Having a driving license in the UAE is a crucial asset for individuals from all walks of life. Whether you are a job seeker, a working professional, or a stay-at-home parent, possessing a driving license can significantly impact your ability to thrive in the UAE.
Ranked as having one of the world’s best infrastructures, the UAE was recognized as the third-best in the world by the World Economic Forum in 2015. This exceptional infrastructure makes driving a necessity in the country. Driving without a license can result in severe legal consequences, making it imperative to obtain one. While the UAE boasts an excellent public transport system, having a driving license provides added convenience and flexibility.
In addition to public transport, we have a comprehensive article detailing everything you need to know about utilizing public transportation in the UAE. Be sure to check it out for more information.
In this article, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to obtain a light motor vehicle license in the UAE.
Do UAE residents need a license in 2018?
Who can apply?
You need to be:
To apply for a light motor vehicle license in the UAE, individuals must be citizens or residents of the country who are over the age of 18. It is important to note that motorcycles and heavy vehicles have their specific requirements for licensing.
Additionally, applicants must be medically fit, which includes passing an eye test. This ensures that drivers have the necessary physical capabilities to operate a vehicle safely on the roads of the UAE.
What documents does one need?
To open a traffic file, the following documents are necessary:
– A copy of the passport and residence visa page
– A copy and original Emirates ID card
– 2 photographs
– An eye test report
– A no-objection letter from the sponsor (if requested by the relevant traffic department)
For Emiratis, only an Emirates ID is needed. Expats, on the other hand, must provide both an Emirates ID and a resident visa.
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor is a requirement for certain professions. Detailed information regarding these professions can be obtained at any driving center or on the Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) website. The RTA has recently implemented an online system that allows sponsors to issue NOCs, streamlining the process and making it more efficient.
In addition to the NOC, applicants are also required to undergo eye tests to assess visual acuity and color blindness. Many optical shops throughout the country offer eye test reports specifically for individuals applying for a driving license. To obtain this report, simply visit a nearby optical shop and inquire about their services. Prices for these tests may vary depending on the emirate in which you are applying.
What if one already has a driving license, though? Can one drive in the UAE?
Citizens from approximately 30 countries have the privilege of converting their foreign driving license to a UAE one. For individuals from other countries, the following process must be followed to obtain a license.
Which centers can one apply to?
UAE’s federal website provides the following list of registered driving centers in the country:
Abu Dhabi
- Emirates Driving Company – 600 588880
Dubai
- Emirates Driving Institute – 04 263 1100
- Dubai Driving Centre – 04 345 5855
- Galadari Motor Driving Centre – 04 2676166
- Belhasa Driving Centre – 800 2354272
- Al Ahli Driving Center 800-252454
Sharjah
- Sharjah Driving Institute – 06 538 2020
Ras Al Khaimah
- Ras Al Khaimah Driving Academy – 07 233 2888
Fujairah
- Fujairah National Driving Institute – 09 201 4000
How many classes should one register for?
The number of training hours required can vary significantly depending on your driving experience, ranging from 10 to 40 hours.
Most centers provide applicants with the opportunity to undergo a road test after completing 10 training hours, provided they possess a valid driving license from another country. In addition, applicants must attend eight mandatory theory classes and pass a theory test before proceeding to training on UAE roads.
To determine the specific number of training hours needed to register, it is advisable to consult with your chosen center. However, passing the driving test on your first attempt is no easy feat.
For those looking to save money, consider making a one-time payment as many centers offer discounted rates for a set number of training classes.
Also Read: You can drive in over 40 countries with your UAE driving license
Automatic or manual – which license should one get?
While manual driving enthusiasts may find joy in the hands-on experience of shifting gears, the majority of driving applicants opt for an automatic vehicle license due to the simpler vehicle management rules. Automatic vehicles offer a more straightforward driving experience, making them a popular choice among new drivers.
Whether you choose one or the other, here are some basic differences you need to keep in mind:
Having a manual license allows you to operate any light motor vehicle, regardless of whether it has a manual or automatic transmission. On the other hand, an automatic license restricts you to driving only vehicles with automatic transmissions.
If you currently hold an automatic license from the UAE and wish to switch to a manual license, you can do so by enrolling in a driving school and taking a manual road test. Upon successfully passing the test, your license will be converted to a manual one.
It is recommended by driving schools that applicants undergo some training before taking the road test to increase their chances of passing.
How much will it cost?
When you enroll in a driving school, you will be charged a one-time fee that covers the registration fee, road test fee, and license issuance fee. If you choose to take additional training classes, the cost of those classes will also be included in the one-time payment.
The total costs of enrolling in a driving school can differ depending on the institute you choose. To get more information about the specific costs in your emirate, it is recommended to contact the driving school directly.
What are the tests that one needs to take?
The tests an applicant needs to take are:
- Theory test
- Parking test
- Road test
Theory tests can prove to be more challenging than anticipated, as they assess applicants on their knowledge of road signs, rules for driving on highways or busy junctions, and proper responses to road hazards. Fortunately, many driving institutes provide complimentary online mock tests to aid in your preparation for success. A simple online search can yield numerous practice tests to utilize before taking the official exam.
The parking test, commonly referred to as the yard test, evaluates the applicant’s proficiency in maneuvering the vehicle in various scenarios, including:
- Parallel parking
- Side parking (60 degrees angle)
- Garage parking
- Hill
- Sudden braking.
Have you completed your yard test? Now, Dubai driving learners will be informed by the computer.
Road tests are often considered the most challenging, with many residents having to take multiple tests before finally obtaining their license. If you are looking for tips and tricks on how to pass your road test and what to avoid, be sure to click on the links provided below.
Driving schools in the UAE enforce strict training regulations, closely monitoring every move made by trainees.
Once you have been scheduled for the road test, you will join a group of applicants who will take the car out for a drive with a traffic officer. Each applicant will have the opportunity to drive, being evaluated on various aspects of driving according to UAE road regulations. The group will then return to the driving center to receive their test results.
Dubai recently announced the use of artificial intelligence to automate road tests.
While many residents find obtaining a driving license in the UAE to be a challenge, others have shared with Gulf News that they found the process to be surprisingly easy.
If you successfully pass the test, congratulations! You are now the proud holder of a UAE driving license.
For how long is the licence valid?
A new driver’s license is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years. However, for drivers under the age of 21, the validity of the license is only one year.
Upon successfully completing the driving test, the license is issued at designated departments within each driving center.
Can one get a bike licence?
Applicants who possess a motorcycle license from any of the recognized countries listed above are eligible to convert their current license to a UAE motorcycle license automatically.
For those with a motorcycle license from a country not included in the list, there is an option to register for fewer classes before undergoing a road test. Beginners are required to complete a mandatory 15 hours of training at most centers before being eligible to take the road test.
The training program covers a comprehensive range of topics related to motorcycle operation in the UAE, such as motorcycle control, balance, lane discipline, gear usage, clutch operation, and understanding traffic signs. Additionally, there are 8 theory classes that must be completed, with many centers offering the convenience of online classes.
Documents required
Required Documents for Driving License Application:
– Original Emirates ID
– Copy of Passport
– Eye test results
– 2 passport size photographs
– NOC (No Objection Certificate) from sponsor may be required in certain cases
– Visa copy may be requested by the center in certain cases
If you possess a driving license from your home country and wish to take fewer classes, you must provide a valid driving license along with a legal translation if it is not in English or Arabic. Handwritten or book format licenses must be attested by the home country embassy/consulate.
The validity of a bike license is typically two years, which is the same as a light motor vehicle license. However, there is an exception for drivers under the age of 21.
Does one need to get a desert driving licence?
Sharjah has recently implemented a mandatory desert driving license requirement, while other emirates provide optional training for individuals looking to enhance their dune bashing abilities. This training covers various aspects of desert driving, including mastering the vehicle’s swing technique, understanding basic vehicle mechanics, identifying different types of desert terrain, and learning safety techniques.
Drivers working for desert safari companies must possess a specialized driving license. However, residents in emirates other than Sharjah can also enroll in one-day training courses offered by select driving institutes. It is important to note that not all driving centers provide this course, so it is advisable to inquire with your driving institute about the availability of such training opportunities.
Required documents
To be eligible for this position, you must possess either an original and valid UAE car driver’s license that is valid for at least six months, or an original and valid international car driver’s license that is also valid for at least six months.
