The Ultimate Guide to UAE Driving License Conversion (2026 Edition)

Wednesday, 28 January 2026| Dubai, UAE [ Posted at 3:02 pm ]

If you’re living in the UAE, having a UAE driving license is more than just a convenience; it’s often a necessity. The good news? For many expats, UAE Driving License Conversion is far easier, faster, and cheaper than starting from scratch. This guide breaks down everything you need to know. 

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What Is UAE Driving License Conversion?

Overview: UAE Driving License Conversion is an official service that allows residents to exchange a valid foreign driving license from approved countries for a UAE driving license.

Instead of enrolling in months of driving classes and multiple tests, eligible applicants can simply submit documents, pass an eye test, pay fees, and receive their UAE driving license — often within the same day.

Why this matters:

• Saves time (no driving school)
• Saves money
• Eliminates unnecessary road tests
• Ideal for expats relocating for work or family

Why Do Expats Prefer UAE Driving License Conversion?

Overview: Most expats choose conversion because it’s efficient, affordable, and avoids the stress of UAE driving schools.

Key reasons people convert instead of applying fresh:

• No Testing Required: Residents from more than 50 nations (including the US, UK, Canada, and most of Europe) can convert their licenses without attending driving school or taking theory and road tests.
• Cost & Time Efficiency: It avoids the expensive and long process of obtaining a new license from scratch.
• Legal Requirement & Mobility: Once residency is granted, an International Driving Permit (IDP) or foreign license is invalid for long-term driving.
• Simplified Process: The conversion can be completed at RTA centres, often requiring only an eye test, the original license, and a translation if necessary.
• Expanded Eligibility: The Markhoos initiative has made it easier for a broader range of nationalities to exchange their licenses, providing smoother integration. 

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Cost comparison at a glance:

For most eligible residents, conversion is the smarter choice.

Who Can Apply for a UAE Driving License Conversion?

Overview: Eligibility depends on your country of license issuance, visa status, and emirate of residence.

Basic eligibility criteria include:

• Valid UAE residence visa
• Minimum age 18 (reduced to 17 from March 29, 2025)
• Valid foreign driving license
• license category must match (car, bike, etc.)
• Successful eye test

If your license is expired or from a non-approved country, conversion won’t apply.

Nationalities Eligible for Hassle-Free UAE Driving License Conversion

Overview: The UAE has agreements with 52+ countries, allowing direct conversion without road tests. 

Europe

• UK
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Netherlands
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Austria
• Belgium
• Denmark
• Finland
• Norway
• Poland
• Romania
• Greece
  

Asia & Oceania

• Japan
• South Korea
• Singapore
• Hong Kong
• Australia
• New Zealand
  

North America

• United States
• Canada
  

GCC Countries

• Saudi Arabia
• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• Qatar
• Oman
  

Africa

• South Africa

It is important to note that South Korean citizens can convert their licenses only after becoming residents. 

Documents Required for UAE Driving License Conversion

Overview: Document preparation is simple, but accuracy is crucial.

Mandatory documents that you should prepare include:

• Original foreign driving license
• Emirates ID
• Valid residence visa
• Eye test report (RTA/MOI approved)

Additional documents (if applicable):

• Legal Arabic translation of the license
• Consulate or embassy verification
• Knowledge test result (Singapore license holders)
• Road test result (special cases)

Step-by-Step UAE Driving License Conversion Process 

Overview: Learn everything to apply driving license conversion. 

Here are the steps to apply for the driving license conversion in the UAE: 

Step 1: Eye Test

You should visit any  RTA-approved optical centre, driving institutes, and Customer Happiness Centres. However, the cost will be AED 140 to 180. Results are uploaded directly to the system

Step 2: Submit Application

You can apply via the RTA website, app, or customer happiness centre by uploading documents and license details. 

Step 3: Verification

Next, you should submit your original license to a Customer Happiness Centre for verification or withdrawal (based on nationality). Remember, the original license may be:

• Returned after scanning, or
• Withdrawn permanently (for some countries)

Step 4: Pay Fees

You can submit the payment via credit/debit card or digital wallets. 

Step 5: Receive a UAE Driving License

Digital license issued instantly. You can request the physical card via: 

• Self-service machine
• Home delivery (AED 20–50)

UAE Driving License Conversion Fees Breakdown

Overview: Fees are transparent and regulated.

Total average cost: AED 800–1,050

Special Case: Singapore Driving License Conversion

Overview: Singapore licenses require a knowledge test, not a road test.

Singapore drivers must pass the RTA Knowledge Test, which covers UAE traffic rules and regulations. This test is a mandatory step, usually booked through an RTA-approved driving institute in the UAE. 

It is a theory test covering road rules. You may need to answer a set number of questions. Additional cost for this test includes: 

• Training file: AED 200
• Knowledge test: AED 400
• Learning application: AED 100
  

Still far cheaper than starting fresh.

UAE Driving License Conversion in Other Emirates

Overview: Each emirate follows federal rules but has different authorities.

Key authorities include:

• Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Police
• Sharjah & Northern Emirates: MOI / Local Police
• Ajman, RAK, Fujairah: MOI portals

Fees and documents remain largely consistent.

Common Scams to Avoid During License Conversion

Overview: Scammers target new expats unfamiliar with the system.

Common scams during UAE driving license conversion include fraudulent agents promising guaranteed, fast-tracked, or “skip-the-test” services. Common scams include: 

• Forged Documents & Licenses: Scammers offer to create fake or altered documents to fit the 50-country direct exchange list.
• Overcharging/Hidden Fees: Requesting excessive, upfront, or unlisted fees for services that should be low-cost and direct.
• Fake International Driving Permits (IDP): Scammers sell worthless IDPs as a substitute for the official UAE conversion process.
• Identity Theft via Processors: Fraudsters demand original IDs, passports, and personal details, then use them to commit financial fraud or identity theft. 

Golden rule: Always apply via RTA, MOI, or authorised driving institutes only.

Do’s and Don’ts as a Driver in the UAE

Overview: Strict enforcement means ignorance isn’t an excuse.

Do’s:

• Always carry your UAE driving license
• Follow speed limits (radars everywhere)
• Use indicators and seat belts
• Respect pedestrian crossings
  

Don’ts:

• No mobile phone usage while driving
• No tailgating
• Zero tolerance for drink-driving
• Avoid aggressive driving (heavy fines + black points)

Validity of the UAE Driving License

Overview: Validity depends on age.

Here’s a glance at the validity: 

• Under 21 years: 1 year
• 21 years & above: 2 years

After expiry, you can easily apply for renewal. 

FAQs: UAE Driving License Conversion

Final Thoughts

If you’re eligible, UAE Driving License Conversion is one of the smartest administrative decisions you’ll make after moving to the UAE. It saves money, time, and unnecessary stress, while giving you legal access to one of the world’s best road infrastructures.

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