If you are in the UAE, you may have heard of the UAE driving license category C. What do you know about it? If you are a resident in the UAE and get a job as a truck driver and want to drive big cargo trucks legally, but do not know which license you need. Just like many residents, understanding UAE driving license categories is key before stepping into any vehicle.
One specific license many people ask about is the UAE driving license category C, which is a driving license for heavy trucks in the UAE. In this guide, you will learn exactly what UAE driving license category 3 means, UAE driving license category C Requirements, how it compares with other categories like category 3, and how to apply. Let’s explore everything in detail!
Too Long; Didn’t Read (TL;DR)
UAE driving license category C is one of the driving license categories list, focusing on heavy trucks designed for individuals aiming to operate heavy vehicles exceeding 3,500 kg.
UAE driving license category C Requirements:
- Minimum Age: at least 20 years old.
- Required tests: Completion of both theory and practical driving tests.
Prerequisite License: A valid Category B (light vehicle) license is required. - Application Steps:
- Prepare necessary documents for UAE driving license category 3 (Emirates ID, residency visa, etc.)
- Enroll in an accredited heavy vehicle training course
- Pass theoretical and practical exams
- Submit the application and fees to the traffic authority
- Receive a Category C license after approval
Understanding the UAE Driving License Category C
You’ve probably heard about the different names and classifications of driving licenses in the UAE, depending on the type of vehicle you drive. This includes the UAE Driving License Category C, also known as UAE Driving License Category 3, as well as the UAE Light Vehicle Driving License, or Light Vehicle Driving License Dubai, for standard passenger cars.
What exactly is the UAE driving license category C?
Category C generally refers to a heavy truck driving license, one that allows the holder to drive larger commercial vehicles such as heavy trucks or tractor-trailers that are heavier and more complex than normal cars.
The third UAE driving licence category C includes all types of heavy vehicles weighing more than 3.5 tons.
UAE Driving License Category C Requirements
To apply for the UAE driving license category C, applicants must meet a set of requirements. These ensure the driver is physically fit and experienced enough to operate heavy vehicles safely and get a UAE driving license category 3. Here are the third driving licence category C requirements in UAE:
- Minimum Age: at least 20 years old t
- Residency: a valid UAE residency visa and Emirates ID, which shows you are legally living in the UAE.
- Medical and Vision Tests: eye test and, in some cases, a full medical exam, especially if you are older or hold a professional driver’s visa.
- Driving Experience: For some heavy categories, the applicant must have a Category 2 driving licence for at least a year; this can be recommended, though these rules vary by emirate according to basic rules for driving in the UAE. Obtaining a driver’s license is essential, even mandatory,
Comparing Category C with Other Categories
In the UAE, driving licenses are divided into different categories, each allowing you to drive a specific type of vehicle. These categories are defined by the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) and related traffic bodies across all Emirates.
In the UAE Driving License Category List, there are numbers that correspond to letters. For example, category C corresponds to category 3. Some may use category C for heavy vehicles and number 3 for light vehicles, but most often both are used for the same heavy vehicle classification and the same UAE driving license category C Requirements and conditions, including obtaining category 2.
differences between Category A, B & C
1. UAE driving license category A: Motorcycle Driving License
- This license category is designed for riders who operate motorcycles with two or three wheels.
- Applicants must be at least 17 years old.
2. UAE driving license category B: Light Motor Vehicle Driving License
- The light motor vehicle driving license is intended for drivers of private cars and light commercial vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and small trucks
- To apply for this license, the minimum age is 18 years.
3. UAE driving license category C: Heavy Truck Driving License
- This license category applies to heavy trucks and commercial vehicles with a weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes
- Applicants for UAE driving license category 3 must be at least 20 years old and match with UAE driving license category C Requirements.
Who should apply for Category C and why?
A Class C license is for experienced drivers who need to operate heavy vehicles over 3,500 kg, with a trailer up to 750 kg.
It is granted only to drivers who already hold a valid car and provisional lorry license, are in good health, and can pass both theory and practical driving tests.
The UAE driving license category C isn’t the only option in the UAE; other licenses exist depending on the vehicle type, each with specific requirements. For example, the UAE Driving License Category 3 can be compared to the UAE Light Vehicle Driving License or Light Vehicle Driving License Dubai, which cover standard passenger vehicles.
| License Class | Permitted Vehicle Type | Examples / Specifications | Minimum Age | Special Eligibility Requirements |
| Category A | Motorcycles | Two-wheel and three-wheel motorcycles | 17 years | No additional conditions |
| Category B | Light Motor Vehicles | Sedans, SUVs, and small pickup trucks | 18 years | No additional conditions |
| Category C | Heavy Vehicles and Tractors | Large trucks and heavy-duty buses | 20 years | Must hold a Category 2 license for at least one year |
| Category D | Passenger Buses | Buses designed to carry more than 30 passengers | 21 years | No additional conditions |
| Category E | Light Trailers | Trailers up to 750 kg for private, non-commercial use | 21 years | Valid Category 2 driving license required |
| Category F | Heavy Trailers | Trailers exceeding 750 kg | 21 years | Valid Category 3 driving license required |
| Category G | Forklifts (Commercial Use) | Forklifts operated in warehouses and commercial facilities | 21 years | No additional conditions |
| Category H | Heavy Forklifts | Heavy-duty forklifts used in industrial sectors | 21 years | Valid Category 7 driving license required |
Understanding these categories helps drivers apply for the correct license. According to driving regulations in the UAE, obtaining a driver’s license is essential, even mandatory, just like having valid car insurance in UAE, to avoid fines and penalties.
Driving License Issuance Fees in the UAE
| Fee Type | Vehicle / Service Category | Amount (AED) |
| Learner’s Permit Fee | Motorcycles and light vehicles | 100 |
| Learner’s Permit Fee | Heavy buses, heavy trucks, light and heavy mechanical equipment, and other heavy vehicles | 200 |
| Driving License Issuance Fee | Applicants under 21 years of age | 100 |
| Driving License Issuance Fee | Applicants aged 21 years and above | 300 |
| Traffic File Opening Fee | One-time application fee | 200 |
| Safe Driving Guide Fee | Mandatory guide fee | 50 |
| Eye Test Fee | Approved eye testing centers | 140 – 180 |
Note: Always check the Driving License Issuance Fees in the UAE with the relevant authorities. These fees may vary from one emirate to another.
How to Apply for a UAE Driving License Category C?
After we know what the UAE driving license category 3 and UAE driving license category C Requirements, let’s walk through the application process step by step:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before you apply, gather essential documents to Apply for a UAE Driving License Category C:
- original Emirates ID along with a copy
- a copy of a valid passport
- a copy of the UAE residence visa.
- Two recent passport-size photos
- a valid eye test for driving license.
- In some cases, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor may be requested by the traffic authority.
Step 2: Choose an Approved Driving School
Get heavy vehicle training in an approved driving school that will guide you through theory lessons and practical training specific to heavy trucks.
Step 3: Training and Tests to get UAE driving license category 3
You will need to:
Attend theory classes focused on road safety and rules for heavy vehicles.
Once training is completed, applicants must pass a series of tests designed to assess both knowledge and driving skills,These include:
- eye test
- theory classes (8 sessions) followed by a theory exam
- practical driving training (40 sessions)
- a parking test, an assessment test
- highway driving sessions at speeds up to 120 km/h
- the final road test.
Make sure you match the UAE driving license category C Requirements and required tests.
Step 4: Driving License Application Process
After passing tests, you submit your approved results and documents to the relevant traffic authority (such as RTA in Dubai or equivalent in other Emirates).
- Opening a traffic file at an approved driving center in the relevant emirate
- Completing an eye test at an authorized center
- Attending all mandatory driving classes
- Passing all required tests set by the traffic department.
After successfully completing all stages, the UAE driving license C or others will be issued by the relevant traffic authority.
Tips for a Smoother Process:
- Book your eye test early; many centers offer quick appointments.
- Practice consistently before your road test to build confidence and get the UAE driving license category 3 easily .
- Keep your paperwork organized and match with UAE driving license category C Requirements to avoid delays.
The UAE driving license category C is essential for anyone planning to drive heavy trucks or commercial vehicles legally in the UAE. Its requirements are simple: be at least 21, pass an eye test, complete specialized training for heavy vehicles, and pass both theory and practical exams, alongside the UAE Light Vehicle Driving License or Light Vehicle Driving License Dubai for standard vehicles.
Make sure you understand all about UAE driving license category 3 and follow the correct application steps. Always check official government sources like the RTA or the UAE government portal for the latest rules and updates before applying.
Frequently Answered Questions
What vehicles are allowed under UAE driving license category C? .1
Category C typically includes heavy trucks and large commercial vehicles that require advanced driving skills compared with light cars.
2. How old do I need to be for category C?
According to UAE driving license category C Requirements, you must be at least 20 years old to apply for a heavy vehicle license like UAE driving license category 3.
3. What documents are required for UAE driving license category C?
Required documents include a valid Emirates ID, residency visa, passport, eye test report.
Can I upgrade from category 3 to category C? .4
Yes, holders of a light vehicle license often pursue category C for heavy vehicles, though specific requirements vary by emirate.
5. How long is a UAE driving license valid for category C?
A new driver’s license is usually valid for two years for citizens; when you renew your driver’s license, it is extended from 5 to 10 years.
6. Are tourists allowed to apply for UAE driving license category C?
No, tourists generally cannot apply for a UAE driving license Category C (heavy truck license) while visiting, because this type of license is only issued to residents with requirements.
