How to Apply for a Driving License in Abu Dhabi | Fee, Eligibility & Process
Embarking on the journey to obtain your driving licence in Abu Dhabi opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you're a resident eager to explore the city or a newcomer seeking the freedom of mobility, the process can initially appear daunting. This informative guide by Cars24 will navigate you through the necessary steps, requirements, and essential information to streamline your application process.
By obtaining your driving licence, you'll be free to explore Abu Dhabi's iconic landmarks, stunning landscapes, and vibrant neighbourhoods at your own pace. Our comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know, including eligibility criteria, required documents, examination procedures, and helpful tips to excel in the mandatory tests. Let's rev up and get started.
Eligibility Criteria For Abu Dhabi Driving Licence
Before you can steer your way through the city's charming streets, you must meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining a driving licence. You can apply for an Abu Dhabi driving licence if you are medically fit and above the legal age. So, let's dive into the eligibility criteria and pave your path towards driving freedom in Abu Dhabi.
- You must be a registered citizen of the UAE.
- You must be at least 18 to drive a car or light vehicle.
- You must be 17 or older if you want a motorcycle licence.
- For those aspiring to acquire a commercial driving licence for heavy vehicles such as trucks or tractors, a minimum age of 20 years is required.
- Individuals wishing to obtain a commercial bus driving licence must be at least 21 or older.
For Ex-pats Who Already Have a Driver's Licence
If you already have a valid driver's licence from any of these countries, you don't need to give another driving test in Abu Dhabi. You can walk into the nearest RTA office and submit the required documents. You can then drive your preferred vehicle onto the road without any hassle. More on that at the end of this guide.
Read More : How To Apply For Your Drivers License In UAE
Documents Required To Get Abu Dhabi Licence
Embarking on the journey to obtain your Abu Dhabi licence requires more than just fulfilling the eligibility criteria. It also entails gathering the necessary documents to validate your identity and ensure a smooth application process. Let's dive into the comprehensive list of required documents, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate this critical step towards confidently hitting the road.
- One crystal-clear, recent passport-size photograph
- The original and a photocopy of your passport to serve as proof of identity
- Your Emirates ID is an essential document for residents of the UAE
- The original and a photocopy of your foreign driving licence, if applicable
- A photocopy of a valid Abu Dhabi residency visa confirming your legal status in the city
- A No Objection Certificate from your employer or visa sponsor indicating their approval of your driving licence application
- An Arabic translation of your foreign driving licence (For ex-pats only)
Ensure your residency visa has at least six months of validity before applying for the UAE driving licence. After following the eligibility criteria and having the required documents, you must follow the process to get an Abu Dhabi driving licence.
Read More : How To Renew Your Indian International Driving License in The UAE?
How To Get Driving Licence In Abu Dhabi
To get your Abu Dhabi driving licence, you must go through several steps and fulfil some minimum criteria. You can follow our 7-step process to get your job done quickly.
Step 1: Undergo an Eye Test
To undergo an eye test, begin by visiting a licenced optician in Abu Dhabi recognised by the traffic and licensing department. It is imperative to bring along a valid Emirates ID during the examination.
- Associated Fee:
The eye test typically incurs a fee of AED 100.
Step 2: Initiate a Traffic File
To initiate the process, you can open a traffic file conveniently through the TAMM portal, the official Abu Dhabi Government services platform, or the Abu Dhabi Police mobile application. Both platforms offer online accessibility for creating your traffic file.
- Required Documents:
When applying through TAMM or Abu Dhabi Police, you must upload the following documents:
- Emirates ID
- Eye Test Certificate
- Personal Photo
- Applying through TAMM:
- Begin by visiting the official TAMM website at tamm.abudhabi
- On the homepage, navigate to the 'Vehicles and Transportation' category and select 'Driving Services'.
- Scroll down the page and click 'Request to Open a Driving Licence File'. Click on 'Start'.
- Log in using the UAE Pass, which serves as your authentication method.
- Select the type of licence you are applying for, such as a 'light motor vehicle' for a car's driving licence.
- Choose 'new' as the requested category.
- Select your preferred driving test centre, which includes branches of the Abu Dhabi Police Traffic and licensing department where your final driving test will occur. Additionally, indicate whether you prefer a manual or automatic transmission.
- The personal information section will automatically fill in since you used your UAE Pass account. It includes your full name, Emirates ID number and expiry date, nationality, Emirate of residence, date of birth, mobile number, and email address.
- Upload the necessary documents as per the requirements.
- Proceed to pay for opening a traffic file as indicated during the application process.
Read More : Renew your driving license in UAE: Step by Step Guide
Step 3: Ace the Theory Test and Complete Internal Practical Training
Once you have successfully opened your traffic file, it's time to visit the Emirate Driving Company (EDC) with your traffic file number. You will register for theory classes and the corresponding test at the EDC. Additionally, you will need to enrol in parking and yard training, known as internal practical training. Here are the required documents you need to carry:
- Traffic File Number
- Emirates ID
- Passport Copy
- Residency Visa Copy
- Latest Personal Photo
If you are 17, you will need your guardian's No Objection Certificate (NOC) for your Abu Dhabi driving licence. However, this requirement is not applicable if you are 18 or older.
Step 4: Secure a Road Test Date and Obtain a Training Permit
To begin your driving lessons, booking a road test date is essential. Here's how you can accomplish this through the TAMM portal:
- Visit this link.
- Log in using your UAE Pass credentials.
- Click on "Start" to initiate the process.
- Your personal information, automatically populated by your UAE Pass, will be displayed.
- Enter your traffic file number in the designated field.
- Confirm the chosen driving test location, as mentioned in Step 2.
- Complete the payment corresponding to the Abu Dhabi licence cost.
- You will receive an SMS shortly after confirming the scheduled driving test date and location.
You will also receive a training permit card upon successfully booking your driving test date. Once the road test is scheduled, you can commence your external practical training or external road training, which involves the practical driving classes you are required to undertake.
Step 5: Complete a Minimum of Six Hours of External Road Training
Following the previous steps, you must undergo at least six hours of driving classes. Several private companies within Abu Dhabi provide those classes, such as the Emirates Driving Company.
- Documents Required
- Traffic File Number
- Emirates ID
- Passport Copy
- Residency Visa Copy
- Personal Photo
- Training Permit
- Successful Completion of Theory Exam and Internal Practical Training
Step 6: Successfully Complete the Road Test
After completing the external road training, you will be required to visit the selected traffic licensing department branch in Abu Dhabi, as indicated during the opening of your traffic file. You will undergo the road test at this branch to assess your practical driving skills. Upon passing the road test, you can successfully claim your driver's licence.
Step 7: Obtain Your Driving licence
Once you have successfully passed the road test and met all the requirements, you can proceed to obtain your driving licence. There are two options available for collecting your driving licence:
There are two ways in which you will receive your driving licence:
- E-Driving Licence Card: An electronic version of your driving licence card will be sent to your registered email address or via SMS. RTA also lets you view the electronic version through the Abu Dhabi Police app.
- Physical Driving Licence Card: RTA issues the card within ten days after passing the road test. It will be available to collect from the designated collection point.
By following these steps, you will complete the road test and obtain your driving licence, enabling you to enjoy the freedom and privileges of driving in Abu Dhabi.
Read More : Best-in-class SUVs under AED 150,000
Best Driving Schools In Abu Dhabi
In a city where driving skills are paramount, these exceptional institutions stand out as beacons of quality education and road safety. From light vehicle mastery to handling heavy-duty rigs, these schools offer the finest training programs to equip you with the skills needed for success on the roads. Discover the driving schools that pave the way towards safer and more skilled drivers in Abu Dhabi.
Address: Sector # M34, Mussaffah Industrial Area, Mussaffah, Abu Dhabi, Landmark: Near Spencer Interiors LLC, Zip Code: 2943
Phone number: +971 2 5511911
Address: 6Q9G+XM3, Central District - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates, Zip Code: 15446
Phone number: +971 3 7643824
Address: near Royal Rotary Hotel Apartments, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, Zip Code: 15671
Phone number: +971 3 7656261
Address: 8GCP+56J, Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Shabiya 12, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +971 2 6727134
Address: Musaffah - M-11, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Zip Code: 71394
Contact No: +971 2 4432503, +971 2 4431883
UAE Licence Cost
Get ready to take the first step towards independence with the knowledge of what it takes to obtain your driver's licence and the associated costs involved. Let's dive into the details and pave your way to the open road. The breakdown of the expenses for obtaining a driver's licence in Abu Dhabi is as follows:
- Eye test: AED 100
- Traffic file opening: AED 100
- Theory training at EDC: Starting at AED 830 with an additional AED 50 for the test.
- Practical test fee: Varies based on skill level, number of classes, and chosen school. According to EDC, the estimated minimum cost for beginners is approximately AED 2,705.
- Training permit issuance: AED 100
- Practical driving test: AED 200
- Driving licence issuance: AED 315
- Conversion of driving licence to Emirati: AED 250
Disclaimer: Please note that the mentioned costs are subject to change based on individual student requirements.
Driver's Licence in Abu-Dhabi: If you don't have residency yet
Getting a driving UAE driving licence as a foreigner is almost the same as mentioned above. You must show proof of residence and other documents to get an Abu Dhabi driving licence. For foreigners residing in Abu Dhabi, you require the documents mentioned below.
- Emirates ID (copy and original)
- Passport with visa page (copy)
- Passport-size photos (minimum of 8)
- Eye test results
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor
By showing these documents to the Abu Dhabi traffic police department, you can quickly get legal permission to drive.
FAQs
How to Check Driving Licence Status Online in Abu Dhabi?
To check the status of your driving licence in Abu Dhabi online, visit the official website of the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport or the Emirates Driving Company. Enter the required details, such as your licence number or personal information, to retrieve your licence status.
How long does it take to get a driving licence in Abu Dhabi?
The duration to obtain a driving licence in Abu Dhabi may vary depending on various factors, including your progress, the UAE driving licence type, and the efficiency of the training process. It can take three to six months to complete the necessary training and assessments to obtain a driving licence in Abu Dhabi.
Is the RTA road test difficult?
The difficulty level of the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) road test can vary depending on individual skills, preparation, and confidence. The road test assesses your practical driving abilities, including maneuvering, following traffic rules, and demonstrating safe driving practices.
How many times can I fail the RTA road test?
There is no minimum number of attempts for the Abu Dhabi driving licence. However, clearing them as soon as possible is best to drive along UAE roads at your leisure.
How many questions are on the Abu Dhabi RTA theory test?
The number of questions on the Abu Dhabi RTA theory test may vary as the test is periodically updated. Generally, the theory test consists of multiple-choice questions that assess your knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, and driving regulations. It is advisable to study the official driver's handbook and practice sample tests to familiarise yourself with the content and format of the exam.
Embarking on the journey to obtain your driving licence in Abu Dhabi opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you're a resident eager to explore the city or a newcomer seeking the freedom of mobility, the process can initially appear daunting. This informative guide by Cars24 will navigate you through the necessary steps, requirements, and essential information to streamline your application process.
By obtaining your driving licence, you'll be free to explore Abu Dhabi's iconic landmarks, stunning landscapes, and vibrant neighbourhoods at your own pace. Our comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know, including eligibility criteria, required documents, examination procedures, and helpful tips to excel in the mandatory tests. Let's rev up and get started.
Eligibility Criteria For Abu Dhabi Driving Licence
Before you can steer your way through the city's charming streets, you must meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining a driving licence. You can apply for an Abu Dhabi driving licence if you are medically fit and above the legal age. So, let's dive into the eligibility criteria and pave your path towards driving freedom in Abu Dhabi.
- You must be a registered citizen of the UAE.
- You must be at least 18 to drive a car or light vehicle.
- You must be 17 or older if you want a motorcycle licence.
- For those aspiring to acquire a commercial driving licence for heavy vehicles such as trucks or tractors, a minimum age of 20 years is required.
- Individuals wishing to obtain a commercial bus driving licence must be at least 21 or older.
For Ex-pats Who Already Have a Driver's Licence
If you already have a valid driver's licence from any of these countries, you don't need to give another driving test in Abu Dhabi. You can walk into the nearest RTA office and submit the required documents. You can then drive your preferred vehicle onto the road without any hassle. More on that at the end of this guide.
Read More : How To Apply For Your Drivers License In UAE
Documents Required To Get Abu Dhabi Licence
Embarking on the journey to obtain your Abu Dhabi licence requires more than just fulfilling the eligibility criteria. It also entails gathering the necessary documents to validate your identity and ensure a smooth application process. Let's dive into the comprehensive list of required documents, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate this critical step towards confidently hitting the road.
- One crystal-clear, recent passport-size photograph
- The original and a photocopy of your passport to serve as proof of identity
- Your Emirates ID is an essential document for residents of the UAE
- The original and a photocopy of your foreign driving licence, if applicable
- A photocopy of a valid Abu Dhabi residency visa confirming your legal status in the city
- A No Objection Certificate from your employer or visa sponsor indicating their approval of your driving licence application
- An Arabic translation of your foreign driving licence (For ex-pats only)
Ensure your residency visa has at least six months of validity before applying for the UAE driving licence. After following the eligibility criteria and having the required documents, you must follow the process to get an Abu Dhabi driving licence.
Read More : How To Renew Your Indian International Driving License in The UAE?
How To Get Driving Licence In Abu Dhabi
To get your Abu Dhabi driving licence, you must go through several steps and fulfil some minimum criteria. You can follow our 7-step process to get your job done quickly.
Step 1: Undergo an Eye Test
To undergo an eye test, begin by visiting a licenced optician in Abu Dhabi recognised by the traffic and licensing department. It is imperative to bring along a valid Emirates ID during the examination.
- Associated Fee:
The eye test typically incurs a fee of AED 100.
Step 2: Initiate a Traffic File
To initiate the process, you can open a traffic file conveniently through the TAMM portal, the official Abu Dhabi Government services platform, or the Abu Dhabi Police mobile application. Both platforms offer online accessibility for creating your traffic file.
- Required Documents:
When applying through TAMM or Abu Dhabi Police, you must upload the following documents:
- Emirates ID
- Eye Test Certificate
- Personal Photo
- Applying through TAMM:
- Begin by visiting the official TAMM website at tamm.abudhabi
- On the homepage, navigate to the 'Vehicles and Transportation' category and select 'Driving Services'.
- Scroll down the page and click 'Request to Open a Driving Licence File'. Click on 'Start'.
- Log in using the UAE Pass, which serves as your authentication method.
- Select the type of licence you are applying for, such as a 'light motor vehicle' for a car's driving licence.
- Choose 'new' as the requested category.
- Select your preferred driving test centre, which includes branches of the Abu Dhabi Police Traffic and licensing department where your final driving test will occur. Additionally, indicate whether you prefer a manual or automatic transmission.
- The personal information section will automatically fill in since you used your UAE Pass account. It includes your full name, Emirates ID number and expiry date, nationality, Emirate of residence, date of birth, mobile number, and email address.
- Upload the necessary documents as per the requirements.
- Proceed to pay for opening a traffic file as indicated during the application process.
Read More : Renew your driving license in UAE: Step by Step Guide
Step 3: Ace the Theory Test and Complete Internal Practical Training
Once you have successfully opened your traffic file, it's time to visit the Emirate Driving Company (EDC) with your traffic file number. You will register for theory classes and the corresponding test at the EDC. Additionally, you will need to enrol in parking and yard training, known as internal practical training. Here are the required documents you need to carry:
- Traffic File Number
- Emirates ID
- Passport Copy
- Residency Visa Copy
- Latest Personal Photo
If you are 17, you will need your guardian's No Objection Certificate (NOC) for your Abu Dhabi driving licence. However, this requirement is not applicable if you are 18 or older.
Step 4: Secure a Road Test Date and Obtain a Training Permit
To begin your driving lessons, booking a road test date is essential. Here's how you can accomplish this through the TAMM portal:
- Visit this link.
- Log in using your UAE Pass credentials.
- Click on "Start" to initiate the process.
- Your personal information, automatically populated by your UAE Pass, will be displayed.
- Enter your traffic file number in the designated field.
- Confirm the chosen driving test location, as mentioned in Step 2.
- Complete the payment corresponding to the Abu Dhabi licence cost.
- You will receive an SMS shortly after confirming the scheduled driving test date and location.
You will also receive a training permit card upon successfully booking your driving test date. Once the road test is scheduled, you can commence your external practical training or external road training, which involves the practical driving classes you are required to undertake.
Step 5: Complete a Minimum of Six Hours of External Road Training
Following the previous steps, you must undergo at least six hours of driving classes. Several private companies within Abu Dhabi provide those classes, such as the Emirates Driving Company.
- Documents Required
- Traffic File Number
- Emirates ID
- Passport Copy
- Residency Visa Copy
- Personal Photo
- Training Permit
- Successful Completion of Theory Exam and Internal Practical Training
Step 6: Successfully Complete the Road Test
After completing the external road training, you will be required to visit the selected traffic licensing department branch in Abu Dhabi, as indicated during the opening of your traffic file. You will undergo the road test at this branch to assess your practical driving skills. Upon passing the road test, you can successfully claim your driver's licence.
Step 7: Obtain Your Driving licence
Once you have successfully passed the road test and met all the requirements, you can proceed to obtain your driving licence. There are two options available for collecting your driving licence:
There are two ways in which you will receive your driving licence:
- E-Driving Licence Card: An electronic version of your driving licence card will be sent to your registered email address or via SMS. RTA also lets you view the electronic version through the Abu Dhabi Police app.
- Physical Driving Licence Card: RTA issues the card within ten days after passing the road test. It will be available to collect from the designated collection point.
By following these steps, you will complete the road test and obtain your driving licence, enabling you to enjoy the freedom and privileges of driving in Abu Dhabi.
Read More : Best-in-class SUVs under AED 150,000
Best Driving Schools In Abu Dhabi
In a city where driving skills are paramount, these exceptional institutions stand out as beacons of quality education and road safety. From light vehicle mastery to handling heavy-duty rigs, these schools offer the finest training programs to equip you with the skills needed for success on the roads. Discover the driving schools that pave the way towards safer and more skilled drivers in Abu Dhabi.
Address: Sector # M34, Mussaffah Industrial Area, Mussaffah, Abu Dhabi, Landmark: Near Spencer Interiors LLC, Zip Code: 2943
Phone number: +971 2 5511911
Address: 6Q9G+XM3, Central District - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates, Zip Code: 15446
Phone number: +971 3 7643824
Address: near Royal Rotary Hotel Apartments, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, Zip Code: 15671
Phone number: +971 3 7656261
Address: 8GCP+56J, Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Shabiya 12, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Phone number: +971 2 6727134
Address: Musaffah - M-11, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Zip Code: 71394
Contact No: +971 2 4432503, +971 2 4431883
UAE Licence Cost
Get ready to take the first step towards independence with the knowledge of what it takes to obtain your driver's licence and the associated costs involved. Let's dive into the details and pave your way to the open road. The breakdown of the expenses for obtaining a driver's licence in Abu Dhabi is as follows:
- Eye test: AED 100
- Traffic file opening: AED 100
- Theory training at EDC: Starting at AED 830 with an additional AED 50 for the test.
- Practical test fee: Varies based on skill level, number of classes, and chosen school. According to EDC, the estimated minimum cost for beginners is approximately AED 2,705.
- Training permit issuance: AED 100
- Practical driving test: AED 200
- Driving licence issuance: AED 315
- Conversion of driving licence to Emirati: AED 250
Disclaimer: Please note that the mentioned costs are subject to change based on individual student requirements.
Driver's Licence in Abu-Dhabi: If you don't have residency yet
Getting a driving UAE driving licence as a foreigner is almost the same as mentioned above. You must show proof of residence and other documents to get an Abu Dhabi driving licence. For foreigners residing in Abu Dhabi, you require the documents mentioned below.
- Emirates ID (copy and original)
- Passport with visa page (copy)
- Passport-size photos (minimum of 8)
- Eye test results
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor
By showing these documents to the Abu Dhabi traffic police department, you can quickly get legal permission to drive.
FAQs
How to Check Driving Licence Status Online in Abu Dhabi?
To check the status of your driving licence in Abu Dhabi online, visit the official website of the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport or the Emirates Driving Company. Enter the required details, such as your licence number or personal information, to retrieve your licence status.
How long does it take to get a driving licence in Abu Dhabi?
The duration to obtain a driving licence in Abu Dhabi may vary depending on various factors, including your progress, the UAE driving licence type, and the efficiency of the training process. It can take three to six months to complete the necessary training and assessments to obtain a driving licence in Abu Dhabi.
Is the RTA road test difficult?
The difficulty level of the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) road test can vary depending on individual skills, preparation, and confidence. The road test assesses your practical driving abilities, including maneuvering, following traffic rules, and demonstrating safe driving practices.
How many times can I fail the RTA road test?
There is no minimum number of attempts for the Abu Dhabi driving licence. However, clearing them as soon as possible is best to drive along UAE roads at your leisure.
How many questions are on the Abu Dhabi RTA theory test?
The number of questions on the Abu Dhabi RTA theory test may vary as the test is periodically updated. Generally, the theory test consists of multiple-choice questions that assess your knowledge of traffic rules, road signs, and driving regulations. It is advisable to study the official driver's handbook and practice sample tests to familiarise yourself with the content and format of the exam.
