Apply Driving License in Abu Dhabi - A Complete Detailed Guide

Tejen Chaudhary
Tejen Chaudhary
Est. Reading Time 12 mins

Key Highlights:

  • Learn the complete process of applying for a driving license
  • Step-by-step guide with every detail included
  • The total cost required to obtain a new driver’s license explained

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is one of the most advanced cities in the world. Known for its skyscrapers, modern architecture, and rich Islamic history, Abu Dhabi can truly be explored by road. Hence, to drive on the impeccably smooth roads of Abu Dhabi, you need a valid driver’s license. So, if you are new to driving in Abu Dhabi or looking for a domestic driver’s license, there is a long list of procedures and documentation that you need to know in-depth. Read below our complete detailed guide to applying for a driving license in Abu Dhabi in 2024, including the cost, documentation, process, and time.

Types of Driving License in Abu Dhabi and Application Eligibility Details

Before we proceed with the detailed process of applying for a driving license in Abu Dhabi, we need to understand the types of driving licenses offered by the government. Primarily, one must be a registered citizen of the UAE before applying for a driving license. Depending on the age and driving ability of the applicant, there are various types of driving licenses. These are explained in brief below:

Type of License

Minimum Age Required

Motorcycle

17

Light Vehicle

18

Heavy Truck

20

Light Mechanical Vehicle

20

Heavy Mechanical Vehicle

20

Light Bus

21

Heavy Bus

21

Necessary Documents Required for Applying Driving License in Abu Dhabi

Before you proceed with the application process details, it is necessary to understand that a specific set of documents is required by the applicant to be fulfilled to get a driving license in Abu Dhabi. These essential documents are as below:

  • Two recent passport-size photographs with a clear identification of the applicant
  • Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
  • Original driving license along with a photocopy (if applicable)
  • An NOC issued by your sponsor (for applicants with international driving licenses)
  • Your residency visa copy
  • Your traffic file number (for road tests and driving lessons)

Also read: How To Apply For Your Drivers License In UAE

Process of Application of Driving License in Abu Dhabi

The process of applying for a driving license in Abu Dhabi has been divided into two different categories. One is for the new applicants who are applying for the first time to obtain a valid license in Abu Dhabi. Another is for people who already have a valid international driving license from another country. Such applicants are treated under the ‘Markhoos Recognition’ list. Let us explain the in-depth process and difference between both of these types.

  1. New Applicant
  2. Applicant with International Driving License

New Applicant Process - Details

Applying for the first time? No worries! You need to follow a simple procedure to obtain a driver’s license in Abu Dhabi. A new applicant has to undergo various steps that include a physical test, a textual test, and finally, a physical examination of driving, before they get their valid driving license. This complete process is explained in the details below:

  • Step 1 - Eye Test
    The first step of obtaining a driving license includes a thorough check-up of your eyes. It is a mandatory step and to complete it, you need to visit your nearest Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Department office. Visit your nearest center with all of the above-mentioned documents, and file for a fresh test.

    It is a simple process that ensures the health of your eyes as per the required mandate for driving in Abu Dhabi. This ensures the safety of road passengers as well as the applicant. This eye test usually takes 5 minutes and the process fee is AED 100.


The Traffic and Licensing Department of Abu Dhabi has also licensed a few trained opticians. You can also visit these opticians to get this eye test done. Once your eye test is completed, the optician or the department (whichever method you choose) will provide you with an eye test certificate.

Timings of Eye Test:
7:30 am to 4 pm (Monday-Thursday)
7:30 am to 12 pm (Friday)

  • Step 2 - Generate a Traffic File
    The next step after the eye test is to create a traffic file to get a traffic file number. This traffic file number is further used for training and tests. Now, there are two methods to create the traffic file, these are as below:

    1. Abu Dhabi Police Mobile App
    2. TAMM Portal (link here)

    Both of these options provide online assistance to create the traffic file. Additionally, for both of these methods, you need a set of documents to create the traffic file. These documents are mentioned below:
    1. Eye Test Certificate
    2. Passport-size Photo
    3. Emirates ID

    TAMM Portal - Complete Process of Traffic File

If you are applying through the TAMM online portal, make sure to follow the below steps to make the process easy and quick:

  • Visit the TAMM online portal - www.tamm.abudhabi
  • On the home page, go to the ‘Vehicles and Transportation’ drop-down menu. Here, select ‘Driving Services
  • Once done, click on the ‘Open a Driving License’ tab and then proceed to click ‘Start’
  • Enter the UAE Pass to proceed to the login
  • Now, you need to select the type of license you are applying for (Example: Motorcycle, Light vehicle, etc.)
  • In the next step, click on the ‘New’ category. Here, you need to select the nearest driving test center as per your feasibility. This center will be assigned to you for driving lessons and driving tests.
  • Now, select the type of transmission you want to be tested for. This can either be a ‘manual’ or an ‘automatic’. Select this as per your requirements.
  • In the next step, the portal will ask you to feed your personal info. However, the smart AI system of the portal will automatically feed the information as per your UAE Pass. You can check and correct the information displayed here.
  • The next step will be to upload all the necessary documents.
  • The last step includes an online payment of AED 200. This can be done with your debit or credit cards.

Once you have completed this step, a traffic file number will be generated in the name of the candidate. This number will be further used for driving lessons and physical training.


Also Read: Renew your driving license in UAE: Step by Step Guide

Step 3 - Driving Lessons and Training

This step includes a crucial training of applicants by teaching lessons, conducting a virtual exam, and finally road testing the abilities of the candidate to conquer Abu Dhabi’s strict traffic regulations. For this, the candidate needs to open a ‘Driving File’ at your nearest government-approved driving school. The officially authorized driving school will teach the applicant theoretical driving skills.

To create this ‘Driving File’ at any certified driving school, the following documents are required:

1. Traffic File Number
2. Emirates ID and Passport Copy
3. Residency Visa Copy
4. Two Passport-size Photos
5. No Objection Certificate (NOC) by parents/guardians - For applicants of age 17

Complete Driving Course Details

So, what does a certified driving school teach you? Well, this process includes a theoretical learning part about the regulations and driving culture of Abu Dhabi. There will be eight various lessons that will be taught to you in video format. These are explained below:

1. Understanding of traffic rules, road signs, and road markings
2. What are the city limits and how to follow them
3. What are the outside city limits and their importance
4. Driving under difficult conditions such as tight traffic, bad weather, and more
5. How to deal with critical situations such as accidents
6. How to obey the correct driving behaviour and road manners
7. A complete basic knowledge of vehicles
8. Safety of other passengers and road users

As mentioned, these lessons will be taught via video format, meaning that this course will hardly take 2 hours to complete. Once done, the applicant needs to pass a theoretical test containing 35 questions regarding the lessons. The course fee is AED 830 while an additional fee of AED 50 is required for the test.

Once you have completed the theoretical tests, your instructor provides a ‘Certificate of Readiness’. This certificate is needed for the final road testing done by the Driving and Licensing Department of Abu Dhabi.

  • Step 4 - Get a Road Test Date and Training Permit Card
    Once the theoretical part is done, it is now time for the applicant to show their driving skills. But, before that, the applicant needs to book a road test date for themselves. This is done via the TAMM portal in a few easy steps, as mentioned below:

    1. Login to the TAMM portal
    2. Enter your UAE Pass credentials
    3. Start the process from the destined tab
    4. Enter your traffic file number
    5. Choose a driving location as mentioned in Step 2
    6. Complete the online payment
    7. Receive a confirmation SMS

    Once this process is completed, the applicant will receive a road test date as well as a Training Permit Card. The fee for the Training Permit Card is AED 100. To block a road test date, you need to pay AED 200.
  • Step 5 - Road Test and License Issuance
    The last step for the applicant is to complete a 6-hour external road training via any certified driving school. The customer can choose any school depending on their preferences. Once done, you need to report back to the Driving and Licensing Department test center, as per your chosen date and location, for the road test. Here, your driving skills are tested by the official instructors, reading your behaviour and abilities to conquer the different conditions. The applicants need to pass different driving tests like parking in tight spaces, making tight U-turns, driving over steep inclines, and more.

    While it usually takes a new applicant 15-20 minutes to prove their driving skills to the instructor, one can also go for re-attempts, if they fail. In such cases, the applicant needs to take 7-hour training before re-attempting. The total cost of obtaining a driving license in Abu Dhabi is directly dependent on the number of attempts taken to clear the tests.

    Once a candidate passes these tests, the instructor then issues a ‘Completion Certificate’. This certificate is then submitted to the Drivers and Licensing Department of Abu Dhabi. Once done, a valid new driving license in the name of the applicant is issued within 15 minutes. Two types of licenses are provided to the applicants: an E-license and a physical copy that can be collected from the nearest Abu Dhabi Police Customer Happiness Centers.

Also Read: How To Renew Your Indian International Driving License in The UAE?

As reported online by new drivers, here below is a list of a few popular driving schools in Abu Dhabi that are certified by the authorities.

1. Emirates Driving Company - https://elearning.edcad.ae/
Address: Sector M34, Mussaffah Industrial Area, Mussaffah, Abu Dhabi (Landmark: Near Spence Interiors LLC, Zip Code - 2943
Phone: +97125511911

2. Al Kamal Motor Driving School - https://uae.arablocal.com/business/view/al-kamal-driving-school
Address: +XM3, Central District - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates, Zip Code: 15446
Phone: +971737643824

3. Al Karamah Driving School - https://www.uaeresults.com/1032373/Driving_Instructors_And_Schools/Abu_Dhabi/Al_Omran_Driving_School/
Address: Near Royal Rotary Hotel Apartments, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, Zip Code - 15671
Phone: +97137656261

4. Al Omran Driving School - https://uae.arablocal.com/business/view/al-omran-driving-school
Address: 8GCP+56J, Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Shabiya 12, Abu Dhabi
Phone: +97126727134

5. Sun Rise Driving School - https://ae.arabplaces.com/abu-dhabi/sun-rise-driving-school-123725
Address: Musaffah M-11, Abu Dhabi, Zip Code - 71394
Phone: +97124432503, +97124431883

Applicants with International Driving License - Process Details

Since we now know how to obtain a new driving license for Abu Dhabi residents, what about the driving license for applicants with international driving licenses? Well, Abu Dhabi’s ‘Markhoos Recognition and Exchange Driver License’ policy is made for such applicants. As per this, Abu Dhabi’s government has a pact with a list of nations. This pact allows the applicants from these countries to officially convert their driving license into an Emirati driving license. This list of countries includes 46 different countries, which you can see here.

If you belong to one of these countries, here is a simple process that you will need to follow to convert your home country’s license into a UAE license:

1. Photocopies of important documents - Emirates ID, Passport, Current License, Visa page for Abu Dhabi residency
2. Two clear and recent passport-size photos
3. A no objection certificate (NOC) by your sponsor/workplace
4. Legal translation of your current driving license in Arabic (can be done via typing centers in Abu Dhabi)
5. Eye Test Certificate (fee - AED 100)
6. Payment of free (AED 250)

Once the above procedure is completed, the Driving and Licensing Department of Abu Dhabi will generate your new Emirati driving license.

Total Cost of Getting a Driving License in Abu Dhabi

As you are now aware of the complete process of acquiring a new driving license in Abu Dhabi, below is a detailed breakdown of the total cost of a driving license.

Service

Cost in AED

Eye Test

100

Traffic File

100

Training Lessons at EDC + Test

830 + 50

Practical Test Fee (Lowest Estimated)

2,705

Training Permit

100

Driving Test

200

Issuance of Driving License

350

Converting International License

250

So, the estimated overall cost of getting a new driving license in Abu Dhabi is around AED 4,435*.

*costs may vary depending on the sessions taken to clear tests

Tips From CARS24 To Easily Get Driving License

The whole process of getting a driver's license in Abu Dhabi has been made very easy and articulated by the officials with the use of technology. However, a few quick tips from us can save you time and energy, if followed. These are as follows:

1. Research Well: We hope our detailed guide for applying for a new driving license in Dubai has been helpful. However, we suggest you research well on the documents required or any law changes that might have happened very recently. Such research can be easily done organically, by talking to the people around you, and web surfing the official Abu Dhabi licensing website.

2. Proactive Approach: To save you time and effort, your proactive approach will come in handy while applying for a new driving license. Make sure that all of the required documents are available with you in the updated form. Additionally, make sure to keep photocopies of the required documents ready, so that you can save time while submitting or uploading documents.

3. Pay Attention: While taking the video classes and training lessons, make sure to pay close attention to the instructions. Always feel free to ask questions to the instructors so that you receive the best possible information that can help you in an easy practical examination.

4. No Alternatives: If you fail a test, make sure to keep ready to re-learn the techniques and go for the learning sessions again. Do not hesitate to the complexity or longevity of the process, rather, pay attention to the mistakes you made and clear them step-by-step.

5. Be Patient: While learning new things, we must keep calm and remain patient. Our patience is the key to learning new things and adapting effectively. Hence, while taking lessons and practicing a learner car, remain calm and drive with a cool mind. This way, you can pay more attention to the road and eliminate the possibility of mistakes.

Also Read: Best-in-class SUVs under AED 150,000

Your Questions, We Answer!


1. How long will it take to get a Driving License in Abu Dhabi?
The complete process of getting a driving license in Abu Dhabi is a bit treacherous, depending on the license type and your progress pace. While it usually takes from 3-6 months to get a driving license, this can extend as well, if you have to undergo extra training and re-examination by the authorities.

2. How do I check my Driving License status?
The process of checking the status of your application for driving license is easy. Just visit the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport website and enter the required details. Once done, the online portal will display the status of your application.

3. How difficult is it to pass the road test by the authorities?
While a lot of factors determine the road test difficulty, a major part of the test is played by the type of license you require and the level of your skills. The RTA (Road Transportation Authority) has a specified test layout, depending on the license type. You need to be attentive while learning lessons and doing the road training. Additionally, a calm mind and relaxed attitude help a lot.

4. How many times can I apply for a re-examination if I fail the road test?
The Abu Dhbai’s RTA policies are user-friendly and hence there are no such boundaries for new driving license applicants that they can’t exceed the limit. You can apply for re-evaluation and road tests as many times as you want. All it requires is an additional cost that you need to pay every time you file for re-evaluation.

5. How can I save money while applying for road tests?
There is no option to get a discount or save money while applying for a new driving license in Abu Dhabi. The new license policy has a specified cost for every different test conducted. As we mentioned above, there is a minimal cost that an applicant needs to pay. However, if you do not want to exceed this cost, make sure to clear the road tests in a single go. Repetitive exams will cost you more than usual.

Key Highlights:

  • Learn the complete process of applying for a driving license
  • Step-by-step guide with every detail included
  • The total cost required to obtain a new driver’s license explained

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is one of the most advanced cities in the world. Known for its skyscrapers, modern architecture, and rich Islamic history, Abu Dhabi can truly be explored by road. Hence, to drive on the impeccably smooth roads of Abu Dhabi, you need a valid driver’s license. So, if you are new to driving in Abu Dhabi or looking for a domestic driver’s license, there is a long list of procedures and documentation that you need to know in-depth. Read below our complete detailed guide to applying for a driving license in Abu Dhabi in 2024, including the cost, documentation, process, and time.

Types of Driving License in Abu Dhabi and Application Eligibility Details

Before we proceed with the detailed process of applying for a driving license in Abu Dhabi, we need to understand the types of driving licenses offered by the government. Primarily, one must be a registered citizen of the UAE before applying for a driving license. Depending on the age and driving ability of the applicant, there are various types of driving licenses. These are explained in brief below:

Type of License

Minimum Age Required

Motorcycle

17

Light Vehicle

18

Heavy Truck

20

Light Mechanical Vehicle

20

Heavy Mechanical Vehicle

20

Light Bus

21

Heavy Bus

21

Necessary Documents Required for Applying Driving License in Abu Dhabi

Before you proceed with the application process details, it is necessary to understand that a specific set of documents is required by the applicant to be fulfilled to get a driving license in Abu Dhabi. These essential documents are as below:

  • Two recent passport-size photographs with a clear identification of the applicant
  • Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
  • Original driving license along with a photocopy (if applicable)
  • An NOC issued by your sponsor (for applicants with international driving licenses)
  • Your residency visa copy
  • Your traffic file number (for road tests and driving lessons)

Also read: How To Apply For Your Drivers License In UAE

Process of Application of Driving License in Abu Dhabi

The process of applying for a driving license in Abu Dhabi has been divided into two different categories. One is for the new applicants who are applying for the first time to obtain a valid license in Abu Dhabi. Another is for people who already have a valid international driving license from another country. Such applicants are treated under the ‘Markhoos Recognition’ list. Let us explain the in-depth process and difference between both of these types.

  1. New Applicant
  2. Applicant with International Driving License

New Applicant Process - Details

Applying for the first time? No worries! You need to follow a simple procedure to obtain a driver’s license in Abu Dhabi. A new applicant has to undergo various steps that include a physical test, a textual test, and finally, a physical examination of driving, before they get their valid driving license. This complete process is explained in the details below:

  • Step 1 - Eye Test
    The first step of obtaining a driving license includes a thorough check-up of your eyes. It is a mandatory step and to complete it, you need to visit your nearest Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Department office. Visit your nearest center with all of the above-mentioned documents, and file for a fresh test.

    It is a simple process that ensures the health of your eyes as per the required mandate for driving in Abu Dhabi. This ensures the safety of road passengers as well as the applicant. This eye test usually takes 5 minutes and the process fee is AED 100.


The Traffic and Licensing Department of Abu Dhabi has also licensed a few trained opticians. You can also visit these opticians to get this eye test done. Once your eye test is completed, the optician or the department (whichever method you choose) will provide you with an eye test certificate.

Timings of Eye Test:
7:30 am to 4 pm (Monday-Thursday)
7:30 am to 12 pm (Friday)

  • Step 2 - Generate a Traffic File
    The next step after the eye test is to create a traffic file to get a traffic file number. This traffic file number is further used for training and tests. Now, there are two methods to create the traffic file, these are as below:

    1. Abu Dhabi Police Mobile App
    2. TAMM Portal (link here)

    Both of these options provide online assistance to create the traffic file. Additionally, for both of these methods, you need a set of documents to create the traffic file. These documents are mentioned below:
    1. Eye Test Certificate
    2. Passport-size Photo
    3. Emirates ID

    TAMM Portal - Complete Process of Traffic File

If you are applying through the TAMM online portal, make sure to follow the below steps to make the process easy and quick:

  • Visit the TAMM online portal - www.tamm.abudhabi
  • On the home page, go to the ‘Vehicles and Transportation’ drop-down menu. Here, select ‘Driving Services
  • Once done, click on the ‘Open a Driving License’ tab and then proceed to click ‘Start’
  • Enter the UAE Pass to proceed to the login
  • Now, you need to select the type of license you are applying for (Example: Motorcycle, Light vehicle, etc.)
  • In the next step, click on the ‘New’ category. Here, you need to select the nearest driving test center as per your feasibility. This center will be assigned to you for driving lessons and driving tests.
  • Now, select the type of transmission you want to be tested for. This can either be a ‘manual’ or an ‘automatic’. Select this as per your requirements.
  • In the next step, the portal will ask you to feed your personal info. However, the smart AI system of the portal will automatically feed the information as per your UAE Pass. You can check and correct the information displayed here.
  • The next step will be to upload all the necessary documents.
  • The last step includes an online payment of AED 200. This can be done with your debit or credit cards.

Once you have completed this step, a traffic file number will be generated in the name of the candidate. This number will be further used for driving lessons and physical training.


Also Read: Renew your driving license in UAE: Step by Step Guide

Step 3 - Driving Lessons and Training

This step includes a crucial training of applicants by teaching lessons, conducting a virtual exam, and finally road testing the abilities of the candidate to conquer Abu Dhabi’s strict traffic regulations. For this, the candidate needs to open a ‘Driving File’ at your nearest government-approved driving school. The officially authorized driving school will teach the applicant theoretical driving skills.

To create this ‘Driving File’ at any certified driving school, the following documents are required:

1. Traffic File Number
2. Emirates ID and Passport Copy
3. Residency Visa Copy
4. Two Passport-size Photos
5. No Objection Certificate (NOC) by parents/guardians - For applicants of age 17

Complete Driving Course Details

So, what does a certified driving school teach you? Well, this process includes a theoretical learning part about the regulations and driving culture of Abu Dhabi. There will be eight various lessons that will be taught to you in video format. These are explained below:

1. Understanding of traffic rules, road signs, and road markings
2. What are the city limits and how to follow them
3. What are the outside city limits and their importance
4. Driving under difficult conditions such as tight traffic, bad weather, and more
5. How to deal with critical situations such as accidents
6. How to obey the correct driving behaviour and road manners
7. A complete basic knowledge of vehicles
8. Safety of other passengers and road users

As mentioned, these lessons will be taught via video format, meaning that this course will hardly take 2 hours to complete. Once done, the applicant needs to pass a theoretical test containing 35 questions regarding the lessons. The course fee is AED 830 while an additional fee of AED 50 is required for the test.

Once you have completed the theoretical tests, your instructor provides a ‘Certificate of Readiness’. This certificate is needed for the final road testing done by the Driving and Licensing Department of Abu Dhabi.

  • Step 4 - Get a Road Test Date and Training Permit Card
    Once the theoretical part is done, it is now time for the applicant to show their driving skills. But, before that, the applicant needs to book a road test date for themselves. This is done via the TAMM portal in a few easy steps, as mentioned below:

    1. Login to the TAMM portal
    2. Enter your UAE Pass credentials
    3. Start the process from the destined tab
    4. Enter your traffic file number
    5. Choose a driving location as mentioned in Step 2
    6. Complete the online payment
    7. Receive a confirmation SMS

    Once this process is completed, the applicant will receive a road test date as well as a Training Permit Card. The fee for the Training Permit Card is AED 100. To block a road test date, you need to pay AED 200.
  • Step 5 - Road Test and License Issuance
    The last step for the applicant is to complete a 6-hour external road training via any certified driving school. The customer can choose any school depending on their preferences. Once done, you need to report back to the Driving and Licensing Department test center, as per your chosen date and location, for the road test. Here, your driving skills are tested by the official instructors, reading your behaviour and abilities to conquer the different conditions. The applicants need to pass different driving tests like parking in tight spaces, making tight U-turns, driving over steep inclines, and more.

    While it usually takes a new applicant 15-20 minutes to prove their driving skills to the instructor, one can also go for re-attempts, if they fail. In such cases, the applicant needs to take 7-hour training before re-attempting. The total cost of obtaining a driving license in Abu Dhabi is directly dependent on the number of attempts taken to clear the tests.

    Once a candidate passes these tests, the instructor then issues a ‘Completion Certificate’. This certificate is then submitted to the Drivers and Licensing Department of Abu Dhabi. Once done, a valid new driving license in the name of the applicant is issued within 15 minutes. Two types of licenses are provided to the applicants: an E-license and a physical copy that can be collected from the nearest Abu Dhabi Police Customer Happiness Centers.

Also Read: How To Renew Your Indian International Driving License in The UAE?

As reported online by new drivers, here below is a list of a few popular driving schools in Abu Dhabi that are certified by the authorities.

1. Emirates Driving Company - https://elearning.edcad.ae/
Address: Sector M34, Mussaffah Industrial Area, Mussaffah, Abu Dhabi (Landmark: Near Spence Interiors LLC, Zip Code - 2943
Phone: +97125511911

2. Al Kamal Motor Driving School - https://uae.arablocal.com/business/view/al-kamal-driving-school
Address: +XM3, Central District - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates, Zip Code: 15446
Phone: +971737643824

3. Al Karamah Driving School - https://www.uaeresults.com/1032373/Driving_Instructors_And_Schools/Abu_Dhabi/Al_Omran_Driving_School/
Address: Near Royal Rotary Hotel Apartments, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, Zip Code - 15671
Phone: +97137656261

4. Al Omran Driving School - https://uae.arablocal.com/business/view/al-omran-driving-school
Address: 8GCP+56J, Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Shabiya 12, Abu Dhabi
Phone: +97126727134

5. Sun Rise Driving School - https://ae.arabplaces.com/abu-dhabi/sun-rise-driving-school-123725
Address: Musaffah M-11, Abu Dhabi, Zip Code - 71394
Phone: +97124432503, +97124431883

Applicants with International Driving License - Process Details

Since we now know how to obtain a new driving license for Abu Dhabi residents, what about the driving license for applicants with international driving licenses? Well, Abu Dhabi’s ‘Markhoos Recognition and Exchange Driver License’ policy is made for such applicants. As per this, Abu Dhabi’s government has a pact with a list of nations. This pact allows the applicants from these countries to officially convert their driving license into an Emirati driving license. This list of countries includes 46 different countries, which you can see here.

If you belong to one of these countries, here is a simple process that you will need to follow to convert your home country’s license into a UAE license:

1. Photocopies of important documents - Emirates ID, Passport, Current License, Visa page for Abu Dhabi residency
2. Two clear and recent passport-size photos
3. A no objection certificate (NOC) by your sponsor/workplace
4. Legal translation of your current driving license in Arabic (can be done via typing centers in Abu Dhabi)
5. Eye Test Certificate (fee - AED 100)
6. Payment of free (AED 250)

Once the above procedure is completed, the Driving and Licensing Department of Abu Dhabi will generate your new Emirati driving license.

Total Cost of Getting a Driving License in Abu Dhabi

As you are now aware of the complete process of acquiring a new driving license in Abu Dhabi, below is a detailed breakdown of the total cost of a driving license.

Service

Cost in AED

Eye Test

100

Traffic File

100

Training Lessons at EDC + Test

830 + 50

Practical Test Fee (Lowest Estimated)

2,705

Training Permit

100

Driving Test

200

Issuance of Driving License

350

Converting International License

250

So, the estimated overall cost of getting a new driving license in Abu Dhabi is around AED 4,435*.

*costs may vary depending on the sessions taken to clear tests

Tips From CARS24 To Easily Get Driving License

The whole process of getting a driver's license in Abu Dhabi has been made very easy and articulated by the officials with the use of technology. However, a few quick tips from us can save you time and energy, if followed. These are as follows:

1. Research Well: We hope our detailed guide for applying for a new driving license in Dubai has been helpful. However, we suggest you research well on the documents required or any law changes that might have happened very recently. Such research can be easily done organically, by talking to the people around you, and web surfing the official Abu Dhabi licensing website.

2. Proactive Approach: To save you time and effort, your proactive approach will come in handy while applying for a new driving license. Make sure that all of the required documents are available with you in the updated form. Additionally, make sure to keep photocopies of the required documents ready, so that you can save time while submitting or uploading documents.

3. Pay Attention: While taking the video classes and training lessons, make sure to pay close attention to the instructions. Always feel free to ask questions to the instructors so that you receive the best possible information that can help you in an easy practical examination.

4. No Alternatives: If you fail a test, make sure to keep ready to re-learn the techniques and go for the learning sessions again. Do not hesitate to the complexity or longevity of the process, rather, pay attention to the mistakes you made and clear them step-by-step.

5. Be Patient: While learning new things, we must keep calm and remain patient. Our patience is the key to learning new things and adapting effectively. Hence, while taking lessons and practicing a learner car, remain calm and drive with a cool mind. This way, you can pay more attention to the road and eliminate the possibility of mistakes.

Also Read: Best-in-class SUVs under AED 150,000

Your Questions, We Answer!


1. How long will it take to get a Driving License in Abu Dhabi?
The complete process of getting a driving license in Abu Dhabi is a bit treacherous, depending on the license type and your progress pace. While it usually takes from 3-6 months to get a driving license, this can extend as well, if you have to undergo extra training and re-examination by the authorities.

2. How do I check my Driving License status?
The process of checking the status of your application for driving license is easy. Just visit the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport website and enter the required details. Once done, the online portal will display the status of your application.

3. How difficult is it to pass the road test by the authorities?
While a lot of factors determine the road test difficulty, a major part of the test is played by the type of license you require and the level of your skills. The RTA (Road Transportation Authority) has a specified test layout, depending on the license type. You need to be attentive while learning lessons and doing the road training. Additionally, a calm mind and relaxed attitude help a lot.

4. How many times can I apply for a re-examination if I fail the road test?
The Abu Dhbai’s RTA policies are user-friendly and hence there are no such boundaries for new driving license applicants that they can’t exceed the limit. You can apply for re-evaluation and road tests as many times as you want. All it requires is an additional cost that you need to pay every time you file for re-evaluation.

5. How can I save money while applying for road tests?
There is no option to get a discount or save money while applying for a new driving license in Abu Dhabi. The new license policy has a specified cost for every different test conducted. As we mentioned above, there is a minimal cost that an applicant needs to pay. However, if you do not want to exceed this cost, make sure to clear the road tests in a single go. Repetitive exams will cost you more than usual.

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Tejen Chaudhary

Fueled by passion and love for automobiles, Tejen has been writing and editing automotive content for more than a decade. It is his expertise of technical knowledge about cars that sets him apart.

abu dhabidriving licenseDRIVING TEST

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