Dubai Driving Licence Exchange Guide for Expats
<p><strong>How to Exchange Your Foreign Driving Licence in Dubai</strong></p><p>For many expats, driving is essential in Dubai. Fortunately, the <strong>Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)</strong> allows residents from certain countries to exchange their existing licence for a Dubai licence—without taking driving lessons or road tests.</p><h3>Who Can Exchange Their Licence?</h3><p>Licences from select countries are eligible for direct exchange, including:</p><p><strong>Europe:</strong> Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Romania, Poland</p><p><strong>Other countries:</strong> UK, USA, Turkey, Japan, Hong Kong, South Africa</p><p><strong>GCC nations:</strong> Valid licences issued to GCC citizens</p><p><strong>Note:</strong> Singapore licence holders must pass a Knowledge Test. Check the full list on the <strong>RTA website</strong>.</p><h3>Documents Required</h3><p>Valid <strong>Emirates ID</strong></p><p><strong>Electronic eye test</strong> result from an RTA-authorised centre</p><p>Original <strong>foreign driving licence</strong></p><p>Passport copy with <strong>residence visa page</strong></p><p>Additional rules apply for Singapore licence holders and non-listed nationalities.</p><h3>Fees for Licence Exchange</h3><p><strong>General exchange:</strong> Dh200 (file), Dh600 (licence), Dh50 (handbook), Dh140–180 (eye test), Dh20 (Knowledge & Innovation fee)</p><p><strong>Singapore licence holders:</strong> Dh200 (file), Dh100 (learning permit), Dh50 (handbook), Dh400 (Knowledge Test), Dh300 (licence), Dh20 (Knowledge & Innovation fee)</p><p><strong>Delivery charges:</strong> Dh20–50 depending on speed and method</p><h3>Where to Apply</h3><p><strong>Online:</strong> RTA website via Emirates ID or UAE Pass</p><p><strong>Customer Happiness Centres:</strong> Umm Ramool, Al Manarah, Al Twar, Deira, Al Barsha, Al Kifaf</p><p><strong>RTA-accredited driving institutes:</strong> Emirates Driving Institute, Galadari, Belhasa, Al Ahli Driving Centre, Drive Dubai</p><h3>Step-by-Step Process (Online)</h3><p>Log in via Emirates ID, passport, or UAE Pass</p><p>Upload documents and licence copy</p><p>Complete an eye test at an authorised centre</p><p>Submit application and receive a reference number</p><p>Verify your original licence at a Customer Happiness Centre</p><p>Pay fees and download the <strong>digital licence</strong> or order a printed copy</p><h3>Licence Validity</h3><p><strong>1 year:</strong> Drivers under 21</p><p><strong>2 years:</strong> Drivers aged 21 and above</p><h3>Terms and Conditions</h3><p>Licence must be valid at the time of exchange</p><p>Eye tests must be from RTA-approved providers</p><p>Licences without security marks require embassy-issued validity certificates</p><p>Certain regions are excluded (e.g., Puerto Rico, Guam, Liechtenstein, Monaco)</p><p>GCC nationals can exchange GCC-issued licences directly</p><p><strong>Conclusion</strong><br>Exchanging a foreign driving licence in Dubai is straightforward for eligible countries. With minimal documents, an eye test, and required fees, expats can start driving soon after settling in. Always check the <strong>RTA website</strong> for the latest updates and eligible countries before applying.</p>