How To Convert A Driving License In the UAE: A Complete Guide

Whether you’re relocating to the UAE for work, school, or a new adventure, a valid UAE driving license can make life more convenient. For certain nationalities, converting a foreign driving license to a UAE license is straightforward and doesn’t require a driving test. 

However, the process has its nuances, depending on your country of origin, visa status, and the Emirate where you apply. This guide covers everything you need to know to make a successful driving license conversion.

Who Can Convert Their Driving License in the UAE?

The UAE has agreements with several countries, enabling citizens to convert the driving license issued from their home country to a UAE license without taking a test. This list includes many European, North American, and Asian countries.

List of Countries Eligible for Driving License Conversion:

Citizens from these countries typically do not need to take a driving test when converting their license. However, if your license was issued by a country not listed above, you must apply for a new UAE driving license and complete both the theory and road tests.

Exceptions & Additional Factors

• Licenses from Singapore cannot be converted directly. Singaporean driving license holders must apply for a UAE driving license through an accredited driving institute.
• Licenses from the following countries require a mandated translation into Arabic from their country’s consulate: Greece, Canada, Poland, South Korea & Turkey.

What Is The Eligibility Criteria For Driving License Conversion?

To qualify for license conversion in the UAE, you must fulfill the following criteria:

• Residence Visa: You must have a valid UAE residence visa.
• Age Requirements: The minimum age to obtain a UAE driving license is 18, however, the UAE recently announced a new Federal decree on Traffic Regulations that drops the minimum age to 17 from 29 March 2025.
• Valid Foreign Driving License: The foreign license must cover the type of vehicle you plan to drive/ride in the UAE and be valid at the time of application.

What Are The Documents Required?

To begin the license conversion process, prepare the following documents:

1. Original Driving License: The license from your home country, which must be valid and issued by an eligible country.
2. Passport and Residency Visa Copy: Proof of residency in the UAE.
3. Emirates ID: The official identification for all UAE residents.
4. Passport-Sized Photographs: Generally, two recent photos are required.
5. Eye Test Report: Obtainable from RTA-approved optical centers, this test checks your vision suitability for driving.
6. License Translation (if applicable): If your license isn’t in English or Arabic, a legal translation may be necessary.

Step-by-Step Process for Driving License Conversion in Dubai

Step 1: Eye Test

• Visit any RTA-approved optical center (Al Jaber, Yateem, or Grand Optics are popular choices).
• The cost is approximately AED 100–150.
• The test checks for visual acuity and other relevant eye metrics.
• The test results are sent directly to the RTA, streamlining the process.
• Here’s a complete guide to RTA Eye testing.

Step 2: Visit The RTA Customer Happiness Center

Head to an RTA customer happiness center or an approved typing center to begin the application process. These centers help digitize and verify your documents.

Step 3: Submit Documents and Application Form

Present all required documents, and the licensing center staff will assist in filling out and submitting the conversion application. You may also complete this step online if you prefer digital convenience.

Step 4: Pay Conversion Fees

Conversion fees vary but generally are between AED 400 and AED 800. These include application and processing fees, which you can pay via debit or credit card.

Step 5: Receive Your UAE Driving License

Once approved, you will receive it on the same day in most cases.  Some applicants may receive it immediately if all documents are in order and there are no additional requirements.

What Is The Cost Of Converting A Foreign Driving License In The UAE?

The costs involved in converting a foreign driving license in the UAE are:

• Eye Test: AED 100–150
• Application Fee: AED 400–800, varying slightly by Emirate and type of processing
• Translation Fee (if applicable): AED 100–200, depending on the language and service provider

How To Convert A Foreign Driving License In Other Emirates?

While Dubai’s RTA typically processes license conversions, each Emirate has its own licensing authority and process:

• Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Police oversees conversions.
• Sharjah & Northern Emirates: Sharjah Police or the Ministry of Interior handles conversions in these areas.

Additional Tips for Converting Your Driving License in the UAE

• Consider Online Options: Dubai’s RTA app and website allow online applications for license conversion.
• License Validity Period: Most converted licenses are valid for two years for expatriates.
• For Non-Eligible Countries: Non-eligible country license holders must enroll in a driving school and go through the whole process of getting a driving license.
• GCC Nationals: If you’re from a GCC country (Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman), you can drive using your national license as a visitor.

Converting a foreign license to a UAE driving license simplifies life in the UAE and makes it possible to drive legally in the country. The process is straightforward for nationals from eligible countries, allowing many to skip additional tests. However, residents from other countries should be prepared for driving classes and tests. By following these steps, you can navigate the license conversion process with ease.

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