Here you can get to know everything about how to apply for a driving license in UAE.
Highlights
- Introduction
- Steps to Apply for a Driving License in UAE
- Learn Driving
- Undergo an Eye Test
- Start a Traffic File
- Pass the theory Test and Internal Practical Training
- Schedule your Road Test Date and Get a Driving Permit
- Complete a Minimum of Six Hours of External Road Training
- Complete the Road Test
- Get your Driving License
- Minimum Age Requirement
- FAQs
Introduction
While living in UAE, every individual must use transportation to move from one place to another. Therefore, a lot of people use public transport but that is not a feasible option for everyone. Therefore, a lot of people prefer to drive to their destinations on their own. However, it is not possible without a driving license in UAE. To drive vehicles in UAE for personal, commercial, or professional use, you have to apply for a Driving license in UAE here is how you can do it.
Steps to Apply for a Driving License in UAE
Below are the steps to apply for Driving License in UAE
- Learn Driving
- Undergo an Eye Test
- Start a Traffic File
- Pass the theory Test and Internal Practical Training
- Schedule your Road Test Date and Get a Driving Permit
- Complete a Minimum of Six Hours of External Road Training
- Complete the Road Test
- Get your Driving License
Learn Driving
The first step in applying for a Driving License in UAE is to learn to drive. Get yourself registered at any driving school in UAE. After registration, the applicants must complete all the lessons and complete the test successfully to apply for a driving license. Here are some of the best driving schools in Abu Dhabi.
Undergo an Eye Test
You have to undergo an eye test from the Traffic and Licensing Department recognized optician in UAE. He/ she will examine your eyesight to make sure you are eligible to drive. The fee for an eye test is around AED 100.
Start a Traffic File
The next step is to open a traffic file. Request the relevant emirate government to open a traffic file. To do this, you need to select the type of license you are applying for, provide all the necessary documents, fill in a form, and pay the fee. This traffic file will allow the applicants to continue with their training on roads and proceed to get the license. The documents required for opening a traffic file are:
- Emirates ID
- Eye Test Certificate
- Personal Photo
Pass the theory Test and Internal Practical Training
After getting your Traffic File Number, visit the Emirate Driving Company. Enrol for Theory classes and test along with parking and yard training. You need to take the following documents with you:
- Traffic File Number
- Emirate ID
- Passport Copy
- Latest Photo
- Residency Visa Copy
In the case of 17 years, the applicants have to provide a guardian’s No Objection Certificate (NOC). This document is not required if the applicant is 18 years old or above.
Schedule your Road Test Date and Get a Driving Permit
Then you need to book a date for your road test which will give you a Driving permit. Each emirate has a designated online portal to book a road test date. Choose a location to carry out the test. After scheduling your Road Test Date, you get a training permit for external practical training or external road training. After this, the applicants can take practical driving classes.
Complete a Minimum of Six Hours of External Road Training
Another step to apply for a Driving license in UAE is to complete a minimum of six hours of external road training. There are several driving companies in UAE that take six hours of external road training. You need to take the following documents along with you:
- Traffic File Number
- Emirates ID
- Passport Copy
- Training Permit
- Personal Photo
- Residence Visa Copy
- Proof of Successful Completion of Theory Exam and Internal Practical Training
Complete the Road Test
This is the final step to apply for a driving license in UAE is to complete the road test. Visit the traffic licensing department branch in UAE that is stated in your Traffic File. Undergo a road test in the licensing branch. After successfully completing it, you can obtain your driving license.
Get your Driving License
After successful completion of the road test and meeting all the requirements, you can continue to get your driving license either an e-driving license card or a physical driving license card.
- E-driving License Card: The authorities will either e-mail you or send it via SMS.
- Physical Driving license: It is issued within 10 days of application. The applicants can collect it from the designated collection point.
Minimum Age requirement
The age requirements for getting a driving license in UAE depend upon the type of vehicle you are applying for.
- 17 years for motorcycles and vehicles for special persons.
- 18 years for cars and lightweight motors.
- 20 years for tractors and heavy-weight vehicles.
- 21 years for buses.
FAQs
Can foreigners get a driving license in UAE?
Yes, foreigners in UAE have to go through the application procedure to obtain a driving license. Those who belong to key countries can transfer their unexpired driver’s license to a UAE license.
Is a UAE Driving license difficult to get?
It may seem a little hard to get a UAE driving license. However, you can pass it easily with confidence, preparation, and proper knowledge.
How long is UAE driving license valid?
The UAE driving license is valid for two years.
How many times can I fail the driving test in UAE?
There is no minimum amount of failed attempts to obtain a UAE driving license. However, it is advisable to complete it earlier so you do not have to go through the whole procedure again.
How to Apply for a Driving License in UAE?
To apply for a Driving license in UAE, you have to reach out to designated authorities and clear the driving tests and meet the necessary requirements.
What type of Theory test is there in UAE Road Test?
RTA continues to update the test. However, the general test includes multiple-choice questions that include knowledge about road signs and traffic rules.
How to prepare for a theory test for a UAE Driving license?
You can prepare for a theory test for a UAE Driving license from the sample tests as well as the official driver’s handbook to familiarise yourself with the road and traffic situations.
