If you are a new Dubai resident with a driving license from your home country, you may be eligible to exchange it for a UAE driving permit without having to go through the entire application process again. This can save you time and effort, as well as the frustration of starting from scratch. To be eligible for this exchange, you need to meet certain requirements, including having an Emirates ID, original driving license, legal Arabic translation of your license, NOC from your sponsor, passport-sized pictures, completed application form, and a valid eye test result from an accredited center.
To apply for the exchange, you can do so through the RTA website by entering your Emirates ID or passport details. You will need to provide information about your existing license, attach a copy of it, and pay the required fees using a debit or credit card. Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a reference number that you can use to track the status of your request. You can also visit any RTA customer happiness center to submit your documents and settle the fees in person.
The service fees for converting your license to a UAE permit will vary depending on your nationality. For example, if you are a Singaporean resident, you need to pay a certain amount for opening your file with RTA, traffic manual, knowledge and innovation fees, and issuance of the new Dubai license. Once your application is processed and approved, you can claim your new license by presenting your original driving license and Emirates ID at an RTA customer happiness center. Your new license will be valid for either one or two years, depending on your age.
It is important to note that you may only be eligible for a direct license exchange if your driving license was issued from one of the specified countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Singapore, UK, US, and more. If you meet the eligibility criteria and have all the necessary documents, you can easily convert your existing driving permit to a UAE license hassle-free. This convenient process allows you to continue driving in Dubai without the need for additional tests or training, saving you time and effort. So if you are eligible for a direct license exchange, take advantage of this opportunity to simplify the process and start driving legally in Dubai.