HomeCar Insurance BlogDriving License GuideComprehensive Guide to Driving License in Dubai, UAE

Comprehensive Guide to Driving License in Dubai, UAE

Having a valid driving license is mandatory for anyone driving a car in Dubai. Without a valid license, a driver can face fines, imprisonment, or even deportation for expatriates. The law is clear: only those with a proper driving license are allowed behind the wheel.

Thankfully, obtaining a driving license in Dubai is a straightforward process tailored to the needs of citizens, residents, and expatriates. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or looking to renew your license, this guide from Lookinsure mag will provide you with a step-by-step breakdown to ensure you meet all the requirements and avoid any unnecessary hurdles.

Frequently Answered Questions

1. How many days to get a driving license in Dubai?

It typically takes 3 to 6 months to get a driving license in Dubai, depending on how quickly you pass the theory and road tests and complete the mandatory driving lessons. The timeline can vary for those opting for VIP services or fast-track options.

2. How to get a driving license in Dubai?

To get a driving license in Dubai, open a traffic file with the RTA, complete the required theory and practical training, and pass the knowledge, yard, and road tests. The process begins at an RTA-approved driving school, and applicants must meet the age and residency requirements.

3. How to get an international driving license in Dubai?

You can apply for an international driving license through RTA’s customer happiness centers or online via their official website. Required documents include a copy of your UAE driving license, passport, Emirates ID, and a recent photograph. Fees start at 170 AED.

Who is Eligible for a Driving License in Dubai?

In Dubai, eligibility for a driving license depends on age, residency, and medical fitness. Here’s what you need to know:

Age Requirements

The driving license age in Dubai varies depending on the type of vehicle:

118 years for motorcycles and light vehicles
221 years for heavy vehicles, buses, and large trucks

For those under 18, driving is not allowed under any circumstances. However, individuals above 21 may apply for licenses for specialized vehicles, provided they meet additional requirements.

Residency and Medical Fitness

1Only citizens and residents with valid Emirates IDs can apply for a Dubai driver’s license
2Applicants must pass a mandatory eye test at an authorized optician, which ensures that they meet the visual acuity standards for safe driving

When obtaining a driving license in Dubai, one of the key requirements is the eye test for driving license in Dubai. Make sure you complete this test as part of the process to ensure you’re eligible for a valid license and to avoid any delays.

Required Documents for Dubai Driving License

To apply for a driving license in Dubai, you must submit specific documents based on your residency status and individual circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of what is needed:

Required Documents for Dubai Driving License

For Citizens and Dubai Residents:

  • Valid Emirates ID.

For Residents with Visas Issued in Other Emirates:

  • One of the following as proof of residence in Dubai:
    • Copy of a tenancy agreement approved by Ejari or a Title Deed.
    • Copy of the company’s trade license (Dubai branch and the branch that issued the residency).
    • Letter from the company confirming employment in Dubai.
    • Official document proving current student status in Dubai.

For Diplomats:

1Copy of the diplomatic passport
2Emirates ID (if available)
3Valid diplomatic card for embassies, consulates, or international organizations instead of an Emirates ID
4A letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, valid for at least six months from submission

For People of Determination:

  • Copy of the certificate of transfer to a doctor issued by the Licensing Agency.
    Note: The medical test must be conducted at Rashid Hospital.

For Emirati Passport Holders Without a Family Book (Marsoom Holders):

1Copy of the valid passport
2Copy of the valid Marsoom

For Sons of Emirati Women:

1Copy of the valid passport
2A valid letter from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs confirming the customer’s mother is Emirati

For Golden Visa Holders with a Driver’s License from Their Home Country:

1Copy of the customer’s previous valid driving license
2Knowledge Test and Road Test results

Many residents of Ajman work in Dubai, making it important to understand the differences in licensing procedures between the two emirates. For instance, obtaining a driving licence in Ajman may have different requirements compared to Dubai, including the number of training hours or specific documentation. Comparing these can help those who commute between the two emirates make informed decisions.

The Cost of Driving License in Dubai

The fees for obtaining a driving license in Dubai depend on the type of license, tests required, and additional services requested. Below is a detailed breakdown:

To Request a New Driving License:

  • Learning Permit Fees:
    • 100 AED for motorcycles, light vehicles, and light automatic vehicles.
    • 200 AED for light buses, heavy buses, light equipment, heavy equipment, and heavy vehicles.
  • 200 AED to open a traffic file.
  • 50 AED for the handbook manual.
  • 140–180 AED for an electronic eye test at authorized Eye Test Centers.
  • 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.

For Issuing a New Driving License:

Customers younger than 21 years old100 AED
Customers 21 years old and above300 AED
Knowledge and Innovation fees20 AED

Changing the Driving Learning Permit:

From Manual to Automatic (or vice versa)200 AED + 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees
From Regular to SpecialFree of charge

Transferring the Permit

To a Branch of the Same InstituteFree of charge
To a Different Driving InstituteFees vary depending on the institute

Adding a New Category to the Driving License:

  • 200 AED new license fees + 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.

For Licenses Not Issued Within a Year of Passing the Road Test

To open a training file200 AED
For a learning application100 AED
For the handbook manual50 AED
For issuing the driving license300 AED
RTA test fees200 AED
Knowledge and Innovation fees20 AED

Driving Test After License Withdrawal or Cancellation

RTA test fees200 AED
To open a training file200 AED
For a learning application100 AED
Rehabilitation fees3,000 AED
Knowledge and Innovation fees20 AED

Cost for Booking Tests

If you are booking or rescheduling driving tests, the following fees apply:

  • Driving Test (Knowledge, Yard, or Road):
    • 200 AED RTA test fees.
    • 300 AED to reschedule the test date if postponed.
    • 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.
  • Remote Interpretation for Knowledge Test:
    • 400 AED + 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.
  • Evaluation Test:
    • 200 AED evaluation test fees + 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.
  • VIP Driving Test:
    • 2,600 AED VIP service fees for the practical test + 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.
  • Instant Test (for unexchangeable licenses and golden chance applicants):
    • 400 AED instant service fees for Knowledge and Practical tests + 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.

Selecting the Right Driving School in Dubai

Choosing a reputable driving school is a crucial step in the driving license process in Dubai. There are different Driving Classes in Dubai, each with unique benefits:

Selecting the Right Driving School in Dubai

Emirates Driving Institute (EDI)

  • Known for its comprehensive curriculum and multilingual trainers.
  • Offers VIP and fast-track packages.

Galadari Driving Centre

  • Popular among budget-conscious learners.
  • Specialized courses for heavy vehicles.

Dubai Driving Center

  • Provides flexible class schedules and weekend training options.

When selecting a school, consider factors like proximity, language options, and class timings. Many schools also offer packages for expats seeking the fastest way to get driving license in Dubai.

How to Open a Traffic File in Dubai

Opening a traffic file is the first official step to obtaining a car license in Dubai. Here’s what to do:

  1. Visit your chosen driving school with your Emirates ID, passport, and visa copy.
  2. Submit the required documents and pay the AED 200 fee.
  3. Your school will register you with the RTA and guide you through the next steps.

This process is straightforward and essential to begin your training.

Process of Getting a Driving License in Dubai

Let’s take a look at the process together:

Process of Getting a Driving License in Dubai

Theory Classes and Test

The theoretical component focuses on traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.

  • Classes are available in person or online.
  • The theory test consists of multiple-choice questions and can be taken in your preferred language.

For tips, check How to Pass RTA Road Test.

Practical Training

Practical training is where you’ll learn essential driving skills.

  • Lessons cover parking, lane discipline, and driving in various traffic conditions.
  • Practice sessions are conducted with certified instructors.

Internal Tests

Before the final RTA road test, you’ll need to pass internal assessments for yard parking and other skills.

Road Test

This is the final hurdle. You’ll drive under the supervision of an RTA examiner. Success here means you’re ready to receive your license.

How to Renew Your Dubai Driver’s License

Renewing a driver’s license is streamlined and rather easy compared to getting a new license from scratch. There is no need to retake the road test, but an eye test is required.

Requirements for Driving License Renewal in Dubai

Requirements for Driving License Renewal in Dubai

For All Nationalities

1Valid Emirates ID
2Eye test, valid for two years
3A comprehensive medical fitness test is required if the customer’s profession is listed as a “driver.” This test must be done at hospitals accredited by the RTA

For Diplomats

1A letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
2Emirates ID (if available)
3A valid diplomatic card for embassies, consulates, or international organizations in place of the Emirates ID

For People of Determination (Physical Disabilities)

  • A copy of the certificate of transfer to the doctor issued by the Licensing Agency.
    Note: The medical test must be conducted at Rashid Hospital.

For Emirati Passport Holders Without a Family Book (Marsoom Holders)

1Original valid passport
2Copy of the valid Marsoom

For Sons of Emirati Women

1Copy of the valid passport
2A valid letter from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs confirming the customer’s mother is Emirati

The Cost of Renewing a Driver’s Licence

For Customers Younger Than 21 Years Old

Driver’s license renewal fees100 AED
Knowledge and Innovation fees20 AED
Mobile truck service for the eye test and license renewal (optional)500 AED

For Customers 21 Years Old and Above

Driver’s license renewal fees300 AED
Knowledge and Innovation fees20 AED
Mobile truck service for the eye test and license renewal (optional)500 AED

If the Driving License Hasn’t Been Renewed for Over 10 Years

Training file opening fees200 AED
Learning application fees100 AED
Handbook manual50 AED
RTA test fees200 AED
Delay fine for license renewal500 AED
Driving license renewal fees300 AED
Knowledge and Innovation fees20 AED

Notes:

  • A delay fine of 10 AED per month is charged from the expiry date of the license, with a maximum of 500 AED.
  • For licenses expired over 10 years, you must pay the periodic renewal fees and undergo an evaluation test.

To Replace a Lost or Damaged License

Customers younger than 21 years old100 AED
Customers 21 years old and above300 AED
Knowledge and Innovation fees20 AED

To Amend Driving License Data:

  • 100 AED.
  • 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.

Dubai Driving License Expiration Grace Period and Fines

Once your license expires, you have a 30-day grace period to renew it without penalties. After this period, fines will apply, including any Black Points in Dubai.

  • AED 10 per month (up to AED 500).
  • For long delays, additional testing and fines may be required.

For more information, explore Traffic Fines Check.

Get Your Car First Insurance in Dubai

After obtaining your United Arab Emirates driver’s license, securing car insurance is your next step. The two main types are:

  • Comprehensive Insurance: This covers damages to your vehicle and third-party liabilities.
  • Third-Party Insurance: Covers damages to others but not your vehicle.

For a detailed comparison, read comprehensive vs third party insurance.

Obtaining a driving license in Dubai is an organized and accessible process. From choosing a driving school to passing the road test, every step is designed to ensure road safety and driver competency. Following this guide will help you navigate the process with ease, so you can enjoy the freedom of driving in the UAE with peace of mind.

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Abolfazl Shafiee
Abolfazl Shafiee
A couple of things you need to know about me is that, a) there is nothing I enjoy more than writing and, b) I love cars. So writing about car insurance is kind of a hobby for me, and because of that, I'm pretty good at it as well. Moreover, I have no tolerance for jargon-filled writings that only a select few can understand, so simplifying technical content has always been my top priority.

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