If you’re a new resident in Dubai with a driving license from your home country, you might be concerned about the hassle of applying for a new driving permit.
Fortunately, you may be eligible for a direct license exchange, saving you from the stress of redoing all theoretical and practical tests. Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the process:
Requirements
To convert your foreign driving license to a UAE license, you’ll need to present:
- Emirates ID
- Original driving license
- Legal Arabic translation of your driving license
- No objection certificate (NOC) from your sponsor
- Two passport-sized photos
- Completed application form
- Valid eye test result from an RTA-accredited center
How to Apply
You can apply through the RTA website or visit an RTA customer happiness center. Here’s how:
Online Application:
- Visit the RTA website and log in using your Emirates ID, passport details, or traffic file number.
- Click on ‘Apply for a New Driving Licence or a New Category Based on Exchanging Licence.’
- Verify your phone number via OTP.
- Enter your driving license details and upload the required documents.
- Pay the necessary fees using a debit or credit card.
In-Person Application:
- Visit an RTA customer happiness center.
- Submit the required documents.
- Request to add the required category to your driving license.
- Settle the fees.
For Singaporean Residents:
- Submit the required documents at an accredited driving institute.
- Open a traffic file if it’s your first application.
- Book and pass the knowledge test.
- Pay the fees at the center.
Service Fees
- Dh200 to open an RTA file
- Dh600 for the new Dubai license
- Dh50 for the traffic manual
- Dh20 or more for ‘Knowledge and Innovation’ fees
Additional Fees for Singaporean Residents:
- Dh100 for a learning application
- Dh400 for the knowledge test
- Dh300 for license issuance
How to Claim Your License
Once your application is approved, present your original driving license and Emirates ID at any RTA customer happiness center. Your new license will be printed and handed to you. If you have an Apple device, you can add the electronic license to your Apple Wallet through the RTA Dubai App.
Validity
The new license will be valid for two years if you’re 21 or older, and one year if you’re under 21.
Eligibility
You can directly exchange your license if it was issued from one of these countries:
- Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, UK, US
By following these steps, you can seamlessly convert your foreign driving license to a UAE license, allowing you to hit the roads of Dubai without hassle.
