Can I drive in Sharjah with a Dubai licence?

Yes, any UAE-issued driving licence is valid across all emirates including Sharjah.

How long is the Sharjah theory test valid?

Your theory test result is valid for one year from the date of passing.

Do I need an Arabic translation of my foreign licence?

Only if the licence is not in English; it must be attested by MOHRE-approved translators.

Can I take the test in my own car?

No, all tests must be conducted in an SDI dual-control training vehicle.

What happens if I fail the road test three times?

You must complete five extra training hours before booking a fourth attempt; fees apply.

How to Apply for Driving Licence in Sharjah 2026

Quick answer

Non-GCC expats must first convert a valid foreign licence or pass RTA theory and road tests at Sharjah Driving Institute. You need an Emirates ID, eye test, medical fitness certificate, and pay fees ranging from AED 620 to AED 1,200 depending on nationality and test attempts. Processing takes 1–5 working days once all documents are approved.

Who needs a Sharjah driving licence?

Anyone driving a vehicle registered in Sharjah must hold a UAE driving licence issued by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Sharjah branch. Tourists may drive with an International Driving Permit plus their home licence for up to six months, but residents need the local licence within 30 days of receiving their Emirates ID.

Eligibility and age requirements

You must be at least 18 for light vehicles and 21 for heavy vehicles. GCC citizens can convert their licence directly; others must either convert an existing licence or sit the full RTA test. Minimum height is 150 cm for light-vehicle applicants.

Documents you need in 2026

Original passport with valid UAE visa
Emirates ID (physical card)
Eye test certificate from any RTA-approved optic centre (AED 100)
Medical fitness certificate from a DHA-approved centre (AED 300–500)
Two passport-size photos with white background
Proof of residence (Ejari tenancy contract or DEWA bill)
Translated and attested foreign licence (if converting)

Step-by-step application process

Step 1: Book your eye test and medical

Visit an RTA-approved optician in Sharjah for the eye test, then book a medical at Al Qassimi Hospital or University Hospital. Results are uploaded directly to the RTA system.

Step 2: Create an RTA account and select Sharjah branch

Register or log in at rta.ae, choose “Driving Licence Services”, then pick Sharjah Driving Institute (SDI) as your training centre. Pay the application fee (AED 220) to open your file.

Step 3: Theory test preparation

Download the official RTA handbook or use the RTA Smart Drive app. The test has 40 multiple-choice questions; you need 30 correct answers. SDI offers a two-day theory course for AED 400.

Step 4: Book and sit the theory test

Book via the app or SDI reception. The test is computer-based and available in English, Arabic, and nine other languages. Failures cost AED 100 for a retake.

Step 5: Practical training and yard test

Complete a minimum of 20 hours behind-the-wheel (AED 2,500–3,200 package). After internal assessment, you attempt the yard test covering parking, hill start, and vehicle control. Two free attempts are included; each extra attempt costs AED 200.

Step 6: Road test

Book the final on-road test through SDI. An examiner rides with you for 15–20 minutes covering roundabouts, highway merges, and parking. AED 300 per attempt.

Step 7: Licence issuance

Once you pass, pay the licence fee (AED 320 for 10 years) and collect your card at SDI the same day or within 48 hours via SMS collection.

Common mistakes expats make

Skipping the eye test before booking the theory slot—your application will be blocked.
Using an unapproved translation company for foreign licences; only MOHRE-attested translators are accepted.
Underestimating training hours—many need 25–30 hours, not the minimum 20.
Letting medical or eye-test certificates expire (they are valid only 30 days).

Cost breakdown for 2026

Application & file opening	AED 220
Eye test	AED 100
Medical fitness	AED 300–500
Theory course (optional)	AED 400
Theory test (first attempt)	Included
Practical training package	AED 2,500–3,200
Yard test (extra attempts)	AED 200 each
Road test	AED 300 each
Licence (10 years)	AED 320

Verify current fee with RTA Sharjah before payment.

Converting an existing licence

If you hold a valid GCC, UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, or Japan licence, you can convert it without tests. Submit attested translation, medical, and eye test. Fee is AED 620. Processing takes two working days.

Renewing or replacing your licence

Renew online via RTA app 30 days before expiry. Fee is AED 320 for 10 years. Replacement for lost licence costs AED 150 plus police report from Sharjah Police E-Services.

Key takeaway

Plan for AED 3,500–4,500 total and 4–6 weeks from first visit to receiving your plastic card. Book everything through the official RTA portal, use only DHA-approved centres, and allow buffer time for extra practical lessons—most expats pass on the second or third road-test attempt.