Whether you buy a new or used car, registration is mandatory before you drive it around Dubai. The Road and Transport Authority (RTA) strives to make the process simple and straightforward for everyone. You just need to take care of the prerequisites and follow a few simple steps.
Today, we will take you through the car registration process for new and used cars in Dubai and discuss the costs associated with the process.
How to Get Your New Car Registered in Dubai
If you plan on buying a new car of your choice, the dealer will usually get the registration paperwork done before handing over the keys. However, if that isn’t the case for any reason, registering new cars in Dubai is pretty convenient even when you are doing it yourself.
Mandatory Documents for New Car Registration in Dubai
To register a brand new car in Dubai, you need the following documents:
- Customs certificate or electronic customs certificate
- Original Emirates ID to update the information
- Electronic vehicle pass certificate (if the vehicle was inspected outside Dubai, used, or imported from a source other than the local dealer)
- Gulf specification conformity form (UAE standards test) if the vehicle was not compliant with GCC specifications
- Electronic insurance from the vehicle’s insurer, valid for more than 6 months
Applying for Car Registration via RTA Website or Customer Happiness Centres
After sorting out the car registration documents, visit any RTA-approved Customer Happiness Centres or testing centres like Tasjeel, Wasel, or Mumayaz. Submit the required documents and pay the necessary service fees.
For those using the RTA website to apply, here’s what you need to do:
- Log in: Use UAE Pass or sign in to your RTA website account.
- Apply and Upload Documents: Start your application and upload the necessary documents.
- Confirm with UAE Pass: Verify your customer ID using UAE Pass.
- Pay the Fee: Complete the process by paying the required fee.
- Receive Documents: You will receive the new vehicle licence card (Mulkiya), car number plate, and vehicle expiry stickers.
RTA New Car Registration Fees
The RTA car registration fees for new vehicles are as follows:
- AED 400 to register a light vehicle (private/public)
- AED 500 for private vehicles (3-12 tonnes)
- AED 750 for public vehicles (3-12 tonnes)
- AED 35 for a short plate
- AED 50 for a long plate
- AED 200 for Dubai branded plate
- AED 100 for Expo branded plate
- AED 100 for the expiry sticker fee
- AED 20+ for the knowledge and innovation fee
- AED 150 for the vehicle inspection fee for new cars
How to Get a Used Car Registered in Dubai
There is a massive demand for used cars in Dubai. To register a second-hand car, the following documents are required:
- Traffic file
- Valid Vehicle Technical Inspection Certificate
- Vehicle Insurance with electronic test
- Original Emirates ID of the buyer and seller
- A copy of the buyer’s residence visa
- A copy of the buyer’s passport
- Vehicle licence or Mulkiya from the seller
Cost of Used Car Registration in Dubai
The cost of second-hand car registration in Dubai is AED 420. Other necessary expenses include:
- Vehicle inspection test: AED 170
- Traffic file (if it does not exist): AED 220
- Transfer of ownership fee: AED 350
- Selling fee: AED 50
- Knowledge and innovation fee: AED 20
Car Registration Renewal in Dubai
Your car registration in Dubai needs renewal every year. Vehicle owners generally get a grace period of one month after the registration expires – but after that, additional fees will be charged.
Steps to Renew Car Registration in Dubai
- Settle all pending fines against your car.
- If your car has any black points, visit any Dubai Police station to settle them.
- If your car is over 3 years old, get it tested from an approved RTA testing facility.
- If your car does not clear the technical inspection stage, make the required repairs and re-test it.
- Once cleared, apply for the car renewal registration process in Dubai.
Car Registration Renewal Fees in Dubai
Vehicle registration renewal charges in Dubai are:
- Renewal fees: AED 380
- Vehicle Technical Inspection charges (if required): AED 170
- Courier service charges: AED 25
- Late fine: AED 25 (per month after passing the grace period)
FAQs About Car Registration in Dubai
What is the cost of registering a new car in Dubai?
The cost for registering a brand new car in Dubai is AED 400.
What is the cost for registering a used car in Dubai?
The cost for registering a used car in Dubai is AED 420.
Is there any grace period for car registration in the UAE?
Yes, drivers get a grace period of 30 days to renew their vehicle’s registration after the expiry date has passed.
Can people register several cars under their name in Dubai?
Yes, there is no limit to the number of cars registered in an individual’s name.
Conclusion
We’ve explained the process of registering brand new cars, used cars, and car renewals in Dubai in simple terms. Registration of both new and used cars in Dubai is quite simple if you have all the documents prepared. We hope this guide helped you understand all the requirements and prepare accordingly.
For more information on laws and regulations regarding car buying and selling, stay tuned to the UAE’s top auto blog.
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