UAE Driving Licence Rules 2027: Validity, Ages & Tests
From 1 January 2027, new federal traffic rules set how long a UAE driving licence lasts, who can get one, and what it takes to pass. The rules come from Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, which puts Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 into practice. Drivers under 21 get a 1-year temporary licence. First-time drivers aged 21 or over get 2 years. On renewal, UAE and GCC citizens get 10 years and expatriate residents get 5 years. Both the theory and practical tests need 75% to pass, and a dangerous mistake can still fail you even if you hit 75%.
At a glance
- Cost:
- Licence fees vary by emirate and driving institute
- Total time:
- 10 minutes to read
- Steps:
- 6 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 6 steps
- Before You Go Self-check
Know how long your licence lasts
Article 55 of the new rules sets the validity by age and status. If you are under 21, your licence is temporary and lasts 1 year. You can renew it for another year. If you are 21 or over and this is your first licence, it lasts 2 years. When that licence comes up for renewal, the period depends on who you are. UAE citizens and GCC citizens get 10 years. Expatriate residents get 5 years. Each renewal lasts the same period again.
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- Before You Go Self-check
Check the minimum age for your vehicle
The new rules set a different minimum age for each type of vehicle. A category 1 motorcycle needs 17. A category 2 motorcycle needs 21. A light vehicle needs 18. A heavy vehicle needs 20. A light bus needs 21, and a heavy bus needs 21. If you are under the age for the vehicle you want, you cannot open a traffic file for it yet.
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- Go Same day
Pass the theory test (75%)
Before the practical test, you must pass a theory exam on traffic rules, road regulations, and driving ethics. Article 65 scores it out of 100. You need at least 75 marks to pass. You take it after your theory classes at your driving institute.
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- Go Same day
Pass the practical test (75%, and drive safely)
Article 68 sets the practical pass mark at 75% of the total marks. But the score alone is not enough. You fail on the spot if you cause actual or potential danger to yourself or other road users, or if the examiner has to step in, by voice or by hand, to stop something dangerous. That applies even if your score is 75% or higher. If you fail, Article 69 says you are booked for another attempt.
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- Follow Up Same day (digital)
Renew on time
When your licence runs out, renew it through your emirate licensing authority. In Dubai that is the RTA. You need an eye test and a valid Emirates ID, and you must clear your traffic fines first. A renewed licence lasts 10 years for UAE and GCC citizens and 5 years for expatriate residents. Under-21 renewals stay at 1 year.
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- Follow Up At registration
Two-year vehicle registration is now an option
The same decision changes vehicle registration too. Article 98 keeps the standard 1-year vehicle licence, renewable. But a light vehicle can now be registered for 2 years if three things are true: it is a new light vehicle licensed for the first time, it is no more than 6 years old from its date of manufacture, and it is owned by a natural person. Ask your licensing authority whether your vehicle qualifies.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
I already have a licence. Do the new rules change it?
The new rules take effect on 1 January 2027. A licence you already hold keeps the expiry date printed on it. The new validity periods apply to licences issued or renewed from that date. Check your expiry date and renew in good time.
Is the 75% pass mark new?
No. The old traffic rules also asked for 75%. What the 2027 rules add is clear wording: a dangerous error, or an examiner stepping in, fails you even if your score reaches 75%.
Can I get a licence at 17?
Yes, for a category 1 motorcycle. A light vehicle needs 18, a heavy vehicle needs 20, and buses need 21.
What happens if I fail the practical test?
You are booked for another attempt under Article 69. Your institute will tell you what extra lessons you need before you retake it.
How long is a first licence valid?
One year if you are under 21, and two years if you are 21 or over. After that, renewal gives 10 years to UAE and GCC citizens and 5 years to expatriate residents.
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