Gaining a driving license in Abu Dhabi is a coveted achievement, recognized globally for its validity and prestige. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the process, offering clear, step-by-step instructions for both local residents and international applicants.
Whether you’re from one of the 32 approved countries like the US, UK, or China, or from non-approved nations such as Pakistan or India, this article provides tailored advice to navigate the varied requirements.
From understanding the minimum age prerequisites for different vehicle categories to the detailed procedures for document submission and practical training, we cover all essential aspects to help you acquire your Abu Dhabi driving license with ease.
People are crazy about getting an Abu Dhabi driving license because a driving license is valid across the world and one can use it anywhere around the globe. Here on this page, we will share complete guidance about how to get an Abu Dhabi driving license. There are different methods to get a UAE driving license but here we share a simple and easiest way to get a driving license.
The first step for getting a driving license in Abu Dhabi, one should must has to be under the required age for their respective vehicle driving license.
Minimum Age Requirements for different vehicles driving license in Abu Dhabi.
Individual customers, citizens and residents, who are above the legal age and medically fit, are eligible to get a driving learning permit and apply for a new driving licence. The minimum age requirement to obtain a driving license depends on the vehicle, for which you are obtaining the licence. The minimum age requirement is as follows:
- 17 years for motorcycles and for vehicles for people with special needs
- 18 years for cars and light vehicles
- 20 years for heavy vehicles and tractors
- 21 years for buses.
Most importantly, people from 32 approved countries, including the US, UK, Germany, France, New Zealand, Japan, Australia, and China, are automatically qualified for UAE’s driving license.
However, non-approved countries like Pakistan, India, and the Philippines, must complete the required process.
Required documents and procedures
Documents required to open a traffic file include:
- Copy of passport and residence visa page
- Copy and original emirates ID card
- 2 photographs
- Eye test report
- No objection letter from the sponsor (if required by the related traffic department).
Procedures followed to learn car driving include:
- Opening a traffic file in one of the registered driving centers in the related emirate
- Conducting an eye test at any center approved by the traffic department
- Completing all required driving classes
- Passing all tests set by the related traffic department
- Obtaining a driving license from the traffic authority.
eServices:
- Apply for a Light vehicle driving licence– Ministry of Interior
- Apply for a driving licence in Dubai– RTA Dubai
Renewal of driving licence
Driving licences are renewable for 10 years for UAE and GCCC citizens and 5 years for residents. Renewal of driving licences is available online in most of the emirates. To renew your driving licence, you must settle all your traffic fines. A fine of 10 AED per month will be levied on customers who delay the renewal of their driving licence for more than one month.
How to Apply for a new Driving license through the mobile app
First-time driving license applicants must complete the following steps:
- Take an eye test at either Yateem or Al Jaber opticians.
- Upload a copy of their Emirates ID and the eye test report on the Tamm app.
- Pay AED 200 ($54) to a customer service executive at Tamm.
- Install the UAE Pass app.
- Wait for approval, after which they’ll be asked to go to Emirates Driving Company.
The validity of a driving license depends on the driver’s age and status:
- For new drivers or those under 21, the license is initially valid for two years.
- After renewal, the license is valid for 5 years for ex-pats and 10 years for UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals.
Driving Classes for New Applicants
To obtain a valid Abu Dhabi driving license, new drivers and those unable to transfer their home country license must complete the following steps:
- Take theory and practical classes.
- Pass the driving test.
When opening a file with a driving school, the following documents are required:
- Copy of passport.
- Original Emirates ID plus a copy.
- Two photographs.
- Tamm app file number.
- Letter of no objection from the sponsor.
- If an applicant is 18 years old, their guardian’s documents and a no-objection letter are also required.
- Emirates Driving Company offers multiple options for obtaining a license. The total cost will be subject to a 5% VAT and a 1-time exam fee. Below is the table showing details of theory classes:
| Course Option | Course Duration | Number of Theory Classes | Fee (AED) |
| Regular | 4 days | 8 (2 per day) | 830 |
| Intensive | 2 days | 8 (4 per day) | 1,050 |
| VIP Silver | 1 day | 2 | 1,530 |
- Here’s the table showing details of practical classes:
| Course Option | Course Duration | Lessons per Day | Total Lessons | Fee (AED) |
| Beginner Level – No Experience | ||||
| Regular | 16 days | 1 | 16 | 2,750 |
| Intensive | 8 days | 2 | 16 | 2,905 |
| VIP Silver | 6 days | 3 | 18 | 3,705 |
| Intermediate Level – 1-5 Years of Experience | ||||
| Regular | 13 days | 1 | 13 | 2,145 |
| Intensive | 7 days | 2 | 14 | 2,345 |
| VIP Silver | 5 days | 3 | 15 | 3,145 |
| Upper-Intermediate Level – 5+ Years of Experience | ||||
| Regular | 10 days | 1 | 10 | 1,755 |
| Intensive | 5 days | 2 | 10 | 1,955 |
| VIP Silver | 4 days | 3 | 12 | 2,755 |
Applicants from non-approved countries are also given a golden chance to take written and practical tests before any classes. If the applicant passes these tests, they’ll be given a driving license. Upon failure, they must attend the classes.
Driving License Fee
A 1-year driving license costs AED 100 and is given to applicants under 21. For people aged over 21 years, the fee is AED 300 with 5-year validity.
How much does it cost to get a driving license in Abu Dhabi?
The cost of obtaining a driving license in Abu Dhabi varies depending on several factors, including the number of driving lessons required and the specific driving school chosen. On average, the total cost ranges from AED 5,500 to AED 7,000. This includes fees for eye tests, theory tests, practical driving lessons, and the final road test. Additional costs may arise if extra lessons are needed or if retests are required, making it essential for applicants to budget accordingly.
How can I get UAE driving licence in Abu Dhabi?
To obtain a UAE driving license in Abu Dhabi, applicants must be at least 18 years old. The process begins with registering at a recognized driving school. Applicants undergo an eye test and then attend mandatory theory classes, followed by a theory test. Upon passing, practical driving lessons commence, tailored to the driver’s experience level. Finally, after completing the required number of lessons, applicants take a practical road test. Successful candidates are then issued their UAE driving license.
How can I get UAE driving licence easily?
Getting a UAE driving license easily in Abu Dhabi involves thorough preparation and understanding of the process. Start by choosing a reputable driving school and attending all theory classes attentively. Practice regularly and familiarize yourself with the driving routes and regulations in Abu Dhabi. Utilize resources like online practice tests to prepare for the theory exam. Consistent practice and a calm demeanor during the practical test can significantly increase the chances of passing on the first attempt, making the process smoother and quicker.
How can I get international driving license in Abu Dhabi?
To obtain an international driving license in Abu Dhabi, you must first hold a valid UAE driving license. Visit any branch of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) with your UAE driving license, a passport copy, a valid residency visa, and two passport-sized photos. Fill out the application form and pay the required fee. The international driving permit, which is valid for one year, is usually issued on the same day. This permit allows you to drive in many countries worldwide, adhering to international driving standards.
I am Fayyaz Sidhu, a Computer Science graduate from Punjab University, bringing over 12 years of expertise in blogging, content writing, and SEO. With a passion for exploring the world through information, I am dedicated to providing a fresh and exceptional user experience on my diverse website. Regular updates ensure dynamic content across various niches, making it an enriching platform for all visitors. Welcome to a space where knowledge meets innovation.
