Dubai Driving License: Everything You Need to Know

Dubai—a global, sophisticated hub—has built its name in every aspect, i.e., economically, socially, politically, and even with efficient road infrastructure. Navigating Dubai's extensive road network requires acquiring a driver's license.

This guide is divided into several sections articulating the details of how to get driving license in Dubai, including procedure, eligibility criteria, costs, and rules.

An Overview of Dubai Driving License

Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai regulates the procedures and regulations for driving in Dubai. It is crucial to have a comprehensive knowledge of the Dubai Driving Licence process. It holds the rules for residents, expatriates, and individuals required to convert their existing licenses.

Dubai Driving License

How to Get Driving License in Dubai

Do you need a driver's license in Dubai to navigate your travels? Well! The process of obtaining a driving license is a systematic approach where each step requires proper knowledge for a trouble-free experience. Therefore, this blog post is a helpful resource to help you understand how to get started with driving in Dubai.

Eligibility Check: The individual must be 18 years old to apply for a driving license in Dubai. In addition, applicants' health tests should be passed as per the given criteria.
Select a Driving School: Choose an RTA-approved driving school to maximize your eligibility for further tests. Some famous driving institutes in Dubai include the Dubai Driving Center, Emirates Driving Institute, Galadari Motor Driving Centre, and many more.
Open a Traffic File: You are required to open a traffic file after enrolment into an RTA-approved driving institute.
Eye Test: One must conduct an eye test from a known optical center.

1. Documents Required for Driving License Application Process

No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor (if applicable)
Passport-sized photos
Emirates ID copy
The original Emirates ID card
Passport Copy
Residence Visa Copy
Eye Test Report

2. Acquisition of Driving License: A Series of Training and Tests

Compulsory Hours of Training

Dubai RTA has set various limits of training hours for people with different driving experiences. However, training is compulsory whether you are a beginner or an experienced driver.

Drivers with experience over 5 years will be given 10 hours of training; 15 hours of training is mandatory for drivers with 2-5 years of experience, while beginners are required to attain 20 hours of training.

Health Fitness Test

To ensure the health competency of drivers, Dubai has been following the medical standards of The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), considering UK criteria.

The procurement of Dubai license standards adheres to standardized European Evaluations to declare the competency level of drivers for operating heavy automobiles.

Moreover, certain medical centers conduct tests for drivers, which are typically required for the heavy vehicle category. The applicant passes various screening tests to indicate any general health risks, which include diabetes, eyesight, and blood pressure.

Theory Test

If you want to become a pro driver in Dubai, UAE, you are required to pass the RTA Dubai Theoretical Knowledge Test. This test encompasses 40 queries, wrapping 10 separate topics. In addition, 300+ practice questions give you an edge in the test; however, thorough preparation is required.

Furthermore, the Theory Test will test your driving strategies and knowledge of detailed UAE traffic laws and regulations. The test will also encourage applicants to confront accidental road hazards and grave situations while driving.

Practical Training

After passing the Theory Test, you are ready to level onto the next step, i.e., Practical Training. Several test classes are provided in Practical Training that are essential before advancing to the road test.

Moreover, the practical training sessions inculcate manual practice and live simulation of the road test. This step prepares you rigorously and efficiently for the final test that leads you to acquire a driving license.

Nonetheless, in case of test failure, the applicant is required to take a specified number of classes from practical training sessions before appearing for the re-assessment.

Parking Test (Yard Test)

The parking test will be taken at the related driving school. In this step, individuals will be assessed using the various parking tests including angle parking, garage parking, parallel parking, slop and emergency brake test.

All these test requires is attention, so do not get confused. You will spend a lot of time practicing parking during your driving lessons.

RTA Road Test

The last step to obtaining your driving license is the Road Test. This test is considered a little more critical and intricate than all the other steps. In the RTA Road Test, you are allowed to demonstrate your competency to the examiner. This assessment will feature your potential and your way of driving in Dubai.

Be Careful! Because the examiner will scrutinize the measures you consider when driving. Your test begins with the examiner as soon as you step into the car.

The examiner observes every minute detail considered while driving, from safe closure of the car door, seat adjustments, adjusting mirrors, and using seat belts to looking for lights, wipers, and horns and switching the engine on.

In addition to the above-mentioned measures, the examiner will also inspect whether you are using the signals and mirrors at required intervals, switching lanes smoothly, and making turns appropriately.

Moreover, your consideration towards safe distances and other precautionary measures will also be assessed by the examiner.

Ta-da! You have accomplished your goal of acquiring a Dubai Driving License.

RTA Road Test

Driving License Cost in Dubai

Numerous factors impact car license costs in Dubai, such as the type of car you intend to drive, the number of required lessons, and the driving institute you select.

Based on these factors, the cost of a driving license in Dubai may vary. However, on average, the total cost of obtaining a driving license in Dubai ranges between AED 4,500 and AED 7,000 for a less heavy vehicle license.

1. Breakdown of Dubai Driving License Fees

Taking an approx overview of the total cost of obtaining a driving license in Dubai, the guide has roughly estimated the fees by breaking it down into various components;

AED 200 is required for the Registration Fee.
AED 170 is required for the Eye Test Fee.
AED 200 is required for the Theory Test Fee Fee.
AED 300 is required for the Practical Test Fee.
AED 100 is required for a Learning Permit.

The course fee requires you to pay between AED 2,000 and AED 5,000 and differs according to the number of lessons taken and the driving school chosen.

2. Manual Driving License Dubai Cost

The cost slightly differs if you choose a manual-driven vehicle. Manual driving lessons are comparatively cheaper than automated ones. However, the price also depends upon the driving school.

3. Dubai Driving License Renewal Cost

The Dubai Driving license remains valid for 2 years and requires renewal subsequently. The renewal cost is around AED 120 for individuals under 21 years of age, and AED 320 for individuals above 21 years of age. After renewal, the driving license remains valid for over 10 years.

Best Driving Schools in Dubai

Here is the list of top 4 driving institutes in Dubai that are offering world-class driving courses at a favorable fee structure.

1. Galadari Motor Driving Center

GMDC is a renowned driving center acclaimed for its reliable and successful services. This driving school is certified by RTA and encompasses 500+ driving experts. Galadari Motor Driving Center aims to boost driving confidence among its students with a fleet of vehicles and modern facilities.

Average Cost of Driving Lessons: The average fees at GMDC can start from AED 2,200.
Contact Information: Call at +971 600595956 or email at [email protected] for more queries.

2. Emirates Driving Institute

Emirate Driving Institute, one of the largest driving schools operating in Dubai since 1991, offers Driver License Acquisition Training. EDI has over 500 driving lesson professionals who are qualified to provide lessons that meet contemporary demands.

Average Cost of Driving Lessons: The average fees at EDI for manual gear lessons can cost around AED 4,948, whereas automatic gear lessons are available at AED 8,600.
Contact Information: Call at +971 42631100 for any queries.

3. Excellence Driving Center

Excellence Driving Center is another top-tier driving school in Dubai. With lessons from highly qualified instructors and the usage of modern facilities, Excellence Driving Center ensures that you master your driving skills.

Average Cost of Driving Lessons: The average fee at Excellence Driving Center is around AED 4,913.
Contact Information: Call +971 600515154 for any queries.

4. Dubai Driving Center

Making your way to safe driving, Dubai Driving Center is the most standardized driving institute with world-class instructors. This driving institute aims to deliver top-notch driving courses, ensuring your acquisition of an RTA-certified driving license.

Average Cost of Driving Lessons: The average fee at Dubai Driving Center is around AED 4,760.
Contact Information: Call +971 43455855 or email [email protected] for any queries.

UAE Driving Test

The UAE driving test is comprehensive and inculcates both practical and theoretical aspects. The theory assessment is taken via touch-screen computer to assess the applicant's capability of considering road signs, precautionary measures, and driving etiquette.

Contrarily, in the practical test, you will be driving on the road, and the examiner will assess your driving skills and observe every titchy detail.

Tip for Passing Dubai Driving Test

Tips for Passing the Dubai Driving Test

Passing a driving test in Dubai is as strenuous as the intricate infrastructure of Dubai. Hence, the following tips will guide you in ensuring success in acquiring your driver's license in Dubai.

Study the RTA Handbook: Learn as much as you can about road signs and driving regulations in Dubai.
Ensure Regular Practice: Regularly practice in different conditions to maximize the chances of passing the driving test. Also, completing practical lessons will help you get through the process smoothly and efficiently.
Remain Calm and Engrossed:Staying calm during the test will certainly lead you to success. Moreover, following the instructor's directions carefully is crucial to avoid any mishaps during practical tests.
Look over Basics: It is essential to check basic things before starting a drive. Keep in mind that your goal is to attain a driving license, which can only be acquired if you make the right impression on your examiner. This can be done by adjusting the seat and mirror as soon as you are inside the car and checking gears and hand brakes to mitigate any possible damage.
Drive Confidently: Look professional while going to the RTA driving license center and drive confidently within a specified speed limit. Furthermore, keeping a safe distance from other vehicles is a considerable and encouraging act of driving.

Driving Rules in Dubai

Dubai is a disciplined and progressive city that doesn't compromise on violating traffic rules. Therefore, the city follows a strict policy to ensure all road users adhere to driving rules and regulations.

If you want to live a safe and luxurious life in Dubai, you need to acknowledge the driving rules in Dubai. This is necessary to make your driving experience smooth and refrain from penalties.

Speed Limit: Speed limit differs by location and road type; therefore, strict adherence is necessary to ensure a smooth driving experience in Dubai. Typically, urban areas follow a speed limit of 40-60 km/hr and 100-120 km/hr on highways.
Lane Order: Do not unnecessarily change your lane and use indicators before changing lanes.
Seat Belts: Dubai ensures an effective driving style by mandating seat belts for all passengers.
Traffic Signals: Adhere to all the traffic signs and signals carefully.
Prohibition of Mobile Phone Usage: Using a mobile while driving is not allowed and is strictly prohibited in Dubai unless you are using a hands-free system.

Closing In

In conclusion, drivers can be charged with hefty fines, black points on driving licenses, and vehicle impoundment if traffic and driving rules are not followed properly.

Furthermore, obtaining a driving license in Dubai involves a handful of tasks and training to ensure competence and road safety among drivers.

Nonetheless, the process can be smoothly accomplished by acknowledging the driving license cost in Dubai, the mandatory procedures, and the particular driving rules. This guide carries all the essential information you need to know about driving license acquisition in Dubai.

Moreover, the comprehensive guide will help you understand and navigate your journey through Dubai driving license processing. Remember to prioritize safety on the roads and stay updated with any changes in driving regulations.

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