Can Indian licence holders convert without a test?

No. Indian nationals must pass both RTA theory and practical tests before obtaining a UAE licence.

How long does conversion take?

If all documents are ready, the process takes one visit plus five working days for the plastic card to be issued.

Is an eye test mandatory?

Yes. Every applicant must submit a fresh eye test from an RTA-approved optician before conversion is approved.

Convert Your Driving Licence to UAE Licence by Country

Who Can Convert Their Licence in 2026

Only citizens of listed countries can convert without a driving test. All other nationalities must pass the full RTA theory and practical tests. The eligible list includes Australia, Canada, the EU member states, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Your original licence must be valid and issued at least one year before your UAE residency visa date.

Documents You Need

Prepare the following before you visit an RTA centre: original national driving licence, passport copy, Emirates ID, and valid UAE residency visa. You also need a recent eye test report from an approved optician and four passport-size photos. If your licence is not in English or Arabic, obtain a certified translation from an RTA-approved translator. Bring the original translation with you.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

First, book an appointment on the RTA website or app. Pay the 400 AED conversion fee at the centre. Hand over your documents for verification. The officer will check your licence against the 2026 eligibility list. If approved, you receive a temporary permit on the spot. Collect your new plastic UAE licence within five working days from the same centre.

Country-Specific Rules

UK and EU licence holders need only the documents above. US and Canadian licences must show the issue date clearly. South African and Australian licences require an International Driving Permit in addition if they are older than five years. Japanese and South Korean licences need an Arabic translation even if they contain English text. Always confirm your exact requirements on the RTA site before travelling to the centre.

Renewal and Validity After Conversion

The new UAE licence is valid for five years for most nationalities and ten years for UAE nationals. You must renew it at any RTA centre before expiry. Renewal costs 400 AED plus a 20 AED knowledge fee. If you leave the UAE for more than six months, your converted licence becomes invalid and you must start the process again on return.

Ask Tovi for more

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →