More and more expats want to drive their own cars in Dubai. This is understandable, as public transport is not yet so well developed and cabs or Uber are too expensive for many people in the long term. But how do you get a driver's license in the UAE and how expensive is it?
The answers to these questions and everything else about driving licenses in the UAE in this article.
Do you even need a local driver's license?
This may come as a surprise to many, but you need a local driver's license, even if the license from numerous EU countries such as Germany and Austria is valid internationally. However, this only applies to residents, i.e. all those who have an Emirates VISA.
Tourists can easily rent cars with a driver's license from their home country.
Driver's license rewriting
For all those who already have a driver's license, it can be easily transferred at a driver's license office. The only thing that is checked again is your eyesight by means of a visual acuity test, as is the case at the ophthalmologist. This only takes 5 minutes and costs around AED 800.
It is best to google for the nearest RTA office that is responsible for driver's licenses. Here is an example of a competent authority near the airport: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rK8em7Ko76hGbM9R7.
Renewal
The driver's license must be renewed every two years. This only costs around AED 300 and is also done at an RTA office for driving license approval. You also have to take a short eye test when renewing your license.
Driving license school
However, if you don't have a driver's license, you have to get one at a driving school in Dubai. There are numerous providers here, but it is not advisable to choose the cheapest one. There are often reports of smaller scams where you initially pay less, but ultimately have to take the test more often and pay more for it.
A well-rated school with several locations is the Excellence Driving School in Dubai. It offers various packages costing around AED 4,000 - 8,000, depending on the number of lessons you book or need.
Costs
As described above, the costs for the driver's license in Dubai can be broken down as follows:
- 800 AED Rewrite
- 300 AED Renew
- 4,000-8,000 AED for school & test
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about driving licenses in Dubai and the UAE.
How long is the driver's license valid for?
The driver's license in Dubai is generally valid for 2 years. After that, it must be renewed. The process only takes a few minutes and costs a small fee.
Do I have to surrender my driver's license from AT / DE?
No. Even if the rumor is circulating, you do not have to surrender your previous driver's license from your home country.
Is the driver's license internationally recognized?
Yes, the driver's license is recognized worldwide.
Summary
If you want to drive in Dubai, you need a local driver's license. If you already have a valid international driver's license from another country, you can have it reissued for a fee (AED 800) and a short eye test. The renewal takes place every 2 years and costs around AED 300. For those who need to get a driver's license first, they should go to a good local school and usually have to expect costs of AED 4,000-8,000.
