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How to Get a Driver’s License in Dubai in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide
Dubai’s road network is one of the most advanced in the world, making it a dream for drivers. Whether you’re a resident or an expat looking to drive in the city, obtaining a driver’s license is a crucial step. In 2025, Dubai has streamlined its licensing process, making it easier and more efficient. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your driver’s license in Dubai.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the basic requirements:
If you hold a valid driver’s license from certain approved countries (e.g., USA, UK, Australia, Germany), you may be eligible for a direct license transfer without taking driving lessons or tests.
Step 2: Enroll in a Driving School
Dubai has several RTA-approved driving institutes, including:
Register with an institute, submit your Emirates ID, passport copy, visa copy, and eye test results. You must also pay a registration fee, which varies depending on the package you choose.
Step 3: Complete the Eye Test
An RTA-approved optical center will conduct an eye test to ensure you meet the required vision standards. Your test results will be linked to your driving file.
Step 4: Take Theory Classes & Pass the RTA Theory Test
You’ll need to attend theory classes (online or in-person) covering:
After completing the course, you must pass the RTA theory test, which consists of 35 multiple-choice questions. A minimum score of 80% is required to pass.
Step 5: Practical Driving Lessons
Once you pass the theory test, you’ll start practical driving lessons. The number of lessons depends on your previous driving experience:
During these lessons, you’ll learn parking techniques, road driving, and handling various traffic conditions.
Step 6: Internal Assessments & Yard Test
Your driving school will conduct internal assessments before allowing you to take the official RTA yard test, which evaluates your ability to:
Passing the yard test qualifies you for road training.
Step 7: Road Test & Final RTA Exam
Once your instructor deems you ready, you’ll take the final RTA road test, where an examiner will assess your driving skills in real traffic conditions. If you pass, you will receive your driver’s license immediately.
If you fail, you’ll need additional lessons before reattempting the test.
Step 8: Get Your License
Once you pass the test, you’ll receive a temporary driving license, which will later be upgraded to a permanent UAE driving license valid for 2 to 10 years, depending on your visa status.
Cost of Getting a Driver’s License in Dubai
The total cost varies based on the driving school and the number of lessons needed. On average, expect to pay between AED 4,000 - AED 7,000, covering:
Conclusion
Getting a driver’s license in Dubai is a structured yet straightforward process in 2025. Whether you’re a new driver or converting an existing license, following these steps will help you obtain your license efficiently.
If you’re looking for a used car in Dubai after getting your license, explore the best deals on Auto Trader UAE at www.autotraders.ae.
