How to Get a Driver’s License in Dubai in 2025 – Step-by-Step Guide

How to Get a Driver’s License in Dubai in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai’s road network is one of the most advanced in the world, making it a dream for drivers. Whether you’re a resident or an expat looking to drive in the city, obtaining a driver’s license is a crucial step. In 2025, Dubai has streamlined its licensing process, making it easier and more efficient. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your driver’s license in Dubai.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet the basic requirements:

• Age Requirement:
  • 17 years for motorcycles and specific vehicles
  • 18 years for light vehicles (cars)
  • 20 years for heavy vehicles and tractors
  • 21 years for buses
• Residency: You must be a UAE resident with a valid Emirates ID.

If you hold a valid driver’s license from certain approved countries (e.g., USA, UK, Australia, Germany), you may be eligible for a direct license transfer without taking driving lessons or tests.

Step 2: Enroll in a Driving School

Dubai has several RTA-approved driving institutes, including:

• Emirates Driving Institute
• Galadari Motor Driving Centre
• Belhasa Driving Centre
• Dubai Driving Center

Register with an institute, submit your Emirates ID, passport copy, visa copy, and eye test results. You must also pay a registration fee, which varies depending on the package you choose.

Step 3: Complete the Eye Test

An RTA-approved optical center will conduct an eye test to ensure you meet the required vision standards. Your test results will be linked to your driving file.

Step 4: Take Theory Classes & Pass the RTA Theory Test

You’ll need to attend theory classes (online or in-person) covering:

• Road signs and regulations
• Safe driving practices
• Vehicle mechanics
• RTA traffic laws

After completing the course, you must pass the RTA theory test, which consists of 35 multiple-choice questions. A minimum score of 80% is required to pass.

Step 5: Practical Driving Lessons

Once you pass the theory test, you’ll start practical driving lessons. The number of lessons depends on your previous driving experience:

• Beginner (No License): 20-30 lessons
• Holders of a License from a Non-Approved Country: 10-15 lessons
• License Holders from an Approved Country: No lessons required (only conversion test)

During these lessons, you’ll learn parking techniques, road driving, and handling various traffic conditions.

Step 6: Internal Assessments & Yard Test

Your driving school will conduct internal assessments before allowing you to take the official RTA yard test, which evaluates your ability to:

• Parallel park
• Angle park
• Hill start
• Reverse park

Passing the yard test qualifies you for road training.

Step 7: Road Test & Final RTA Exam

Once your instructor deems you ready, you’ll take the final RTA road test, where an examiner will assess your driving skills in real traffic conditions. If you pass, you will receive your driver’s license immediately.

If you fail, you’ll need additional lessons before reattempting the test.

Step 8: Get Your License

Once you pass the test, you’ll receive a temporary driving license, which will later be upgraded to a permanent UAE driving license valid for 2 to 10 years, depending on your visa status.

Cost of Getting a Driver’s License in Dubai

The total cost varies based on the driving school and the number of lessons needed. On average, expect to pay between AED 4,000 - AED 7,000, covering:

• Registration fees
• Theory and practical lessons
• Eye test fees
• RTA test fees

Conclusion

Getting a driver’s license in Dubai is a structured yet straightforward process in 2025. Whether you’re a new driver or converting an existing license, following these steps will help you obtain your license efficiently.

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