Can tourists apply for a UAE driver’s licence?

Tourists cannot obtain a full UAE licence; they may drive with a valid foreign licence plus an International Driving Permit for up to six months.

How long does it take to get a licence if I convert?

Direct conversion usually takes one working day once your medical fitness certificate is ready and approved by RTA.

What is the minimum age for an expat to drive in Dubai?

Expats must be at least 18 years old for light vehicles and hold a valid residency visa.

Do I need to take theory and road tests to convert my licence?

Only if your country is not on the RTA reciprocity list; otherwise you skip tests and simply exchange documents.

Can I pay RTA fees using Apple Pay or credit card?

Yes, the RTA app and all customer happiness centres accept major cards, Apple Pay, and cash.

How to Apply for a Driver's License in UAE 2026

black and white car instrument panel cluster

Quick answer

If you hold a valid foreign driving licence and meet the age requirements, you can convert it to a UAE licence in a few days. New drivers must complete theory, yard and road tests at an RTA-approved school. All fees are paid in AED and most processes now happen through the RTA app or customer happiness centres.

Who needs a UAE licence?

Anyone driving a vehicle registered in the Emirates must carry a UAE-issued licence. Tourists may drive with an International Driving Permit plus their home licence for up to six months, but long-stay expats must convert or obtain a local licence within 30 days of residency visa stamping.

Eligibility and age limits

Light vehicles: 17 years 6 months (UAE nationals), 18 years (expats).
Motorcycles: 17 years.
Heavy trucks and buses: 21–30 years depending on category.

Minimum height is 150 cm for light-vehicle applicants. Medical fitness from a DHA- or MOHRE-approved centre is mandatory.

Documents you need

Emirates ID or passport copy with valid residency visa.
Original foreign driving licence plus translation if not in English or Arabic.
Passport-size photo with white background.
Medical fitness certificate issued within the last three months.
No-objection letter from sponsor if required by your visa type.

Step-by-step application process

1. Book eye and medical tests

Use the RTA app or visit an approved centre such as Al Baraha Medical Fitness Centre in Dubai. Fees range from AED 300–500 depending on the package. Results upload automatically to the RTA system.

2. Open a traffic file

Log in to the RTA Dubai app with your Emirates ID or ICP portal credentials. Choose “Issue new traffic file” and pay the AED 200 opening fee. Keep the file number for all future steps.

3. Enrol in a driving school (new drivers only)

Choose an RTA-approved institute such as Emirates Driving Institute (EDI) or Dubai Driving Centre. Packages start around AED 5,000–7,000 for automatic transmission. You will receive a learner’s permit valid for six months.

4. Complete theory and practical lessons

Attend 8–12 theory classes, then pass the computer-based Highway Code exam. Yard and road training follows; expect 20–35 hours depending on your progress. Instructors record every session in the RTA portal.

5. Sit the final tests

Book yard and road tests via the RTA app. Yard test fee is AED 300; road test AED 400. You must bring your original learner’s permit and Emirates ID. Results appear instantly on-screen.

6. Pay and receive your licence

Once you pass, pay the licence issuance fee (AED 420 for 5 years or AED 620 for 10 years) plus knowledge test fee (AED 170). Collect the plastic card at the same centre or have it delivered by Emirates Post for AED 30.

Converting an existing foreign licence

Residents from 49 countries listed on the RTA reciprocity list can convert without tests. Simply book a medical, open a traffic file, pay AED 420 and collect the UAE licence the same day. Always verify your country’s status in the RTA app before travelling to the centre.

Common mistakes to avoid

Letting your foreign licence expire before conversion; some countries require a valid home licence for direct exchange.
Skipping the eye test—RTA will reject incomplete medical files and you lose your appointment slot.
Choosing the wrong transmission type during training; switching from manual to automatic later requires extra paid lessons.
Forgetting to link your traffic file to your Emirates ID, which blocks test bookings.

Cost comparison: new vs conversion

Item	New driver (AED)	Conversion (AED)
Medical + eye test	300–500	300–500
Traffic file	200	200
Training & tests	5,000–7,000	0
Licence (5 yr)	420	420
Total estimate	5,920–8,120	920–1,120

Renewing or replacing your licence

Renew online via RTA app 30 days before expiry. Fee is AED 420 for five years. If lost, report via the app immediately; replacement costs AED 200 and requires a police report from any GDRFA station. Address changes must be updated within 10 days to avoid fines.

Key takeaway

Start with the medical fitness test and open your traffic file in the RTA app; everything else flows from there. Budget AED 1,000 for conversions and AED 6,000-plus for new drivers, and always double-check the latest reciprocity list before booking tests. Safe driving!