In Dubai, residents can obtain a driving licence by enrolling in registered institutes, completing theoretical and practical training, and passing the required tests overseen by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
Step 1: Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a driving licence in Dubai, you must:
- Be a resident of the emirate.
- Be at least 17 years and 6 months old to start training; the licence will be issued at 18 years of age.
- Be medically fit.
- Enroll in and graduate from an RTA-approved driving institute.
- Pass all required tests.
Special-Needs Applicants
Applicants with mental or physical disabilities must open a training file based on medical report recommendations. The number of training sessions will be set in coordination with the Drivers Affairs department according to the type of disability.
Step 2: Register with an RTA-Approved Driving Institute
The approved driving institutes in Dubai include:
- Emirates Driving Institute
- Belhasa Driving Centre
- Al Ahli Driving Centre
- Dubai Driving Centre
- Galadari Motor Driving Centre
- Drive Dubai
Step 3: Pass the Optical Test
An eye test must be conducted at an RTA-authorized center. Vision enhancement devices such as contact lenses or glasses are permitted if approved. Once the eye test is completed, the report will determine if your eyesight is fit for driving. Following this, you can open your file and choose a suitable course.
Step 4: Attend Theoretical Classes and Take the Test
After passing the eye test and opening your file, you must attend theoretical classes covering risk perception, traffic laws, road signage, and safety procedures. Institutes offer mock tests to help prepare for the theoretical test, which is available in multiple languages. Practical training can begin only after passing the theory test.
Step 5: Practical Training and Tests
With the theory test passed, you can now begin practical training. According to the RTA, 20 hours of practical training are mandatory for new licence applicants. After completing the training, you must undergo two RTA tests and an assessment test from the driving school:
- RTA Parking Test: Conducted in the driving school’s designated RTA smart yard, this test uses smart cameras to assess students.
- Assessment Test: Conducted by the driving school examiner, this test mirrors the RTA final road test and assesses knowledge of road signage and traffic rules.
- RTA Final Road Test: Conducted by an RTA official, this final test assesses overall driving skills, risk awareness, and rule compliance.
Step 6: Obtain Your Licence
After completing the theoretical and practical training and passing all RTA and driving school tests, you can collect your driving licence.
By following these steps and meeting all requirements, residents in Dubai can successfully obtain their driving licence and start driving legally.
