. These buses are commonly used for public transport, staff transportation, school routes, and tourism services.
For anyone aiming to work as a professional bus driver, this license is essential. In Dubai, holding a valid heavy bus driving license Dubai authorities recognize is a basic requirement for employment in this field. In the following, We will cover any requirements you may need to obtain this license.
Too Long; Didn’t Read (TL;DR)
- UAE driving license category 6 is required to legally operate heavy buses in Dubai and across the UAE.
- The heavy bus driving license Dubai process includes medical tests, theory classes, and practical driving exams.
- Applicants usually need prior driving experience and must meet age and residency conditions.
- Training covers vehicle control, passenger safety, and RTA regulations.
- Costs and duration vary depending on the training package and driving institute.
UAE Driving License Category 6 Requirements
Before enrolling in training, applicants must meet a set of eligibility conditions defined by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). These rules ensure that only qualified and medically fit drivers can operate passenger vehicles safely. The UAE driving license category 6 requirements are closely aligned with UAE driving license category F Requirements, making UAE driving license category F the recognized standard for licensing heavy and public bus drivers across Dubai and the UAE.
The main requirements usually include:
- Minimum age
Applicants are generally required to be at least 24 years old to apply for a heavy bus license. - UAE residency status
A valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID are mandatory for non-UAE nationals. - Existing driving license
Most applicants must already hold a UAE driving license, typically for light vehicles, for a minimum period before upgrading. - Medical fitness test
Drivers must pass an RTA-approved medical examination to confirm they are physically fit to drive heavy vehicles. - Eye test
An eye test conducted at an RTA-approved optical center is required and electronically linked to the RTA system.
Remember that all applicants (nationals and residents) must meet safety and medical standards before moving forward with UAE heavy buses driving license training.
Heavy Bus Driving License Training in UAE
Training for a heavy bus license is designed to prepare drivers for real-life situations on busy roads. Unlike standard car training, this program places greater emphasis on responsibility, anticipation, and vehicle control. Applicants for UAE driving license category 6 and UAE driving license category F must complete both theoretical and practical training through an RTA-approved driving institute before licensing.
Training typically covers:
- Heavy bus controls and maneuvering techniques
- Passenger safety and emergency handling
- Proper use of mirrors and blind-spot awareness
- Defensive driving strategies
- RTA traffic rules specific to heavy vehicles
Theory sessions take place in classrooms and focus on rules, safety procedures, and decision-making. Practical lessons, on the other hand, put trainees behind the wheel of an actual heavy bus. These sessions are essential for anyone pursuing UAE driving license category 6 or UAE driving license category F, as they teach how a fully loaded bus behaves differently from a car, especially when braking, turning, or navigating tight spaces.
Documents Required for Heavy Bus Driving License in Dubai
Paperwork may not be the most exciting part of the process, but having the right documents ready can save a lot of time. When applying for a heavy bus driving license Dubai training program, applicants are usually asked to submit the following:
- Emirates ID
- Passport copy
- Valid UAE residence visa
- Passport-sized photographs
- RTA-approved medical fitness certificate
- RTA-approved eye test result
- Copy of current UAE driving license
If the application involves upgrading from another license category, additional documents related to previous driving history may be required. Some employers also request an internal approval letter before allowing drivers to enroll in UAE driving license category 6 training.
Fees for Heavy Bus Driving License in Dubai
The cost of getting a heavy bus license in Dubai varies depending on the driving institute, training hours required, and the number of test attempts. Fees usually include training sessions, RTA tests, and administrative charges.
On average, applicants can expect costs to fall within these ranges:
- Training and testing fees: AED 10,000 – AED 18,000
- RTA and knowledge test fees: Included or charged separately depending on the package
Below is a simple comparison to give a general idea:Prices can change, so it is always best to confirm directly with the driving institute before registering for UAE heavy buses driving license training.
| Package Type | Description | Estimated Cost (AED) |
| Standard Package | Regular training schedule | 10,000 – 14,000 |
| Intensive Package | Shorter duration, more sessions | 15,000 – 18,000 |
Category 6 Driving License Training Schedule & Duration
Heavy bus training programs are usually structured to fit working professionals. Most RTA-approved institutes in Dubai offer flexible schedules with multiple batch options.
Common scheduling features include:
- Weekday and weekend classes
- Morning and evening training slots
- Fixed weekly lesson plans
The total duration of training depends on prior driving experience. For drivers upgrading from a light vehicle license, the process may take between 4 to 8 weeks. Those with less experience may require additional sessions before attempting the final road test for UAE driving license category 6.
How to Apply for UAE Heavy Buses Driving License
Applying for a heavy bus license in Dubai follows a structured process managed through RTA-approved driving institutes such as Emirates Driving Institute (EDI) and Galadari or other driving schools in Dubai. While the exact steps may vary slightly between institutes, the overall process is usually the same.
Here is a step-by-step overview:
1. Choose an RTA-approved driving institute
Select a training center that offers UAE heavy buses driving license programs.
2. Open a training file
Register online through the institute’s website or visit a branch in person.
3. Complete eye and medical tests
Tests must be conducted at RTA-approved centers and linked to your file.
4. Submit required documents
Provide Emirates ID, passport, visa, and existing license details.
5. Attend theory classes
Learn rules, safety procedures, and heavy vehicle regulations.
6. Complete practical training
Practice driving a heavy bus under instructor supervision.
7. Pass RTA tests
You need to pass theory and road tests conducted by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Make sure you read tips to pass the RTA test, before the actual exam.
8. License issuance
Once approved, the heavy bus license is issued and linked to your Emirates ID and you get physical card.
Conclusion
Getting a UAE driving license category 6 is a vital step for anyone planning to work as a professional heavy bus driver in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE. Whether transporting staff, tourists, or passengers on scheduled routes, this license, along with UAE driving license category F, confirms that you have the skills, discipline, and awareness required to handle large vehicles safely. Proper car insurance coverage is essential before starting, as it protects both drivers and passengers.
The process involves several steps, from medical checks to training and exams, and is well structured when completed through an RTA-approved driving institute. Securing the right car insurance also ensures compliance with UAE laws. With proper preparation, a clear understanding of UAE driving license category 6 requirements, and valid car insurance, drivers can confidently pursue stable careers. Additionally, maintaining continuous car insurance coverage safeguards your career and investments in this high-demand sect
Frequently Answered Questions
1. What is a UAE driving license category 6?
UAE driving license category 6 is the license that allows drivers to operate heavy buses used for public transport, staff transportation, and tourism services.
2. Who is eligible for a heavy bus driving license in the UAE?
Anyone who is over 24 years old and meets residency, medical, and previous driving experience criteria can apply for a heavy bus driving license Dubai training program.
3. What documents are needed to apply for a heavy buses driving license in Dubai?
Applicants need Emirates ID, passport, residence visa, medical and eye test certificates, and a valid UAE driving license.
4. How long does it take to get a category 6 license?
The process usually takes between four and eight weeks, depending on the applicant’s driving background and training schedule.
5. Do I need prior driving experience before applying for a heavy bus driving license in Dubai?
Yes, most applicants are required to hold a UAE driving license for another category before upgrading to UAE heavy buses driving license.
6. Can non-UAE nationals apply for a category 6 license?
Yes, non-UAE nationals can apply as long as they meet the UAE driving license category 6 requirements and hold a valid UAE residence visa.
