Getting a Dubai driving licence is one of the most valuable steps for Indians moving to the UAE for work or residence. Whether you want to become a professional driver, improve your job opportunities, or simply drive your own car, the process is clear and well-organized. This guide explains how Indians can apply for a Dubai driving licence in 2025, including documents, fees, steps, and eligibility.
Overview Table
| Category | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years | For light vehicles |
| Required Classes | Theory + Practical Training | Mandatory for new learners |
| Total Cost | AED 4,000–7,000 | Depends on institute & attempts |
| Test Types | Theory, Yard Test, Road Test | All must be passed |
| Processing Time | 30–60 days | Faster if you train regularly |
| Issued By | RTA Dubai | Valid across UAE |
What Indians Need to Apply for a Driving Licence in Dubai
Indians must register at an RTA-approved driving school and complete training hours before taking the tests. Here are the requirements in simple words:
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 years or older
- Should have a valid Emirates ID
- Must be a UAE resident (with valid visa)
- For Indians with a valid Indian licence, some steps may reduce (lessons may be fewer)
Documents Required
To apply for a Dubai driving licence, Indians must prepare:
- Original Emirates ID
- Passport + Valid UAE Residence Visa
- Eye Test Report (from RTA-approved optical center)
- Passport-size photos
- Indian Driving Licence (if available, to reduce training hours)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer (for some nationalities; rarely required now)
Step-by-Step Process: How Indians Can Apply for Dubai Driving Licence
1. Complete the Eye Test
Your first step is to take an RTA-approved eye test at an optical shop like:
- Al Jaber Optical
- Yateem Optician
- Aster Optical
Cost: AED 140–180.
2. Register at an RTA-Approved Driving School
Some top driving schools in Dubai include:
- Dubai Driving Center
- Emirates Driving Institute
- Galadari Driving School
- Belhasa Driving Center
Here, you will:
- Submit documents
- Pay initial fees
- Receive RTA learner permit
- Pick training schedule (evening/morning)
3. Attend Theory Classes
All new Indian applicants must attend theory classes either online or offline. Topics include:
- Traffic rules
- Road signs
- Safe driving
- RTA regulations
- Risk awareness
After completing this, you must take the RTA Theory Test.
4. Pass the RTA Theory Test
This is a computer-based exam with around 35 multiple-choice questions.
Topics include:
- UAE road signs
- Driving safety
- Hazard response
You must score at least 75% to pass.
5. Attend Practical Yard Training
Also known as parking training, which includes:
- Garage parking
- Slope test
- Angle parking
- Parallel parking
- Emergency braking
After training, you will appear for the Yard Parking Test.
6. Pass the Yard (Parking) Test
This test is automated and evaluates your parking skills. Passing it allows you to move to road training.
7. Attend Road Driving Lessons
You will complete 10–40 hours depending on:
- Previous driving experience
- Indian licence validity
- Training performance
Road lessons include:
- Highway driving
- City traffic driving
- Roundabouts
- Lane changing
- Emergency handling
8. Pass the RTA Road Test
This is the final and most important step.
The examiner checks:
- Lane discipline
- Speed control
- Mirror checking
- Safety awareness
- Overall confidence
If you pass, you move to the licence issuance stage.
9. Collect Your Driving Licence
After passing, submit documents at RTA or through the driving school and receive your Dubai driving licence within minutes.
Validity:
- 10 years for UAE residents
- 5 years for non-GCC expatriates
Cost Breakdown for Dubai Driving Licence (2025)
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Eye Test | 140–180 |
| Theory Classes | 500–700 |
| Practical & Yard Training | 3,000–5,000 |
| RTA Tests (Theory + Yard + Road) | 400–600 |
| Licence Issuance Fee | 320–350 |
Total Approx Cost: AED 4,000 – 7,000
Costs increase if you fail and reattempt any test.
Time Frame for Completion
Most Indians finish the process in:
- 30–45 days (regular training)
- 20–30 days (intensive training)
If you fail multiple attempts, it may take longer.
Benefits of Getting a Dubai Driving Licence
- Higher salary in many jobs (driver, logistics, delivery, technician roles)
- Easier travel around the UAE
- Valuable for career improvement
- Accepted in many other countries for licence conversion
Important Tips for Indian Applicants
- Always attend classes regularly
- Practice more parking; yard test is tricky
- Follow road rules strictly during test
- Do not rush lane changing during the final test
- Keep calm and maintain confidence
FAQs
Q1. Can Indians convert their Indian driving licence directly in Dubai?
No, Indians must take training and tests as conversion is not allowed.
Q2. How long does it take to get a driving licence in Dubai?
Usually 30–60 days, depending on training speed and test performance.
Q3. What is the minimum cost for a Dubai driving licence?
The minimum cost starts from AED 4,000, and may increase with reattempts.