UAE Driving Licence: Rules, Ages and Foreign Licence Exchange

01Getting a new licence

Citizens and expatriate residents who are learning to drive must take lessons at a registered driving institute and pass the tests set by the local transport authority. The UAE government portal describes the process as:

1. open a traffic file,
2. take an eye test,
3. complete the driving classes,
4. pass the tests, and
5. collect the licence.

In Dubai, the transport authority is the RTA. The process and fees are set by the authority in your emirate, so check its official channels before you enrol.

02Minimum ages

• 17: motorcycles and vehicles for people with special needs.
• 18: cars and light vehicles.
• 20: heavy vehicles and tractors.
• 21: buses.

03How long it is valid

• New licence: 1 year if you are under 21, and 2 years if you are 21 or older.
• Renewed licence for expatriate residents: 5 years if you are over 21, and 1 year if you are under 21.

Traffic fines must be settled before you renew.

04Exchanging a foreign licence

The government portal says that some expatriate residents can exchange a valid driving licence issued by their home country, and that the applicant must be at least 18. It also mentions that some visitors may drive on their national licence and exchange it if they will be living in the UAE.

The portal page does not list which countries qualify, the documents, or whether a test is skipped. It links to a Ministry of Interior service for replacing a foreign licence. Because rules differ by country and emirate, ask the RTA or your emirate’s transport authority whether your licence qualifies before you spend money on lessons.

If you are buying a car at the same time, read our Drive Dubai car guide, and see the driving and transport guide for Salik, parking and public transport.

FAQFrequently Asked Questions