A valid driving licence is not only essential for legally driving in the UAE, but it's also required for obtaining car insurance. Here's a complete guide covering everything you need to know about getting, renewing, and applying for both national and international driving licences in the UAE.
UAE Driving Licence Categories
The UAE issues driving licences across eight vehicle categories. Your licence must match the vehicle type you drive:
| Category | Vehicle Type | Minimum Age | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Motorcycle | 17 | — |
| 2 | Light Motor Vehicle | 18 | Up to 3.5 tonnes |
| 3 | Heavy Vehicle | 20 | Category 2 licence required |
| 4 | Bus | 21 | Category 2 licence required |
| 5 | Light Trailer | 18 | Category 2 licence required |
| 6 | Heavy Trailer | 20 | Heavy vehicle licence required |
| 7 | Forklift | 20 | Basic forklift knowledge |
| 8 | Heavy Forklift | 21 | Experience with regular forklift |
Eligibility Criteria
Motorcycles: 17 years
Light Vehicles: 18 years
Heavy Vehicles: 20 years
Buses & Heavy Forklifts: 21 years
How to Apply for a UAE Driving Licence: Step-by-Step
Open a Traffic File: At a registered driving centre.
Complete an Eye Test: At an RTA-approved centre.
Enroll in Driving School: Complete theory and practical classes.
Pass the Theory Test: Multiple-choice questions on safe driving practices.
Obtain Learner’s Permit: Required before road testing.
Pass Parking and Road Tests: Includes practical assessments.
Receive Your Licence: Submit final documents, pay fees, and collect your licence.
Required Documents for a UAE Driving Licence
Original and copy of passport with residence visa
Emirates ID (original and copy)
No Objection Certificate (if required)
Passport-sized photographs
Eye test receipt
Estimated Cost of Getting a Driving Licence
The total cost varies depending on the emirate and driving school but generally ranges between:
AED 4,500 – AED 7,000
This includes training classes, eye tests, and administrative fees.
Mandatory Classes and Tests
Theory Classes
8 hours minimum at approved driving schools
Covers traffic signs, safety, and hazard management
Theory Test
35 questions split into three parts
Available in Arabic, English, and Urdu
Must pass before proceeding to practical training
Practical Training
No prior licence: 40 classes
2–5 year old foreign licence: 30 classes
Over 5 years: 20 classes
Parking Test
Includes tasks like slope parking, emergency braking, and parallel parking. Failing five times means repeating practical classes.
Final Road Test
Conducted by the licensing authority. If passed, you receive your driving licence on the same day.
How to Renew Your Driving Licence in the UAE
Renewing is available online in most emirates:
Dubai
Platform: RTA Website or Dubai Drive App
Fees: From AED 300 (plus AED 10 knowledge and innovation fees)
Delivery: Pick-up or courier for AED 25
Abu Dhabi
Platform: TAMM or Abu Dhabi Police App
Fees: AED 300 (21+ years) / AED 100 (under 21)
Sharjah
Platform: MOI Website or MOI UAE App
Fees: Similar to Abu Dhabi
Documents Required for Renewal:
Emirates ID
Previous licence
Passport photo
Valid eye test
How to Apply for an International Driving Licence (IDL)
Online Application
Platforms: ATCUAE Website or MOI App
Processing Time: 2–3 weeks
Required Documents:
Application form
Passport copy
Emirates ID copy
UAE Driving Licence copy
2 Passport-sized photos
Offline Application
Locations:
RTA Offices
ATCUAE Branches
Emirates Post Offices
Dnata Office
Cost: AED 170 + VAT
Processing Time: Issued on the spot
Popular Driving Schools in the UAE
| Emirate | Driving School | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | Emirates Driving Company | +971 6 0058 8880 |
| Dubai | Emirates Driving Centre | +971 4 263 1100 |
| Dubai | Belhasa Driving Centre | +971 4 324 3535 |
| Sharjah | Sharjah Driving Institute | +971 6 538 2020 |
| Ras Al Khaimah | Al Taleb Motor Driving School | +971 7 222 3295 |
| Fujairah | Fujairah National Driving Institute | +971 9 236 0037 |
Holding a valid UAE driving licence is essential for both personal and legal reasons. Whether you're a resident or an expat, following the official process ensures safety, compliance, and insurance eligibility. Renewals and international driving permits have also been simplified thanks to digital services across all Emirates.