How to Get a Dubai Driving Licence: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a driving licence in Dubai isn’t complicated, but the process can feel unclear if you’re unfamiliar with the system. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) sets clear requirements covering eligibility, eye testing, training, and staged assessments. This guide breaks down each step so you know exactly what’s needed — from opening your driving file to receiving your licence card.

1. Confirm Eligibility

Before starting lessons, make sure you meet the core requirements:

• Residency: A valid Dubai residence visa is essential.
• Minimum age: For light vehicles, you must be at least 18 years old.
• Medical fitness: An eye test from an RTA-approved centre is required, and some applicants may need additional checks for medical conditions.

2. Collect the Required Documents

Having the right paperwork ready avoids delays:

• Passport with residence visa copy
• Emirates ID (original and copy)
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Eye-test certificate from an approved optician
• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor, if requested

3. Register with an RTA-Approved Driving School

Only schools authorised by the RTA can train and present students for testing. First Driving Centre (FDC) is one of these centres.

When you enrol, the school opens your driving file with the RTA and guides you through the process, including lesson scheduling and test bookings.

Why FDC?

• Multiple Languages
• KHDA Approved
• AI Simulators
• Smart Yard Technology
• Paperless Documentation
• Pick & Drop Facility
• UITP & ROSPA Member
• Human-First Philosophy
• Customised Packages Available

4. Complete Theory Lessons and Pass the Knowledge Test

After registration, you’ll attend theory sessions — either in person or online — covering:

• UAE traffic laws and road signs
• Defensive driving techniques
• Hazard awareness and safe driving strategies

Once prepared, you’ll sit the RTA Theory Test, usually taken on a touchscreen in English, Arabic, or other approved languages.

5. Undertake Practical Driving Lessons

With theory out of the way, you’ll move to on-road training with a qualified instructor. Lessons typically include:

• Driving in city traffic and on highways
• Parking (parallel, garage, and angle)
• Emergency stops and turning safely
• Night driving, where applicable

Driving schools often run internal parking or “yard” assessments to check progress before booking your official tests.

6. Pass the RTA Assessments

To qualify for a licence, you need to complete three RTA assessments:

1. Theory Test – confirms your understanding of rules and signs
2. Parking/Yard Test – evaluates manoeuvring and parking skills
3. Road Test – an examiner observes your driving in real traffic

If you pass all three and pay the final fees, your licence is issued immediately.

7. Understand Costs and Timelines

Fees vary depending on how many lessons you require and whether you pass each test on the first attempt. For most beginners, the total cost for lessons, tests, and licence issuance falls between AED 3,000 and AED 7,000.

The timeline depends on your progress: some learners complete everything in a few weeks, while others need longer if they book extra lessons or retake tests.

8. Special Cases and Conversions

• Licence conversion: Drivers from certain countries may exchange their licences or follow a shorter process without full training.

• Learners with special requirements: Dubai offers adapted training vehicles and customised courses for People of Determination. FDC can arrange these if you provide an appropriate medical report.

9. Support from First Driving Centre

At First Driving Centre, you benefit from:

• Multiple course packages tailored to different schedules and experience levels
• Professional instructors with a clear focus on RTA standards
• Assistance with paperwork, test appointments, and preparation
• Special course for People of Determination

FDC’s structured approach ensures that each step — from opening your driving file to passing the road test — is handled efficiently.

Final Words

Obtaining a driving licence in Dubai is a planned series of lessons, tests, and formalities rather than a single appointment. By approaching it step by step, and working with a top driving centre such as First Driving Centre, you can complete the process confidently and meet the RTA’s standards without unnecessary delays.