driving license renewal dubai
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Jan 15, 2025

A Step-by-Step Guide for Renewing Driving License in Dubai

8 min read

Driving in Dubai is an essential skill in Dubai. Given that Dubai offers a large array of options for people to enjoy and experience, it is important to have a valid driving license, especially since the city boasts high-class roads and an expanding road trip culture. If your license is about to run out, then there is no need to worry! The process for driving license renewal Dubai is simple and can be done in a set of steps.

This guide serves individuals who are new to the process of obtaining a license and those who have multiple years of experience driving; it will help clarify how to renew driving license in Dubai and everything regarding the location of license renewal, the steps needed, along with fees, eligibility criteria, and other methods available for licensing.

When Should You Consider Renewing Your Driving License

It is important to note that the right preparation can save you time. It is wise to begin the process of driving license renewal Dubai at least 30 days prior to the expiry date. This would make sure that you have ample time to gather all the documents needed, take the mandatory eye examination, and settle any fines. Delaying renewal may lead to fines or other penalties, so it is always better to be proactive.

Who Can Apply for a Driving License Renewal in Dubai?

For driving license renewal Dubai, you must be eligible with the following criteria:

  • The applicant must be a resident of the UAE in possession of a valid Emirates ID and residence visa.
  • He/She must hold a Dubai-issued valid driving license. The license should not have expired more than 10 years ago.
  • A probationary license is given to those between 18-21 years of age, while applicants over the age of 21 are given an ordinary renewal that can be valid for as long as 10 years.

dubai license renewal

How to Renew Your Driving License in Dubai: A Step-by-Step Guide

Gather All Required Documents

The first process is to gather all the relevant documents for Dubai driving license renewal. You should have:

  • Original and copy of your current driving license.
  • Emirates ID - original and copy.
  • A recent passport-sized photograph on a white background.
  • Original passport with a valid residence visa - and a copy.

Additional documents may be required for some categories, such as diplomats or those with physical disabilities, including a letter from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or medical certificates.

Conduct the Appropriate Eye Test

An eye test is a top priority when it comes to license renewal Dubai. Proceed as follows:

  • Go to any registered optical retailer or hospital in Dubai. Moreover, several RTA Customer Happiness Centers also provide eye examination facilities for your ease.
  • The eye examination ranges between AED 50 - and AED 100 at most locations.
  • Upon completion, the output will be delivered to the RTA via electronic mail.

Tip: To avoid being caught off guard, please confirm the Dubai driving license renewal eye test fee.

Go to Any RTA Happiness Center

After gathering all the papers and getting the eye test done, you will need to go to any Rta Client Care Center. The following is what you need to do:

  • You will have to hand over the papers to the legal counter for verification.
  • If there are any pending payments or outstanding fines then you will have to pay them.
  • The staff in the unit will handle your request for a renewal and relay the payment information.

Settle the driving license renewal Dubai fees.

The total payment for the Dubai license renewal is as follows:

  • AED 300 for 10 years above for those aged 21 and above, and 5 years for those ages between 18-21.
  • Knowledge & Innovation- AED 20
  • Issuance of License Card: AED 50

Total Cost: AED 370

Please be advised that there are sources of consideration different than what is provided in this note. Always verify the RTA website before starting the application process.

Get Your Renewed License

Once the payment is made, you can get your renewed license within a very short time. At the RTA center, it hardly takes more than 30 minutes to complete the process, if all documents are ready and the fines are already cleared.

Other Ways for Driving License Renewal Dubai

Renewal of your driving license in Dubai is available through various means, so you can opt for the method suitable for you:

Online Renewal

The entire license renewal in Dubai can be done online on the RTA website or through their mobile app. Ensure your eye test is done and no personal details, such as Emirates ID or address, need updating.

RTA Smart Kiosks

RTA kiosks are placed at various places in Dubai, offering a self-serving facility for driving license renewal in Dubai. These kiosks operate 24/7, making it easy to renew your license at any time.

RTA Dubai Drive App

This app simplifies the renewal process:

  • Upload your documents and eye test results.
  • Pay the fees through secure payment options.
  • Receive a temporary e-license that can be used until the physical card arrives

Additional Tips for a Smooth License Renewal Process

To ensure your Dubai license renewal process goes smoothly, keep these tips in mind:

  • Check fines in advance: Log on to the RTA website or app, check for outstanding traffic fines, and clear them.
  • Start early: It is not prudent to start renewing the license when it is already at expiration. It helps one avoid fines and some unexpected delays.
  • Consider rentals during downtime: In case your license renewal takes more time than expected, consider a monthly car rental Dubai or even a weekly car rental to keep moving without the headache of restrictions that come with a license in limbo.

driving license renewal dubai

Late Renewal Penalties

You will be charged some money for late renewal of the license, including:

  • AED 10 per month but not exceeding AED 500.
  • If your license has been expired for more than 10 years, you'll need to go through a compulsive road test before it's renewed. The aggregate amount will range up to AED 1,370 including fees and fines.

Why Renewal of License Matters

Driving on an expired license is not only against the law but also not safe either. Renewing it will keep you within the ambit of Dubai's traffic laws and regulations, avoiding fines while continuing to be a responsible driver on the road.

Well, renewing your driving license in Dubai is not that big a deal if you follow the steps highlighted in this guide. Be it visiting any RTA Customer Happiness Center, using a smart kiosk, or even online renewal, you will find the process quick and efficient.

This will keep you running with the culture of Dubai, its landscapes, and modern infrastructure without any hindrance. Remember, timely renewal not only keeps you legal but also saves you from unnecessary fines and penalties. So do not delay it, and start your driving license renewal in Dubai process today!