UAE Driving License — Convert or Apply Fresh (2025)
Convert your home country driving license if you are from an approved list of 36+ countries, or open a traffic file and take driving classes/tests if not. Dubai residents use RTA, other emirates use MOI.
Who can convert their license directly?
If you hold a valid driving license from one of the following countries, you can convert it to a UAE license without taking any tests or classes:
- GCC Countries: Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar
- Europe: UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Netherlands, etc.
- North America & Oceania: USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
- Asia & Africa: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, China, South Africa
Note: You must be a citizen of the country that issued the license to convert it directly. Translations may be required for non-English/Arabic licenses.
Steps to Convert an Eligible License
Get an eye test
Visit an approved optician (like Yateem or Magrabi) for a digital eye test linked to the RTA/MOI system.
Gather documents
Bring your original home country license, Emirates ID, and passport.
Visit Customer Happiness Center
Go to an RTA center (Dubai) or Traffic Department (other emirates).
Pay the fees
Conversion typically costs around AED 400 - 870 depending on the emirate.
Receive your license
Your new UAE driving license will be printed and handed to you in minutes.
Steps for a Fresh License (Not Eligible for Conversion)
Open a traffic file
Register with an approved driving institute (e.g., Emirates Driving Institute, Galadari).
Eye test & theory classes
Pass an eye test and attend 8 mandatory theory lectures.
Theory test
Pass the RTA/MOI computerized theory knowledge test.
Practical training classes
Complete 10, 15, or 20 hours of practical driving classes depending on your prior experience.
Internal and Parking tests
Pass the driving school’s internal assessment and the official yard/parking test.
Final Road Test
Pass the final on-road assessment with a police examiner to get your license.
Costs for a fresh license
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| File opening & theory | AED 1,500 - 2,000 |
| Practical classes (20 hours) | AED 2,500 - 3,500 |
| Test fees & issuance | AED 1,000 - 1,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | AED 5,000 - 7,000+ |
Opens official government website. GovtClear is not affiliated.