Who Needs to Do the Full Test?
Expats from countries not on the UAE reciprocal license exchange list (including India, Pakistan, Philippines, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Egypt, and many others) must complete the full driving test process at an RTA-approved driving institute. This is governed by Federal Traffic Law (Law No. 21 of 1995) and its amendments.
If your country qualifies for direct license exchange, see our Driver License Exchange Rules guide instead. For vehicle registration after getting your license, visit our Vehicle Registration & RTA Passing Guide.
The 9-Step UAE License Journey
Visit an RTA-approved driving school (EDI, Belhasa, Galadari in Dubai; ADTS in Abu Dhabi). Bring Emirates ID, passport copy with residence visa, 2 passport photos. Fee: AED 200–400.
Required Documents
- 🪪Original Emirates ID + copy
- 📘Passport copy with UAE residence visa page
- 📸2 passport-sized photographs (white background)
- 👁️Eye test report from authorized optical center
- 📄No Objection Certificate (if required by sponsor)
- 🌍Home country license (if any) with Arabic translation
Cost Breakdown
| File Opening | AED 200–400 |
| Eye Test | AED 50–100 |
| Theory Lectures (8 hrs) | Included in package |
| Theory Computer Test | AED 50 per attempt |
| Practical Lessons (40+ hrs) | AED 90–120/lesson |
| Yard Test (Parking) | AED 100–200 |
| RTA Road Test | AED 100 per attempt |
| License Issuance | AED 200–300 |
| TOTAL (estimated) | AED 3,500–6,000 |
Approved Driving Schools (Dubai)
Approved Driving Schools (Abu Dhabi)
Frequently Asked Questions
• RTA Dubai Driving License Portal: rta.ae
• TAMM Abu Dhabi (ADTS Portal): tamm.abudhabi
• UAE Government Portal: u.ae