UAE Driving Licence Conversion: 57 Eligible Countries and RTA Process Simplified for 2026
Dubai: For expatriates arriving in the UAE, obtaining a local driving licence is often a priority, facilitating easier mobility across the country. While most expatriates must undergo driving school and pass both theory and practical tests, residents from certain countries may bypass these requirements entirely.
The UAE’s driving licence exchange system allows eligible residents to convert their existing licences into UAE licences without the need for driving lessons or examinations, provided they meet specific criteria established by the relevant licensing authority. This service is accessible through the Ministry of Interior’s ‘Markhoos’ initiative and local licensing bodies, including Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
Eligibility Criteria for Licence Exchange
To successfully convert a foreign driving licence into a UAE driving licence, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Possess a valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID.
- Hold a valid driving licence issued by an approved country.
- Meet the minimum age requirement for the vehicle category.
- Pass an eye test conducted by an approved optical centre.
- Provide any additional documentation required based on nationality.
Countries Eligible for Direct Licence Exchange
As of January 2026, the RTA confirmed that driving licences from 57 countries are eligible for conversion to UAE licences. This list is subject to updates through bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding. The eligible countries include:
- GCC Countries
- Albania
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Britain
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Cyprus
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Holland
- Hong Kong
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- New Zealand
- Norway
- People’s Republic of China
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Serbia
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- The Republic of Montenegro
- Turkey
- United States of America
Steps to Exchange Your Licence in Dubai
Residents of Dubai can initiate the application process online through RTA channels or by visiting an RTA Customer Happiness Centre.
Step 1: Eye Test
Applicants must first complete an eye test at an RTA-approved optical centre. Most optical shops display stickers indicating their approval, making them easy to identify. The results of the eye test will be uploaded into the RTA system.
Cost: The fee for the eye test typically ranges from AED 100 to AED 150, depending on the outlet.
Step 2: Document Preparation
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Legal Arabic translation of the driving licence, if required.
- Eye test certificate (usually uploaded electronically).
- Passport-sized photograph, if requested.
Step 3: Application Submission
The application can be submitted at an RTA Customer Happiness Centre or online by following these steps:
- Visit the RTA service portal.
- Click on ‘Start service’ and enter your Emirates ID, passport, or UAE PASS details.
- Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- If logged in via UAE PASS, your details may auto-fill; otherwise, enter your full name, email address, and mobile number.
- Upload the required documents and submit the application.
Upon submission, a reference number will be issued. Once the application is approved, an SMS will be sent to pay the licence fees through the RTA website.
To complete the process, log back into your account, navigate to ‘Licensing Services’, and select ‘Driving Licence’. You can choose to receive a digital copy or a physical card. Options for physical delivery include:
- Self-service machines (locations available on the RTA website).
- Standard delivery: AED 20.
- Same-day delivery: AED 35.
- Delivery within 2 hours: AED 50.
- International delivery: AED 50.
After payment, the UAE driving licence will be issued and delivered according to the selected method.
Process for Abu Dhabi and Other Emirates
Residents in Abu Dhabi can apply through the Abu Dhabi Mobility platform or the Abu Dhabi Government Services platform. For other emirates, applications can be made via the Ministry of Interior website or through the ‘MOI UAE’ app. The basic requirements for licence conversion remain consistent across the UAE.
For further details, refer to the original source: www.emirates247.com.
Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.
Published on 2026-06-02 18:19:00 • By the Editorial Desk
