How To Get a Driving License in The UAE As a Foreigner

driving license in the UAE

Getting a driving license in the UAE as a foreign resident can be a daunting process, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right documents and knowledge of the process, anyone can obtain a Driving License and start exploring the UAE.

In this blog post, we’ll go through the steps for getting a Driving License in the UAE for foreign residents.

The Process of Getting a Driving License in the UAE

For foreign residents living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), obtaining a driving license is a relatively easy process. In order to be eligible, applicants must have an Emirates ID, valid residency visa and valid passport.

Furthermore, Which Countries Driving License Can Be Exchanged In UAE?

Foreign nationals from certain countries can exchange their existing driving license for a UAE equivalent. These countries include:

  • Germany,
  • Austria,
  • Switzerland,
  • Belgium,
  • France,
  • Netherlands,
  • Italy,
  • Spain,
  • Sweden,
  • Norway,
  • Finland,
  • Denmark,
  • South Africa,
  • Bahrain and

Once these documents are prepared, the applicant should visit one of the specialized driving institutes located in all seven emirates in the UAE. During their visit to the institute, the applicant will need to pay the applicable fee and then complete the necessary formalities.

The next step is to attend a series of lectures conducted by certified trainers and then pass the theory test with a minimum score of 70%.

Upon passing the theory test, the applicant will be required to take practical driving classes in order to further develop their driving skills. After completing these classes and passing a final practical driving exam with a score of 70%. The applicant will be issued with a driving license.

Applicants must ensure that all steps in the process are completed within one year of filing for the application. Failure to do so will result in the cancellation of the application and require the applicant to restart the entire process.

The Documents Required for Getting a Driving License in the UAE

If you are a foreign resident in the UAE and you want to get a driving license. Then you must provide certain documents before you can apply. You must have your:

  • Valid passport,
  • Residence visa,
  • Recent passport-sized photograph,
  • Original Emirates ID card, and
  • Original driving license from your home country or any other GCC country.

If you have a valid driving license from certain countries (like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia and some others) then you can exchange it for a UAE driving license.

In addition to these documents, you may also need to pass an eye test and submit a no-objection letter from your sponsor if you are on a sponsored residence visa. Make sure to check with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for more specific details about the requirements.

The Fees Involved in Getting a Driving License in the UAE

Depending on the type of driving license you are applying for, there are several fees that you need to consider. If you’re applying for a UAE driving license and are an ex-pat, the fee can range from AED 200-1000. If you’re an Emirati citizen, the fee is much lower, ranging from AED 100-600.

For those who already have a license from certain countries, you can exchange it for a UAE license for free. Countries such as:

  • Australia,
  • Austria,
  • Bahrain,
  • Belgium,
  • Canada,
  • Denmark,
  • Finland,
  • France,
  • Germany,
  • Greece,
  • Ireland,
  • Italy,
  • Japan,
  • South Korea,
  • Kuwait,
  • Netherlands,
  • New Zealand,
  • Norway,
  • Oman,
  • Poland,
  • Portugal,
  • Qatar,
  • Romania,
  • Saudi Arabia,
  • Spain,
  • Sweden,
  • Switzerland,
  • Turkey,
  • United Kingdom and T
  • The United States

have driving licenses that can be exchanged for a UAE license.

The Different Types of Driving Licenses Available in the UAE

Residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have a variety of driving license options to choose from. Depending on which country you’re from, you may be able to exchange your existing driving license for an UAE one. Those from Europe, Australia, the United States, Canada, South Africa, Singapore, New Zealand and some other countries can do so.

For those who cannot exchange their license, there are several different kinds of licenses available for them to obtain. The two main types are a light vehicle license and a heavy vehicle license.

A light vehicle license allows you to drive cars, vans and light trucks up to a certain weight. It’s issued in three categories:

  1. Manual transmission (for cars with manual transmission),
  2. Automatic transmission (for cars with automatic transmission) and
  3. Motorcycle license (for motorcycles).

To get a light vehicle license, you will need to pass a written test and practical test.

A heavy vehicle license is required to drive any vehicle heavier than a certain weight. This includes buses, trucks, trailers, tankers and tractors. You will need to pass both a written and practical test before being granted a heavy vehicle license.

In addition to the two main types of licenses, you can also obtain a temporary driver’s permit or a trailer license. A temporary driver’s permit allows you to drive for up to six months. And is often used for tourists who don’t plan to stay in the UAE for too long.

A trailer license allows you to tow trailers and is generally only issued to those who already have a light or heavy vehicle license.

Getting a driving license in the UAE can be a complex process. But with proper preparation and knowledge of the different types of licenses available. You can get the right one for your needs.

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