How to Get an International Driving Permit in the UAE
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your UAE driving licence. It lets you drive legally in many other countries. It is valid for 1 year from the day it is issued. You must always carry it together with your original UAE licence. You cannot use it to drive inside the UAE. Only UAE citizens and residents with a valid UAE licence can get a UAE IDP. Tourists must get one in their home country before they travel.
At a glance
- Cost:
- AED 197 via RTA; AED 170 + VAT via the Automobile and Touring Club
- Total time:
- Same day (counter/airport) to 3 working days (online via the club)
- Steps:
- 6 steps
- Where to apply:
- rta.ae
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UAE sources(October 2026).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go Self-check
Confirm you are eligible
You must be a UAE citizen or a resident of the UAE. And you must hold a valid UAE driving licence. Tourists and visitors cannot get a UAE IDP. You also cannot get one if your UAE licence is suspended or expired.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 2 working days AED 197
Apply via RTA
Apply on rta.ae or in the RTA Dubai app. Confirm your identity. Submit the application. Then pay. The fee is AED 177 plus AED 20 in Knowledge and Innovation fees, so AED 197 in total.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare 30 min (counter) to 3 working days (online) AED 170 + VAT
Or apply via the Automobile and Touring Club UAE
You can apply online or at a club counter. An application at the counter usually takes about half an hour. An online application takes about 3 working days. Delivery can take up to 5 working days. The fee is AED 170 plus VAT.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare ~5 minutes ~AED 170 + VAT
Or use the Dubai Airport counter
There is a Customer Happiness Centre in Terminal 3 Arrivals at Dubai International Airport. It issues IDPs in about 5 minutes, 24/7. It is for citizens and residents who hold a valid UAE licence. The fee is about AED 170 + VAT (per Emirates 24/7).
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay Varies Delivery AED 20–50
Pay and receive the permit
Collect the original permit from a Customer Happiness Centre in Deira or Al Barsha. Or have it sent to you by courier. Delivery costs extra. Standard delivery is AED 20. Same-day delivery is AED 35. Delivery within two hours is AED 50. International delivery is AED 50 (GCC only). The RTA no longer issues a digital international licence. Always carry the original IDP when you are abroad.
Click to mark as done
- Follow Up Ongoing
Carry both licences abroad
The IDP alone is not enough. Carry your original UAE driving licence with it. Before you rent a car, check the rules of your destination. Some countries accept a UAE licence. Some require an IDP. Some have a minimum age, or rules about how long you must have held your licence.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the IDP valid?
One year from the date it is issued. You cannot renew it. When it expires, apply for a new one.
Can I drive inside the UAE on an IDP?
No. The IDP is only for driving abroad. Inside the UAE, you drive on your UAE licence.
Can a tourist get an IDP in the UAE?
No. Tourists must get an International Driving Permit in their home country before they travel to the UAE.
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