Can I drive in Dubai with my foreign licence?

Tourists can drive for up to six months with a valid home licence plus an IDP. Residents must obtain a UAE licence.

How long does the theory test take?

The computer test lasts 20 minutes; results appear immediately on screen.

Do I need to attend a driving school?

Yes. At least 8 lessons from an RTA-approved school are mandatory for foreign licence holders.

What if I fail the road test?

You can rebook after 7 days. Most candidates pass on their second or third attempt.

Is the licence valid across all emirates?

Yes. An RTA-issued UAE licence is valid in all seven emirates and recognised internationally.

How to Apply for UAE Driving License 2026

Quick answer

Apply through the RTA app or website, book an eye test plus theory and road tests, then pay AED 820–1,200 depending on your nationality and license type. Processing usually takes 1–2 weeks.

Who needs a UAE driving licence?

Anyone planning to drive in the Emirates for more than six months must convert or obtain a UAE licence. Tourists can drive on an International Driving Permit (IDP) plus their home licence for up to six months, but residents need the local one.

Documents you must prepare

Valid passport copy
Emirates ID (or visa copy if ID is pending)
Original home-country licence plus translation if required
Passport-size photos (white background)
Medical fitness certificate from an approved RTA centre

Step-by-step application process

Step 1: Eye test & medical

Book an eye test at any RTA-accredited optician. Cost is AED 100. If you wear glasses, bring them. You also need a medical fitness test at an RTA-approved centre (AED 300–400) to rule out serious health issues.

Step 2: Create or log into your RTA account

Download the RTA Dubai app or visit rta.ae. Register with Emirates ID or passport, then select “Driving Licence Services.” Choose “New Licence” or “Convert Foreign Licence.”

Step 3: Book theory test

Pay the theory-test fee (AED 300) and select a slot. Study the official handbook on the app. The test has 35 questions; you need 17 correct. English, Arabic, and several other languages are available.

Step 4: Attend theory test

Arrive 30 minutes early at the chosen RTA centre. Bring Emirates ID and confirmation. Results are instant. If you pass, proceed to the next step; if you fail, you can rebook after 7 days.

Step 5: Practical driving lessons

Foreign licence holders need a minimum of 8 hours; new drivers need 20–30 hours. Lessons cost AED 80–120 each. Book via the app or your driving school.

Step 6: Road test

Pay AED 300 for the test. You must use a dual-control car from an approved school. The examiner checks parking, lane discipline, and highway merging. Pass on the first try and you receive a digital licence immediately.

Common mistakes expats make

Skipping the medical test and arriving unprepared
Using an expired home licence (must be valid for at least 6 months)
Choosing the wrong licence type (automatic vs manual)
Forgetting to carry the printed eye-test receipt

Costs you should budget for in 2026

Eye test	AED 100
Medical fitness	AED 300–400
Theory test	AED 300
8 lessons (minimum)	AED 640–960
Road test	AED 300
Licence issuance (5 years)	AED 620

Total typical range: AED 820–1,900. Verify current fee with RTA before booking.

Converting a foreign licence

Residents from countries on the RTA conversion list (UK, Germany, Australia, Canada, etc.) can skip the theory and practical tests. Just submit documents and pay AED 820. All other nationalities must sit both tests.

Tips to pass first time

Study the official RTA handbook on the app, not third-party PDFs.
Take lessons during low-traffic hours (10 am–2 pm).
Practice parking in the exact test yard the day before.
Keep both hands visible on the wheel and check mirrors every 10 seconds.

Renewing or replacing later

Your licence is valid for 5 or 10 years. Renew online via the RTA app 30 days before expiry. Lost licence replacement costs AED 350 and takes 24 hours.

Key takeaway

Start with the eye and medical tests, book everything through the official RTA app, and budget AED 1,200–1,900 for a smooth first-time application. Follow the steps above and you’ll be driving legally in the UAE within two weeks.