How to Obtain a Driving License in Dubai
The process typically takes about three months. Your license will be issued immediately after passing the test that qualifies you to drive in Dubai.
There are five driving schools where you can obtain your license in Dubai. To begin the licensing process at any of these schools, you will need to follow these steps:
Documentation
- Original passport and two passport-sized photos
- Valid residence visa in Dubai and two copies
- Original Emirates ID and a copy
- Eight passport-sized photos
- Certificate from an eye test center recognized by the chosen driving school
- No objection letter from your sponsor
Regulations
You can start driving lessons when you reach the age of 17 years and 6 months, but you won't receive your license until you turn 18, even if you pass the test at 17. If you do not hold any previous driving license, you must complete 40 lessons, each lasting half an hour, along with mandatory lectures and theoretical tests.
The Five Driving Schools in Dubai
- Al Ahli Driving School – 043411500
- Belhasa Driving School – 043243535
- Dubai Driving Center – 043255855
- Emirates Driving Institute – 042631100
- Al Ghandi Driving School – 042676166
Cost
The cost of the course varies slightly between schools, but they are generally similar. A standard course that includes all exams and 40 lessons costs between AED 5,000 – 6,000. If you prefer the same course as a VIP experience, it will cost between AED 15,000 – 17,000. While I’m not sure if you will take the test in a Rolls Royce, I don’t see that as the best option.
The Process
- Complete an eye test.
- Bring all documents to a driving school.
- Pay for the course, and they will handle your paperwork.
- Obtain a training license that allows you to drive the training car with an instructor. This license is only for training vehicles, not for regular cars.
- Once you complete these steps, you will receive your license within a few weeks.
Details
Theoretical Test
You need to bring two passport-sized photos and AED 200. The test consists of 35 questions about road signs, hazards, and safety. The first part has 17 questions focusing on general driving topics, and you must answer at least 11 correctly. The second part consists of 18 questions specific to the license, requiring at least 12 correct answers to pass. The final section is a hazard perception test, which includes 5 videos where you must press a button when you see a danger or hazardous situation.
Practical Test
You will select an appointment to go to the center with your passport, driving file, and two photos. You will fill out a statement and pay a fee ranging from AED 200-300. When your name is called, you will go to the designated car and have two minutes to demonstrate your driving ability. If you pass, you will return to the center with your stamped file, then proceed to the photo department, and your license will be ready in a few minutes.
If you do not pass the test, you will need to attend at least seven additional lessons before scheduling another appointment for the next test, repeating the same steps.
