Ask Gulf News: Want to drive in Dubai? Check if your country’s licence is eligible for exchange

Dubai: Dubai residents holding a valid driving licence from certain countries can easily exchange it for a UAE driving licence through the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This service allows eligible residents to skip driving lessons or tests and directly obtain a UAE licence.

To qualify, applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a valid Emirates ID, and ensure their original driving licence from their home country is still valid. More than 20 countries are eligible for this licence exchange, including the UK, most European Union (EU) countries, Turkey, Japan, South Korea, and the United States.

Documents required:

Residents with a Dubai-issued visa must provide:

Fees:

Applications can be completed online through the RTA website or in person at Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Al Manarah, Al Twar, Deira, Al Barsha, or Al Kifaf. You can also apply through RTA-accredited driving institutes.

One year for applicants under 21
Two years for applicants aged 21 and above

Countries eligible for exchange include the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Turkey, the US, Japan, South Africa, and more. There over 20 countries approved for licence exchange, for the for the full list, visit the RTA website - rta.ae.

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