Driving License in United Arab Emirates for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in United Arab Emirates with a foreign license?
Yes, for IDP valid for tourists. Residents must obtain UAE license.. After that, you must convert to a United Arab Emirates license. Good news: the official test is available in English.
Key Facts: United Arab Emirates Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) |
| Official Test Language | Arabic, English |
| Grace Period | IDP valid for tourists. Residents must obtain UAE license. |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Not required |
| Total Cost | AED 200-500 (~$55-136 USD) exchange or AED 5,000-7,000+ (~$1,360-1,900+ USD) driving school |
| Processing Time | 1-2 days (exchange) or 2-6 months (driving school) |
Eligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
Most EU countries eligible for direct exchange. No test required.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
Both USA and UK eligible for direct exchange without tests.
🌍 Other Non-EU Citizens
Depends on nationality. 36 countries eligible for direct exchange.
🎓 Students
Can obtain license if sponsored. Same process as residents.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Most EU countries (Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, etc.), Japan, South Korea, South Africa, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Total of 36 eligible countries
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
Countries not on the 36-country list must attend driving school and pass all tests
Required Documents
- ✓Emirates ID
- ✓Valid residence visa
- ✓Eye test certificate
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓NOC (No Objection Certificate) from sponsor
- ✓Passport photos
- ✓Passport copy
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | AED 200 (~$55 USD) for exchange |
| Medical Exam | AED 100-200 (~$27-55 USD) eye test |
| Translation | AED 100-200 (~$27-55 USD) if needed |
| Total Estimated | AED 200-500 (~$55-136 USD) exchange or AED 5,000-7,000+ (~$1,360-1,900+ USD) driving school |
Tips for Expats in United Arab Emirates
- 💡36 countries eligible for direct exchange - check if yours qualifies
- 💡Different rules per emirate (Dubai RTA, Abu Dhabi ITC, Sharjah SJP)
- 💡Driving schools are very strict and structured for non-exchange countries
- 💡Automatic vs manual license distinction matters - choose carefully
- 💡Test available in English - major advantage for English speakers
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the UAE driving test in English?
Is my country on the 36-country exchange list?
What is a NOC and why do I need it?
How long does driving school take for non-exchange countries?
Does my Dubai license work in Abu Dhabi?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your United Arab Emirates driving test in English.