How to Convert an International Driving Permit to a UAE License (Excludes Pakistanis)
Staff Report
Are you a new Dubai resident with a driving license from your home country? It might seem like a dream to get a new driving permit, but for Pakistanis, this dream is more challenging to achieve. The reason: Pakistanis do not qualify to convert an international driving permit to a UAE license.
Stress-Free License Exchange
The thought of retaking all those theoretical and practical driving tests can be exhausting. Luckily, you might be eligible for a direct license exchange—skipping the hassle altogether. Here’s your all-in-one guide to see if you qualify and how to proceed.
Eligibility Check
First, let’s see if you’re eligible. Residents from certain countries can exchange their licenses directly without additional tests. The list includes:
– **Australia**
– **Austria**
– **Bahrain**
– **Belgium**
– **Canada**
– **Denmark**
– **Finland**
– **France**
– **Germany**
– **Greece**
– **Holland**
– **Hong Kong**
– **Ireland**
– **Italy**
– **Japan**
– **Kuwait**
– **New Zealand**
– **Norway**
– **Oman**
– **Poland**
– **Portugal**
– **Qatar**
– **Romania**
– **Saudi Arabia**
– **Singapore**
– **South Africa**
– **South Korea**
– **Spain**
– **Sweden**
– **Switzerland**
– **Turkey**
– **UK**
– **US**
Arrange Your Documents
Before diving into the application process, make sure you have these documents ready:
– **Emirates ID**
– **Original driving license**
– **Legal Arabic translation of your license**
– **No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor**
– **Two passport-sized photos**
– **Completed application form**
– **Valid eye test result from an RTA-accredited center**
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Online Application
1. **Visit the RTA Website**: Enter your Emirates ID, passport details, or traffic file number.
2. **Login**: You can also log in using UAE Pass.
3. **Navigate**: Click on ‘Apply for a New Driving License or a New Category Based on Exchanging License’.
4. **Verify**: Enter the OTP sent to your phone to verify your identity.
5. **Details**: Specify the country of your current license, enter the license details, and select the license category.
6. **Upload and Submit**: Attach a copy of your license, submit the application, and pay the required fees using a debit or credit card.
In-Person Application
1. **Visit an RTA Customer Happiness Center**: These centers are open Monday to Thursday from 8 am to 7:30 pm and Friday from 8 am to 12 pm.
2. **Submit Documents**: Hand over your documents and request the license category addition.
3. **Payment**: Pay the necessary fees.
Special Note for Singaporean Residents
For Singaporeans, the process involves applying through accredited driving institutes, completing a knowledge test, and paying specific fees. Once you pass, your license will be printed and handed over.
Fees Breakdown
Here’s what you can expect to pay for the conversion:
– **General Fees**:
– Dh200 for opening your file with RTA
– Dh600 for the new Dubai license
– Dh50 for the traffic manual
– Dh20+ for Knowledge and Innovation fees
– **Singaporean Residents**:
– Dh200 for opening a training file
– Dh100 for a learning application
– Dh50 for the traffic handbook
– Dh400 for the knowledge test
– Dh300 for the driving license issuance
– Dh20+ for Knowledge and Innovation fees
How to Claim Your License
To claim your license, present your original driving license and Emirates ID at any RTA customer happiness center. Your identity will be verified, and your license will be printed and handed to you.
If you use an Apple device, you can add your electronic license to Apple Wallet via the RTA Dubai App.
License Validity
– **21 Years and Older**: Valid for two years.
– **Under 21 Years**: Valid for one year.
Now you’re ready to hit the roads of Dubai with ease and confidence. Safe driving! 🚗✨
