If you're a new resident of Dubai and already possess a driving license from your home country, the idea of having to apply for a new driving permit in your new home can seem daunting. The process of fulfilling requirements and undergoing both theoretical and practical tests is already stressful and time-consuming. Imagine the additional frustration of having to repeat this process. However, there's good news: you might be eligible for a direct license exchange without undergoing any of these steps.
To determine if you qualify to convert your existing driving license, here's a comprehensive guide: Requirements include presenting your Emirates ID, original driving license, a legal Arabic translation of your license, a no objection certificate (NOC) from your sponsor, two passport-sized pictures, a completed application form, and a valid eye test result from an RTA-accredited eye test center. Application can be made through the RTA website using your Emirates ID, passport details, or traffic file number, or via your UAE Pass.
On the homepage, select 'Apply for a New Driving Licence or a New Category Based on Exchanging Licence'. Enter your updated phone number, verify your identity with the OTP sent to your phone, specify the country where your license was issued, input your license details, select the license category, attach a copy of your license, submit the application, and pay the required fees using your debit or credit card. After submission, you'll receive a reference number to track your application status. Alternatively, you can visit any RTA customer happiness center, which are open Monday to Thursday from 8am to 7.30pm and Friday from 8am to 12pm.
For Singaporean residents, apply through accredited driving institutes, submit required documents, open a traffic file if it's your first application, book an appointment for the knowledge test, and settle the required fees at the center. Once you pass the Knowledge test, your license will be printed and handed to you.
Service fees for converting your license to a UAE permit include Dh200 to open your file with RTA, Dh600 for the issuance of the new Dubai license, Dh50 for the traffic manual, and Dh20 or more for 'Knowledge and Innovation' fees. For Singaporean residents, fees include Dh200 for opening a file with RTA, Dh100 for a learning application, Dh50 for the traffic handbook, Dh400 for the knowledge test, Dh300 for the issuance of the driving license, and Dh20 or more for 'Knowledge and Innovation' fees.
To claim your license, present your original driving license and Emirates ID at any RTA customer happiness center. If you have an Apple device, you can receive your electronic license from the Apple Wallet through the RTA Dubai App. Your new license will be valid for two years if you're 21 years old and older, and for one year if you're under 21. Eligibility for a direct license exchange is limited to those whose licenses were issued in Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, UK, or US.
