If you are planning to stay in Dubai for a more extended period or have recently moved to the UAE, one of the most important things you would be required to do is convert your driving license into a UAE driving license. It is easy; however, you must fulfil some criteria to get this license. Regardless of the reason you are moving for work, studies, or personal reasons, a converted driving license in Dubai will allow you to drive lawfully within the emirate.
At 360 Global Relocations, we understand that relocation can be a stressful process, and we are here to help you with this critical step, ensuring you navigate the complexities of Converting driving license in Dubai without any hassle.
Who Can Convert Their Driving License in Dubai, UAE?
The UAE allows expatriates to convert their foreign driving licenses into local UAE driving licenses. However, it’s not everyone’s cup of coffee. To get a driving license conversion in Dubai, you will be eligible under the following criteria:
- Residency Status: You must be a resident of the UAE with a valid Emirates ID and residence visa.
- Driving License Validity: Your foreign driving license should not be expired, and it is valid.
- Your Home Country’s Eligibility: It depends upon your nationality if you can apply for a conversion of your driving license without taking any driving test in Dubai.
- Age: You should be at least 18 to be eligible for a driving license in Dubai.
If you meet these conditions, you may continue converting your foreign driving license to a UAE one.
Countries Whose Nationals Can Convert Driving License in Dubai
Dubai has an agreement with some countries, and the nationals of those countries can convert their driving license directly without having to undergo a driving test. Such countries are called “reciprocity” countries, and the residents of these countries can directly convert their license to a UAE license.
Some of the countries eligible for direct conversion of driving license are:
- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries: One can quickly transfer their license from the respective GCC countries like Saudi, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and the UAE.
- European Union (EU) Countries: The UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc, whose nationals can do the same transfer without undergoing the test.
- Other Selected Countries: Australia, Canada, the United States, and several other countries have agreements in place that make the conversion process more manageable.
However, if your country is not on this list, you may still be able to convert your license, but you will likely need to undergo a driving test as part of the conversion process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Convert Your Driving License in Dubai
The process of converting your foreign driving license into a UAE driving license is quite simple. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the procedure:
1. Collect the Necessary Documents
Before starting the conversion process, ensure that you have all the necessary documents, including:
- Valid foreign driving license (original and a copy).
- Valid residence visa.
- Valid Emirates ID.
- Passport-size photographs (usually 2-4 photos).
- A medical certificate from an authorized health center (eye and general fitness).
- Evidence of legal residency in the UAE.
2. Report to the RTA
The RTA issues and converts driving licenses in Dubai. You will have to visit an RTA center to initiate the process. Most RTA centers provide the availability to access services online. It is advisable to check if you can process your documents online before going physically.
3. Submit Your Application
Once you’ve gathered all the required documents, submit your application for driving license conversion to the RTA. You’ll need to fill out the relevant forms and provide the supporting documents for verification.
4. Eye Test
Be tested by an authorized medical center for an eye test. The eye test tests your eyes to ensure you meet the minimum visual acuity required to drive safely. Most RTA-approved centers can conduct this test on the spot.
5. Pay the Fees
You must pay applicable conversion fees once your application and documents are submitted. The different fees will depend on your nationality, the type of license, and any additional services, such as medical certificates or translations.
6. Collect Your License
The driving license will be processed upon successful completion of all required procedures and after payment. Should you qualify for direct conversion, your UAE driving license will be issued to you without taking the driving test. The processing would take approximately 1-2 weeks. When a test has to be conducted, the process might be longer.
Fees and Costs for Driving License Conversion Cost in Dubai
The cost factor can determine the cost of converting a foreign driving license in Dubai to consider, such as the country, fees associated with the medical test, and the license type. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses you can expect:
- Conversion Fee: The basic fee to convert your foreign driving license to UAE varies according to nationality, between AED 200 and AED 700.
- Eye Test Fee: AED 100. It is provided directly to the medical center, where you go for tests.
- Translation Charges: If you hold an international driving license not in English or Arabic, you would require that any authorized translator in UAE translate it. They usually charge for the translation service, priced between AED 50 and AED 150.
- Medical Certificate Fee: The medical certificate for the vision test costs around AED 100 to AED 200.
- Driving Test Fee: If you need to take a driving test, additional fees for the road test will apply, typically ranging from AED 300 to AED 600.
Total Estimated Cost
The total cost of converting your driving license in Dubai can range from AED 500 to AED 1,500, depending on your circumstances.
Timeline to get your Dubai Driving License Conversion
The timeframe of driving license conversion into a UAE driving license would differ based on one’s nationality, completion of medical tests, and availability of appointments at RTA.
Conversion from the foreign license would be fast, which might take weeks for direct conversion or countries having reciprocity agreements.
In non-reciprocal countries, you will likely need to do a driving test that will take weeks. This usually involves booking a driving test and passing the road test.
It always pays to have a head start in the process so there will be minimal delay in processing your driving license.
Tips in the Conversion of Driving License
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free driving license conversion, consider the following tips:
- Ensure Document Accuracy: Double-check all your documents before submitting them to avoid delays.
- Take the Eye Test Early: Get your eye test completed as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute complications.
- Know the Rules for Your Country: Check if your country has a reciprocal agreement with the UAE to avoid unnecessary tests.
- Fill out All the Forms before Visiting RTA: Prepare all the documents and then visit the office.
- Check the Expired Documents: Ensure that all your documents are valid, like your passport, visa, and driving license, before applying for a new license.
Conclusion
It is easy to convert your driving license to a UAE one if you take the proper steps and provide all the necessary documentation. Once this process is complete, you can drive legally in Dubai and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of having a local driving license.
Here, at 360 Global Relocations, we understand how a new country takes many steps before the settlement process becomes successful. Hence, we will assist you at each step during your relocation. This ranges from obtaining your driving license, finding accommodation, and familiarizing yourself with local law. We will provide all this professional help in person.
Contact us today to learn how we can make the relocation process smooth and efficient for you.
FAQs
- Is my driving license convertible in Dubai?
Yes, if you’re a Dubai resident with eligibility, you can convert your foreign driving license to a UAE driving license.
- How do you transfer a license to the UAE?
You go to the RTA and submit the needed documents, then proceed with an eye test and a fee. You might also have to take the driving test based on your nationality.
- What is the unlimited license in Dubai?
The price for an unlimited driving license in Dubai is estimated at AED 1,000 to AED 1,200 based on the exact needs.
- How much does the driver’s license cost in Dubai?
Costs vary from AED 500 to AED 1,500; some also depend on the person’s nationality and a medical test for most applicants. It takes one or more tests depending on nationality.
- How many tests are in a Dubai driving license?
The number of tests you must take in Dubai varies depending on your nationality. Some nationalities only require an eye test, while others must pass a theory and a road test.