A Complete Guide
Having your vehicle impounded can be stressful, but with the right steps, you can retrieve it efficiently. This guide walks you through the entire process, providing you with important details about the necessary steps, locations, and fees.
Step 1: Wait for the Impoundment Period to End
Once your vehicle has been impounded by the Sharjah Police, the empowerment period must conclude before you can begin the release process. The length of this period depends on the reason for impoundment, so ensure to act promptly once it ends.
Step 2: Visit the Sharjah Traffic and Licensing Department
After the impoundment period ends, visit the Sharjah Traffic and Licensing Department to obtain the release papers for your vehicle. Ensure you bring all required documents, including your ID and vehicle registration, to avoid any delays.
Sharjah Traffic and Licensing Department Location: Click here for the location
Step 3: Clear All Outstanding Fines
Before you can proceed with the release, make sure to clear all outstanding fines. The officers will check for any unpaid violations, and your vehicle cannot be released until all fines are settled.
Step 4: Be Aware of Daily Impoundment Fees
Be aware that a daily fine of AED 100 is charged for every day your vehicle remains in the impound lot. The longer the vehicle stays, the higher the fine. It’s important to act quickly to minimize these daily charges.
Step 5: Proceed to the Impound Yard
Once you have the release papers and have settled all fines, your next step is to head to the Sharjah Impound Yard to retrieve your vehicle. There are two possible locations where your vehicle may be held:
Lebsah Sharjah Police Impound Yard: Located near Umm Al Quwain and Falaj Al Mualla, this yard is about 35 to 40 minutes away from the Traffic and Licensing Department. If your vehicle is located at this yard, it will be indicated in your release papers.
Lebsah Sharjah Police Impound Yard Location: Click here for the location
Sharjah Impound Yard: This yard is located near the Sharjah Police Department and is only 4 minutes away from the Traffic and Licensing Department. If your vehicle is at this yard, the officers will inform you when you receive your release papers.
Sharjah Impound Yard Location: Click here for the location
Step 6: Pay the Recovery Fee
If your vehicle was impounded by RAFID Recovery, you will need to pay a recovery fee of approximately AED 400. This fee covers the cost of transporting your vehicle to the impound yard. Note that cash payments are not accepted—only card payments are allowed.
Recovery Fee Payment Location: Payment must be made at the impound yard using a credit or debit card.
Step 7: Inspect Your Vehicle
If your vehicle has been impounded for more than a month, it is recommended to bring a spare battery and air pump. Long-term impoundment may cause issues like a dead battery or flat tires. By bringing these items, you can avoid delays in getting your car back on the road.
Step 8: Final Check and Drive Away
Once you’ve paid the necessary fees and ensured your vehicle is in good condition, perform a final inspection. Ensure your car is running smoothly before driving off.
Conclusion
Retrieving an impounded vehicle from Sharjah Police doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these steps—clearing fines, paying the recovery fee, and preparing for potential vehicle issues—you can efficiently release your car.
Be sure to check which impound yard your vehicle is at and remember to bring your card for payment. Prompt action will help you minimize daily fines and quickly get back on the road.
