What is a classic car and how to register one in the UAE

The presence of a classic car that is well taken care of is enough to get a true automobile enthusiast’s heart racing. People have different takes on what makes a classic car. For this article, we will talk about the strict definition of a classic car. It is important to learn the meaning and classes of classic cars as it can affect the registration process. From there, we will discuss the full process of having a classic car registered in the UAE. From the requirements needed to the step-by-step process of registering your classic, we’ve got you covered.

A classic car is defined as any car that is more than 30 years old. A special registration system is in place for these cars in the UAE. With the help of these rules, classic cars can now be registered for use on UAE roads, with certain limitations depending on the car’s specifications. If they pass safety standards, they can be used on UAE roads to different degrees.

There are 6 categories of classic cars as agreed by the Road and Transport Authority (RTA). The categories are as follows:

Category A- These cars can be driven on all UAE roads for a maximum of 10,000 kilometers per year. Cars built from 1950 onwards are classified here.

Category B- These cars can be driven on all UAE roads for a maximum of 5,000 kilometers per year. Cars built before 1950 are classified here.

Category C- These cars cannot be driven on the streets of Dubai due to their speed limitations. This is because some Dubai roadways mandate a minimum speed limit of 60km/h.

Category D- These cars can only be driven during daytime because their night driving equipment (particularly the headlights) are insufficient for safe driving.

Category E- These cars can only be used on internal and service roads.

Category F- These cars can only be used for display.

For a classic car to be registered for use on UAE roads, a prior inspection of the car by the RTA must be done. The inspection will cover multiple parts, from their standard safety equipment present to the overall condition of the car.

Rules governing importation of cars apply if the car is shipped from a different country. The results of the inspection would help determine if the car is roadworthy enough to be used in the UAE and what category they would be classified.

Once the car is successfully inspected, registration papers can then be filed. After the registration, a special license plate customized to fit your car is provided to formalize its classic car status on UAE roads. With this rule, legends of automotive world can now go out on the streets of UAE, provided they pass certain roadworthiness standards.

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