Moving to Dubai can be an exciting adventure, but the thought of having to reapply for a driving license can be daunting. Thankfully, if you already hold a driving license from your home country, you may be eligible for a direct exchange to a UAE driving license without needing to retake driving tests. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to convert your international driving permit to a UAE license.
Requirements
Before starting the process, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Emirates ID
- Original Driving License from your home country
- Legal Arabic Translation of your driving license
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor
- Two Passport-Sized Photos
- Completed Application Form
- Valid Eye Test Result from an RTA-accredited eye test center
How to Apply
Online Application via RTA Website
- Log in to the RTA website using your Emirates ID, passport details, or traffic file number.
- Alternatively, use your UAE Pass for a seamless login experience.
- Navigate to the application page by clicking ‘Apply for a New Driving Licence or a New Category Based on Exchanging Licence.’
- Update your phone number in the system and verify your identity using the OTP sent to your phone.
- Specify the country where your driving license was issued.
- Enter your license details and select the license category.
- Attach a copy of your driving license and submit the application.
- Pay the required fees using your debit or credit card.
- Receive a reference number to monitor your application’s status.
In-Person Application at RTA Customer Happiness Centres
You can also visit any RTA customer happiness centre. These centres are open from Monday to Thursday (8 am to 7:30 pm) and on Friday (8 am to 12 pm).
- Submit the required documents at the centre.
- Request to add the required category to your driving license.
- Settle the required fees at the centre.
For Singaporean Residents
If you’re a Singaporean resident, follow these additional steps through the accredited driving institutes:
- Submit the required documents.
- Open a traffic file if applying for the first time.
- Book an appointment for the knowledge test.
- Settle the fees at the centre.
- Pass the knowledge test to receive your license.
Service Fees
The costs for converting your license are as follows:
- Dh200 to open your file with RTA
- Dh600 for the issuance of the new Dubai license
- Dh50 for the traffic manual
- Dh20 or more for ‘Knowledge and Innovation’ fees
For Singaporean residents:
- Dh200 to open your file with RTA
- Dh100 for a learning application
- Dh50 for the traffic handbook
- Dh400 for the knowledge test
- Dh300 for the issuance of the driving license
- Dh20 or more for ‘Knowledge and Innovation’ fees
How to Claim Your License
Once your application is approved, visit any RTA customer happiness centre with your original driving license and Emirates ID. Your identity will be verified, and your new UAE driving license will be printed and handed to you.
For Apple device users, an electronic version of your license can be received through the Apple Wallet via the RTA Dubai App.
Validity
- Two years if you are 21 years old or older.
- One year if you are under 21 years old.
Eligibility
You are eligible for a direct license exchange if your driving license was issued from one of the following countries:
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Belgium
Canada
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Holland
Hong Kong
Ireland
Italy
Japan
Kuwait
New Zealand
Norway
Oman
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Romania
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
South Korea
Singapore
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
UK
US
Note: This article is based on a report from Khaleej Times.
