How to Get a UAE Driving Licence in Dubai (RTA Process, Tests & Exchange)
If you live in Dubai, you need a UAE licence to drive. To get your UAE driving licence (also called a Dubai driver's license), open a traffic file with an RTA-approved driving institute — the RTA driving license route. You pass an eye test. You take theory classes and pass a Knowledge test. You take practical driving lessons. Then you pass a Yard test for parking and a final Road test. Do you hold a licence from a country the RTA recognises? Then you can usually exchange it directly, with no tests. A new licence is valid for 2 years if you are age 21 or over. It is valid for 1 year if you are under 21.
At a glance
- Cost:
- Varies by institute package (check rta.ae for current fees)
- Total time:
- Weeks to months (training route); 1–3 days (exchange)
- Steps:
- 8 steps
- Where to apply:
- u.ae
Last reviewed November 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due November 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UAE sources(November 2026).
0 of 8 steps
- Before You Go Self-check
Check eligibility and your route
The minimum age is 17 for cars and light vehicles (since 29 March 2025). From 1 January 2027, a light vehicle needs 18 under the new federal traffic rules. It is 17 for motorcycles. It is 20 for heavy vehicles. And it is 21 for buses. Choose your route. You can take the full training route. Or you can exchange your licence directly if it comes from a country the RTA recognises. This list changes by ministerial decision. So always check your country on the RTA portal before you apply.
Click to mark as done
- Go 1–3 days
Open a traffic file
Apply on rta.ae. Log in with your Emirates ID, passport, or UAE Pass. Choose a driving institute and send your application. The institute calls you within about 3 working days. You agree on your training package in that call.
Click to mark as done
- Go Same day Varies by centre (confirm on rta.ae)
Pass the eye test
Take the eye test at an eye-test centre accredited by the RTA. You get the result on the same day.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare Days to weeks Included in institute package
Theory classes + Knowledge test
Finish the theory classes first. Then book the RTA Knowledge test and pass it. This is the theory test.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare Weeks to months Varies by institute
Practical training
Finish the practical lessons you need at the institute. The number of hours depends on your experience. Ask the institute to confirm your package. Package prices differ from institute to institute. Confirm the full price before you sign up. Ask if the price includes fees for retaking tests.
Click to mark as done
- Go Same day
Pass the Yard (parking) test
This is an automated test in the Smart Yard. It checks how you handle a slope and the emergency brake. It also checks angle parking, garage parking, and parallel parking.
Click to mark as done
- Go Same day Issuance fees on rta.ae
Pass the Road test
The last step is the RTA road test in real traffic. If you pass, you get an SMS. The SMS tells you to pay the licence issuance fees on rta.ae and choose how to get your licence. If you fail a test, you book it again and retake that stage. Before you can retake the road test, you usually need extra practical lessons.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay 1–3 working days Confirm current fees on rta.ae
Alternative route: direct licence exchange
If you qualify, apply on rta.ae. Upload a copy of your licence and take the eye test. Then show your original licence at a Customer Happiness Centre for verification. Pay the fees and collect your licence. You do not take any theory or practical tests. The reported processing time is 1 to 3 working days. Check the current fees on rta.ae.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive in Dubai on my foreign licence while I wait?
Visitors can drive with a valid foreign licence or an International Driving Permit during their visit. Once you become a resident, you need a UAE licence. Or you can exchange your foreign licence, if your country qualifies.
How long is a new UAE licence valid?
A first licence is valid for 1 year if you are under 21. It is valid for 2 years if you are 21 or over. When you renew, the rules change. UAE and GCC citizens get 10 years. Expatriate residents over 21 get 5 years. These figures come from u.ae.
Does Abu Dhabi work the same way?
The process is broadly the same. But Abu Dhabi uses TAMM and Abu Dhabi Police for licensing. It has its own institutes and booking systems. Apply in the emirate that issued your residence visa.
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