Getting a driving licence in Dubai is one of the most important steps for new residents, job seekers, and beginners who want to drive legally in the UAE. But many people don’t know the total cost, hidden fees, and updated structure for 2025. This guide gives you a complete Dubai Driving Licence Total Cost in 2025, including training cost, test fees, institute charges, and additional expenses for beginners.
This 800-word breakdown includes tables, cost comparisons, tips to reduce fees, and FAQs.
Overview Table
| Cost Category | Price Range (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Test | 150 – 180 | Mandatory before opening file |
| File Opening & RTA Fees | 800 – 1,200 | Includes registration + admin |
| Training Package | 3,000 – 5,000 | Depends on school & hours |
| Tests (Theory + Yard + Road) | 400 – 700 | Paid per attempt |
| Licence Issuance Fee | 320 – 350 | One-time fee |
| Total Estimated Cost | 4,500 – 7,500 | Increases if test is failed |
1. Introduction: Why You Must Know the Cost Before Applying
The cost of obtaining a driving licence in Dubai depends on:
- Your previous driving experience
- Choice of driving school
- Number of test attempts
- Whether you choose regular or VIP training
- Weekday vs weekend classes
Beginners usually pay more because they need maximum training hours. Understanding the full cost helps you plan better and avoid surprises.
2. Full Cost Breakdown for Dubai Driving Licence 2025
Below is the detailed cost for each stage of the licence process.
1. Eye Test Cost (AED 150 – 180)
Before you can register with any institute, you must clear an RTA-approved eye test.
Places include:
- Aster Optical
- Yateem Optician
- Al Jaber Optical
This is a one-time cost, valid until you get your licence.
2. RTA File Opening Charges (AED 200 – 300)
When you register with a driving school, you must pay file opening fees, which cover:
- RTA registration
- Data management
- Learning permit issuance
This is mandatory for all applicants.
3. Theory Classes Cost (AED 500 – 800)
Beginner drivers must complete theory lessons covering:
- Traffic signs
- UAE road rules
- Hazard perception
- Safe driving techniques
Classes can be taken online or physically at the institute.
4. Practical Training Cost (AED 2,500 – 4,000)
For beginners, this is the biggest portion of the total cost.
Factors affecting the price:
- Driving school (EDI, Galadari, Belhasa, Dubai Driving Center)
- Regular vs rush classes
- Weekday vs weekend schedule
- Number of hours required (20–40 hours)
VIP packages can go above AED 8,000, but beginners usually choose regular plans.
5. Test Fees Breakdown (AED 400 – 700 Total)
Applicants must take 3 mandatory RTA tests:
1. Theory Test
Cost: AED 120 – 150
2. Yard Parking Test
Cost: AED 80 – 120
3. Final Road Test
Cost: AED 300 – 350
If you fail, you must pay again for each reattempt, which increases the total cost.
6. Licence Issuance Fee (AED 320 – 350)
After passing the final test, you will pay the licence issuance fee.
This includes:
- Card printing
- Processing
- RTA service charge
You receive your licence the same day.
3. Total Cost for Beginners (2025)
| Applicant Type | Total Cost Range (AED) |
|---|---|
| Complete Beginner | 4,500 – 7,500 |
| Beginner with weekend classes | 5,000 – 8,000 |
| Beginner with VIP package | 8,000 – 14,000 |
| Experienced driver with foreign licence | 2,500 – 4,000 |
Beginners usually pay the highest because they need full training hours and more attempts.
4. Hidden & Additional Costs to Know
Many beginners are unaware of these extra charges:
1. Retest Fees
Failing a test means paying again:
- Road test retake: AED 300+
- Yard test retake: AED 80–120
- Theory retake: AED 120+
2. Extra Training Lessons
If you fail multiple times, the school may require additional classes (AED 150–200 per class).
3. Weekend or Night Classes
These usually cost extra due to higher demand.
4. VIP or Fast-Track Training
Special one-on-one courses add AED 3,000 – 7,000 to the total.
5. Tips to Reduce Your Driving Licence Cost in Dubai
1. Avoid Failing Any Test
Every failure adds new fees and more classes. Aim to pass in the first attempt.
2. Choose a Weekday Training Slot
Weekend classes are more expensive.
3. Don’t Pick VIP Packages (unless needed)
Regular packages are enough for most beginners.
4. Practice Parking More
Parking and slope tests cause most failures.
5. Use Online Theory Materials
This helps you pass the theory test on the first try.
6. Why Beginners Pay More Than Experienced Drivers
Beginners must complete:
- More training hours
- More practice
- More tests
- More supervised driving
Whereas experienced drivers may get:
- Reduced training
- Fewer hours
- Lower costs
This makes the beginner cost naturally higher.
7. Driving School Cost Comparison (General Range)
| Driving School | Cost Range (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates Driving Institute | 4,500 – 7,500 | Most popular |
| Galadari Driving School | 4,200 – 7,000 | Affordable |
| Belhasa Driving Center | 4,300 – 7,200 | Good fleet |
| Dubai Driving Center | 4,500 – 7,400 | Premium |
Actual cost varies by package, timings, and attempts.
8. Final Thoughts
The total cost for a Dubai driving licence in 2025 varies depending on your training hours, test performance, and driving school. Beginners should budget at least AED 4,500 – 7,500, but with careful planning and first-attempt success, you can save hundreds of dirhams.
FAQs
Q1. What is the minimum cost for a Dubai driving licence for beginners in 2025?
Around AED 4,500, including all basic fees.
Q2. Why do beginners pay more for a Dubai licence?
They require full training hours and more supervised practice.
Q3. Does failing a test increase the total cost?
Yes—each failed attempt adds extra test and training fees.