How to Convert Your Foreign Driving License in Dubai

Jan 25, 2025 - 2 min read

Converting a foreign driving license to a UAE driving license is a straightforward process, provided you meet the eligibility criteria. This guide explains the steps, conditions, and options for converting your foreign driving license in Dubai.

Eligibility for License Conversion

You can convert your driving license in Dubai if:

  • You are a citizen of a country that is part of the UAE’s Driving License Exchange Program.
  • You hold a valid driving license from one of the eligible countries.
  • You are a Dubai resident with a valid residency visa and Emirates ID.

Steps to Convert Your Foreign Driving License

  1. Open a Traffic File
    • Visit any RTA Happiness Centre or RTA Registration Centre to open a traffic file.
    • You must bring your Emirates ID to complete this step.
  2. Get an Eye Test
    • Undergo an eye test at any RTA-authorized optician.
    • Ensure your vision test results are sent directly to the RTA system.
  3. Translate Your Driving License
    • Have your foreign driving license translated into Arabic through any legal translation service in Dubai.
  4. Visit an RTA Happiness Centre
    • Once all the documents are ready, visit an RTA Happiness Centre to finalize your license conversion.
    • RTA Happiness Centres are available at various locations, including:
      • Al Manara Centre
      • Al Barsha Traffic Department
      • Deira Licensing Centre
      • Al Tawar Centre
      • Umm Ramool
      • Dubai Festival City Centre

Is Your Country Included in the Exchange Program?

There are 40 countries included in the UAE Driving License Exchange Program. Citizens of these countries can directly convert their licenses without additional driving classes. Click here to view the list of eligible countries.

If Your Country Is Not Included in the Exchange Program

If you are not a citizen of the eligible countries or do not hold a driving license from these countries:

  • Apply for a UAE Driving License:
    Enroll in driving lessons at any RTA-approved driving school in Dubai, such as Galadari, Emirates Driving Institute, or Belhasa Driving School.

If You Hold a License from Your Home Country (Non-Eligible Countries)

Even if your country is not part of the exchange program, you may be eligible for discounts on driving lessons. Contact any RTA-approved driving school to inquire about these discounts and other benefits for holders of foreign driving licenses.

By following these steps and conditions, you can smoothly transition to driving legally in Dubai. Make sure to prepare your documents and fulfill the necessary requirements to avoid delays in the process.

Am I eligible to convert my foreign driving license to a UAE driving license?

You are eligible to convert your foreign driving license if your country is part of the UAE Driving License Exchange Program and you hold a valid driving license from that country. Additionally, you must be a Dubai resident with a valid residency visa and Emirates ID to proceed with the conversion.

What if my country is not part of the UAE Driving License Exchange Program?

If your country is not included in the exchange program, you will need to apply for a UAE driving license from scratch. This involves enrolling in a driving school, completing the required classes, and passing the RTA driving tests. Contact any RTA-approved driving school for assistance with this process.

Is it mandatory to translate my foreign driving license into Arabic?

Yes, it is mandatory to translate your foreign driving license into Arabic if you are converting it to a UAE driving license. This can be done through any legal translation service in Dubai and is an essential step in the conversion process.

Where can I open a traffic file, and what is required for it?

You can open a traffic file at any RTA Happiness Centre or RTA Registration Centre in Dubai. To open the file, you will need your Emirates ID and a valid residency visa. This is the first step in the process of converting your driving license.

What should I do after completing my eye test?

Once your eye test is completed at an RTA-authorized optician, ensure that the results are sent to the RTA system. After this, you can visit an RTA Happiness Centre with your Emirates ID and translated driving license.