The UAE driving license category E becomes a key piece of your story. If you’re planning to drive specialized or heavy-duty vehicles, in this case, you can’t just rely on a standard license. Knowing the difference between UAE driving license categories, especially UAE driving license category 5, can make or break your plans on the road.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what Category E is, how it compares to other categories, and how you can successfully apply for it. By the end, you’ll clearly understand the UAE driving license category E requirements, the vehicles it covers, the application steps you need to take, and even how car insurance plays a role.
Too Long; Didn’t Read (TL;DR)
- UAE driving license category E allows driving multiple vehicle types abroad, such as light vehicles, heavy vehicles, light buses, heavy buses, and sometimes trailers.
- UAE driving license category 5 is the local UAE license for driving light buses or minibuses used inside the UAE.
- To drive inside the UAE, you must apply for the correct numbered category (such as UAE driving license category 5), not Category E.
UAE driving license category E Requirements
- The minimum age is 21 years.
- valid UAE residency visa
- Emirates ID
- eye test
- existing lower-category license before upgrading.
Training includes:
- theory classes, practical driving sessions, and RTA tests.
You can add a new category to your UAE driving license through the TAMM platform after passing the road test.
Always check official RTA or UAE government sources for the latest rules and updates before applying.
Understanding UAE Driving License Category E
Driving on UAE roads requires a valid driving license, and the types of driving licenses in the UAE vary according to the type of vehicle.
What is the UAE driving license category E?
According to the official RTA international driving licence service, the international license version Category E may authorize a combination of vehicle types, including light vehicles, heavy vehicles, light buses, and heavy buses under one umbrella, when used for driving abroad.
What Vehicles Does Category E Cover?
When referenced in international driving permits, UAE driving license category E may combine multiple vehicle types under the international classification scheme. This means someone holding an international Category E license could be authorized to drive:
- Heavy vehicles (large trucks)
- Light buses
- Heavy buses
On the other hand, UAE driving license category 5 covers light buses or minibuses.
UAE Driving License Category E Requirements
To apply for a Category 5 driving license in the UAE, applicants must meet several essential conditions:
- The minimum age is 21 years old.
- a valid UAE residency visa and Emirates ID.
- An eye test is mandatory for all applicants and must be completed.
- valid Category 2 driving license for light vehicles before upgrading to Category 5.
- complete both theoretical and practical training.
- Practical training usually includes around 20 hours of supervised driving.
- pass the final RTA road test.
These UAE driving license category E Requirements ensure that UAE driving license category 5 drivers are fully qualified to operate light buses safely and responsibly, in line with UAE driving license categories and regulations.
Comparing Category E with Other Categories
The UAE enforces strict traffic regulations to maintain road safety. Driving licenses are divided into eight official categories, each tied to specific vehicles. Make sure you meet UAE driving license category E requirements if you plan to operate passenger vehicles, including the UAE Light Buses Driving License or Light Buses Driving License Dubai.
Differences between Category E and Category 5
To avoid confusion, let’s compare UAE driving license category E with UAE driving license category 5:
UAE Driving License Category 5
- This is a local UAE category for light buses and minibuses, often the closest equivalent for advanced passenger vehicles, usually up to about 14 to 26 passengers.
- The minimum age requirement is generally 21 years.
- It often requires that the driver already holds a valid license for lighter vehicles before upgrading.
UAE driving license category E
It usually refers to a classification on an International Driving Licence (IDL) that expands vehicle permissions outside the UAE. While not a regular local category, it can cover light and heavy buses, including the UAE Light Buses Driving License or Light Buses Driving License Dubai, as well as light trailers and heavy trucks.
Differences between Categories A, B, C, D and E
The following table outlines the key differences between Categories A, B, C, D, and UAE driving license category E, in addition the vehicles covered by each license.
| Category | Vehicle Type Allowed | Main Use |
| Category A | Motorcycles | Personal transportation using motorcycles |
| Category B | Light vehicles such as cars and SUVs (up to 3.5 tons) | Private and personal driving |
| Category C | Heavy trucks and heavy vehicles | Commercial transport and logistics |
| Category D | Buses (large passenger buses) | Public or private passenger transport |
| Category E | Multiple vehicle types (light vehicles,buses, heavy vehicles, light trailers) | Driving abroad under an International Driving License |
UAE Driving License Categories 1-8
Besides UAE driving license category 5 and UAE driving license category E Requirements, The UAE system includes categories like:
| Category | Vehicle Type | Minimum Age |
| 1 | Motorcycles (two or three wheels) | 17 years |
| 2 | Light vehicles | 18 years |
| 3 | Heavy vehicles and tractors | 20 years |
| 4 | Buses (over 30 passengers) | 21 years |
| 5 | Light trailers | 21 years |
| 6 | Heavy trailers | 21 years |
| 7 | Forklifts (commercial areas) | 21 years |
| 8 | Heavy forklifts | 21 years |
UAE driving license category E Fits:
- Residents seeking to drive heavy, specialized, or passenger vehicles within the UAE must apply under the appropriate local numbered category that meets those needs.
If your goal is to drive in the UAE itself, apply for UAE driving license category 5, the numbered category that matches the vehicle you intend to operate, and make sure you match the UAE driving license category E Requirements.
Driving License Fees in the UAE
Here is all about Driving License Fees in the UAE:
Learner’s Permit Fees
- AED 100 for a learner’s permit for motorcycles and light vehicles.
- AED 200 for a learner’s permit for heavy buses, heavy trucks, heavy vehicles, and light or heavy mechanical equipment.
Driving License Issuance Fees
- AED 100 for applicants under 21 years old.
- AED 300 for applicants 21 years old and above.
Other Mandatory Fees
- AED 200 to open a traffic file.
- AED 50 for the safe driving guide.
- Eye test fee: usually between AED 140 and AED 180, depending on the testing center.
Adding a New Category to a UAE Driving License
It usually refers to a classification on an International Driving Licence (IDL) that expands vehicle permissions outside the UAE. While not a regular local category, it can cover light and heavy buses, including the UAE Light Buses Driving License or Light Buses Driving License Dubai, as well as light trailers and heavy trucks.
Required Documents
- Original UAE driving license
- Original Emirates ID
- Valid eye test report (not older than 6 months)
Steps
- Submit the application with the required documents.
- Pay the applicable fees online or at the service center.
- Receive the updated driving license.
Cost
- AED 200 to add a new category to the driving license
How to Apply for UAE Driving License Category E?
Whether your goal is an international Category E or an equivalent local category like UAE driving license category 5, follow these easy steps to apply for UAE Driving License Category E:
1. Preparation and Documents
Start by gathering your key documents, those are UAE driving license category E Requirements:
- Valid Emirates ID and passport.
- Valid UAE residence visa page.
- Passport-style photographs.
- Proof of prior license (if you are upgrading to a heavier category).
- Recent eye test certificate.
If you want an international driving license with Category E coverage:
- Visit the official RTA international driving licence portal or service center.
- Provide your valid UAE driving license as the base.
2. Medical and Eye Tests
Before you start theory or practical lessons, you’ll undergo:
- A standard eye test fo driving license at an accredited center.
3. Required Training to get UAE driving license category E
- eye test
- theory classes (8 sessions) followed by a theory exam
- highway driving sessions at speeds up to 120 km/h
- practical driving training (40 sessions)
- parking test, an assessment test
- the final road test.
Make sure you match with UAE driving license category E Requirements and required tests.
4.Tests and Licensing
For local equivalents:
- Take the official RTA theory test.
- Pass the practical driving test to get UAE driving license category 5.
For international IDL:
- Complete the application through the RTA platform, pay fees, and receive your international document with UAE driving license category E permissions.
Tips to Make the Process Easier
- Book your eye test and theory classes early, centers are often busy.
- Study the UAE road rules carefully; the theory test checks safety knowledge.
- Practice driving under varied conditions to be confident for the practical exam.
Conclusion
To sum up, UAE driving license category E typically refers to the international driving license classification. For driving specific vehicle types such as minibuses or larger passenger vehicles, you’ll apply for the appropriate numbered UAE license category, like Category 5, which has UAE driving license category E Requirements.
Understanding these differences, including UAE driving license category 5 and what’s required for each vehicle type, ensures you’re legally and safely behind the wheel, whether you’re driving in the UAE or abroad. Always verify the latest requirements with official authorities like the RTA or the UAE government service portals before applying.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. What vehicles can I drive with a UAE driving license category E?
Category E can include permissions for light vehicles, heavy vehicles, and buses when traveling abroad. The UAE driving license category 5 covers Light trailers, buses and minibuses.
2. What is the minimum age to apply for category E?
One of UAE driving license category E Requirements, the minimum age is generally 21 years old.
3. What documents are required for UAE driving license category E?
You need your valid Emirates ID, passport with residence visa, recent eye test results, current UAE driving license, and passport-style photos.
4. Can I upgrade from category 5 to category E?
Since Category E is typically an international designation, there isn’t a direct “upgrade” from Category 5. Instead, you can add international driving permissions or pursue higher local categories such as heavy buses or trucks as needed.
5. How long is a UAE driving license valid for category E?
Often 2 years if you’re 21 or older, for accurate details, check with RTA services.
6. Are tourists allowed to apply for UAE driving license category E?
No, applying for a UAE driving license (including Category E) usually requires residency and specific conditions.
