Getting a Driving License in Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide
Obtaining a driving license in Dubai is a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and adherence to the rules and regulations set by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This guide provides a step-by-step overview of the process, including fees, driving school options, and durations for different license types.
Step-by-Step Process
- Eye Test: Get an eye test from an RTA-approved optical center. This is a mandatory requirement.
- Open a Traffic File: Visit an RTA-authorized driving school and open a traffic file. You will need to submit the following documents:
- Original Emirates ID and a copy
- Passport copy with visa page
- Two passport-size photos
- Eye test report
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor (if required for certain professions)
- Theory Lectures: Attend theory lectures at your chosen driving school. These lectures cover traffic rules, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can often take these online or in person.
- Theory Test: After completing the theory lectures, you will need to pass a theory test conducted by the RTA. The test is computer-based and assesses your knowledge of traffic rules and regulations.
- Practical Training: Once you pass the theory test, you can begin practical driving lessons with your driving school. The number of training hours depends on your previous driving experience and the type of license you are applying for.
- Parking Test: Before your final road test you will have to perform a parking test in the driving school yard. This include a hill start, an emergency brake, a garage parking, and a parallel parking.
- Internal Assessment: In some schools there is an internal assessment before your final RTA road test.
- Final Road Test: After completing your practical training, you will take a final road test with an RTA examiner. The test evaluates your driving skills, road awareness, and adherence to traffic rules.
- Get Your License: If you pass the final road test, you will receive your driving license on the spot, or shortly after.
Fees
The total cost of obtaining a driving license in Dubai varies depending on several factors, including the driving school, the number of training hours, and the type of license. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the fees:
| Fee Type | Approximate Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| RTA File Opening | 200 |
| Eye Test | 150 – 180 |
| Theory Test | 200 |
| Practical Training (per hour) | 80 – 100 (varies by school and package) |
| RTA Road Test | 200 |
| License Issuance | 110 (for 2 year validity under 21 years old), 310 (for 5 year validity for 21 years and older) |
| Handbook | 50 |
Note: These are approximate costs and may vary. It’s best to check with the driving school and RTA for the most up-to-date fee structure.
Driving Schools and Their Options
There are several RTA-approved driving schools in Dubai, each offering a range of courses and packages. Here are some of the popular ones:
Each school has different pricing and packages. It’s best to contact them directly to get detailed information and choose a package that suits your needs and budget.
Time Duration for Different License Types
The time required to obtain a driving license depends on the type of license and your previous driving experience. In most cases there are options for 20, 15 or 10 hours of classes depending on your experience:
- 20 hours: For applicants with no prior driving experience.
- 15 hours: For applicants who hold a valid driving license from their home country for less than five years.
- 10 hours: For applicants who hold a valid driving license from their home country for more than five years.
Here’s a general overview of the different license categories and their typical durations:
| License Type | Description | Typical Duration (Weeks) |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle | For riding motorcycles | 4-8 |
| Light Motor Vehicle (Manual/Automatic) | For driving cars with manual or automatic transmission | 4-12 |
| Heavy Truck | For driving heavy trucks | 6-12 |
| Heavy Bus | For driving heavy buses | 6-12 |
| Light Bus | For driving light buses | 6-12 |
| Forklift | For driving forklifts (light and heavy) | 4-8 |
Note: These are approximate durations and may vary depending on individual progress and driving school schedules.
Conclusion
Getting a driving license in Dubai is a well-structured process that ensures drivers are competent and knowledgeable about road safety. By following the steps outlined in this guide, understanding the fees, choosing the right driving school, and dedicating time to practice, you can successfully obtain your Dubai driving license and enjoy the freedom of driving in this vibrant city.
