Driver's License in the UAE
Get a UAE driving licence, or exchange or convert your foreign one.
Starting from
AED 870
Foreign licence exchange estimate
- Typical timeline
- 1 week to 2 months
- Best for
- Residents who need a UAE licence
- Route
- Exchange or new licence
- Foreign licence exchange estimate
- From AED 870
About Driver's License in the UAE
Depending on your nationality and licence, you may exchange a foreign licence or need to take lessons and tests.
We explain your route, handle the paperwork and help you book the required steps.
Right route
We check whether you can exchange.
Paperwork done
Eye test, file opening and applications.
Fewer delays
Documents checked before you go.
At a glance
The numbers that matter
Route
Exchange or new
Your existing licence and nationality determine the applicable route.
Assessment
Eligibility checked
We identify whether your foreign licence may be exchanged.
Testing
If required
Applicants following the new-licence route may need training and tests.
Authority
RTA
Dubai driving licence procedures are handled through the applicable RTA channels.
Is this right for you?
Who is this for?
UAE residents applying for a first driving licence
Foreign licence holders eligible for exchange
Residents transferring to Dubai
Drivers requiring licence renewal or related support
Getting a UAE driving licence
The process depends on whether the applicant qualifies to exchange an existing foreign driving licence or needs to complete the standard training and testing route.
Requirements can differ according to nationality, existing licence and applicant circumstances.
Licence exchange
Certain foreign licences may qualify for direct exchange subject to the applicable RTA rules.
If an exchange is not available, the applicant follows the required driving school, training and testing process.
Before you start
Requirements & eligibility
Typical documents
- Passport
- UAE residence visa
- Emirates ID
- Existing driving licence where applicable
- Eye test result
What is included
- Eligibility check
- Eye test and file opening
- Driving school coordination
- Licence application
- Translation if needed
Documents you will need
Tick what you already have and we will help with the rest.
How it works, step by step
4 clear steps, and we handle each one. You always know where your file stands.
- 1
Check
Exchange or learn from scratch.
- 2
Prepare
Documents and eye test.
- 3
Train and test
If required, lessons and tests.
- 4
Licence
Receive your UAE licence.
Important to know
Before you proceed
Exchange eligibility varies
Not every foreign driving licence qualifies for direct exchange.
Training may be required
Applicants who cannot exchange their licence may need lessons and practical/theory tests.
Fees depend on the route
Government, testing, training and licence fees vary depending on the applicant's circumstances.
Questions, answered
Can't find what you need? Message us and a consultant will reply.
Ask on WhatsAppSome countries' licences can be exchanged. Tell us where yours was issued and we check.
Related services
Ready to start with Driver's License in the UAE?
Tell us about your situation. A consultant will confirm what you need, the cost and the timeline.
Brightlink is an independent private consultancy and is not a government authority. Prices and rules can change.
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