Table of contents
- Types of Driving License
- What is the Cost of a Driving License in Abu Dhabi?
- How to Apply For an Abu Dhabi Driving License
- How to Renew an Abu Dhabi Driving License
- Important Things To Know - (Regulations Around Abu Dhabi Driving Licenses)
- Benefits of Obtaining an Abu Dhabi Driving License
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Getting a driving license in Abu Dhabi can be a tricky process, and it's hard to know where to start. This post is here to help you understand the process from start to finish, including what you need to do before applying, the cost and documents involved, and the regulations that come with obtaining a driving license.
We'll also provide answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about getting a driving license in Abu Dhabi. With all this information at your fingertips, you'll be able to confidently apply for your driving license in no time.
Types of Driving License
In Abu Dhabi, there are several types of driving licenses that can be obtained, each allowing the holder to drive certain types of vehicles. These include:
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Light vehicle driving license: This license allows the holder to drive cars and light vehicles with a maximum weight of 3.5 tons.
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Heavy vehicle driving license: This license allows the holder to drive heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks with a maximum weight of 4.5 tons.
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Motorbike driving license: This license allows the holder to drive motorbikes with a maximum engine capacity of 400cc.
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Motorcycle driving license: This license allows the holder to drive motorcycles with an engine capacity greater than 400cc.
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Private driving license: This license allows the holder to drive private vehicles only and is not valid for commercial purposes.
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Commercial driving license: This license allows the holder to drive commercial vehicles for business purposes.
It's important to note that each type of license has its own set of requirements and eligibility criteria that must be met before applying.
If you rent a car in Abu Dhabi and incur a traffic fine, eZhire will be notified by the relevant authority who will pay the fine on your behalf.
What is the Cost of a Driving License in Abu Dhabi?
The cost of getting a driving license in Abu Dhabi varies depending on which type (light vehicle or heavy vehicle) you wish to obtain. Generally speaking, registering for light vehicle licensing will set you back between AED 200 - 1,400 ($54 - $378), while heavy vehicle licensing can range from AED 2200 – 4000 ($598 - $1089). Be sure to factor these costs into your overall budget when applying for your driving license!
How to Apply For an Abu Dhabi Driving License
Understand Abu Dhabi Driving License Requirements
To be eligible for an Abu Dhabi driving license, you need to meet the following requirements:
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Be at least 18 years old.
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Be a resident of Abu Dhabi or hold a valid residency visa.
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Pass an eye test administered by an authorized optician or optometrist.
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Complete a minimum of 20 hours of practical driving lessons with an authorized driving school in Abu Dhabi.
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Pass a practical driving test administered by Abu Dhabi's Traffic and Licensing Department.
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Pass a theory test on the rules of the road and traffic signs.
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Provide the required documents
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Pay the necessary fees for the driving license and related tests.
Gather the Required Documents needed for an Abu Dhabi Driving License
To apply for a driver's license in Abu Dhabi, you will need to prepare the following documentation:
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Original and copy of your valid passport with residency visa and Emirates ID.
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Two passport-sized photographs with a white background.
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No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor or employer.
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A completed application form can be obtained from any Abu Dhabi Traffic Police service center or downloaded from the Abu Dhabi Police website.
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A copy of your residency contract (if you are renting).
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Eye test certificate from an authorized optician.
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Theory test certificate, obtained by passing the relevant driving test.
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Practical driving test certificate, obtained by passing the relevant driving test.
Once you have all of the required documents, you can submit your application at any Abu Dhabi Traffic Police service center.
The application process typically takes between one and two weeks. If your application is approved, you will be issued a temporary driving permit that allows you to drive in Abu Dhabi until your permanent license is ready.
Complete Theory & Eye Test
To obtain a driving license in Abu Dhabi, you will need to pass both a theory test and a practical road test, as well as an eye test.
The theory test covers topics such as traffic laws and regulations, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can prepare for the test by studying the driver's handbook and taking practice tests.
The test can be taken at any of the authorized driving schools or testing centers in Abu Dhabi.
After passing the theory test, you will need to take an eye test to ensure that you meet the visual acuity requirements for driving.
The test measures your ability to see clearly at various distances, and you must achieve a minimum score to pass.
Once you have passed the theory and eye tests, you can begin practicing for the road test.
The road test will assess your ability to drive safely and confidently in various traffic situations, including city driving, highway driving, and parking.
You will need to demonstrate your ability to follow traffic laws, make safe driving decisions, and control the vehicle.
Overall, obtaining a driving license in Abu Dhabi requires preparation, practice, and adherence to traffic laws and regulations. With dedication and effort, you can pass the necessary tests and earn your license to drive in Abu Dhabi.
Pass Road Test & Submit Forms
To submit forms and receive a driving license in Abu Dhabi, you will need to follow these steps:
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Enroll in a driving school: You will need to enroll in a driving school to learn how to drive and prepare for the driving test.
The cost of enrolling in a driving school in Abu Dhabi can vary depending on the specific driving school and the type of course you choose. Generally, the cost of a comprehensive driving course can range from AED 4,500 to AED 7,000.
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Attend classes and take tests: You will need to attend driving classes and take tests to demonstrate your knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving practices.
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Pass the driving test: Once you have completed your driving classes, you will need to pass the driving test to demonstrate your ability to drive safely. The total cost for the test would be AED 250, including AED 50 for registering for the practical test and AED 200 for the issuance of the license.
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Submit required documents: Once you have passed the driving test, you will need to submit the required documents, and pay the applicable fees at a DoT Customer Service Center or through the Abu Dhabi Government Services website.
Including your passport, Emirates ID, residency visa, and a No Objection Certificate from your sponsor.
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Pay the fee: You will need to pay the required fee for the driving license.
The entire cost of the exam would be AED 250, which would include AED 50 for the practical test registration fee and AED 200 for the license issue.
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Receive your driving license: There are two ways to obtain your driving license card: You can either retrieve it from your driving school or visit the Abu Dhabi Police Customer Happiness Centres.
You have the option to receive an e-driving license card via email or SMS, and you can also access the electronic version of your driving license through the Abu Dhabi Police app. Alternatively, you can wait up to 10 days to receive the physical driving license card.
Note that the specific requirements and procedures for obtaining a driving license in Abu Dhabi may vary depending on your nationality, residency status, and other factors.
It is recommended that you consult with the relevant authorities or a driving school to obtain the most up-to-date information and guidance on the process.
How to Renew an Abu Dhabi Driving License?
Renewing your Abu Dhabi driving license is an important process that must be completed before your current license expires to ensure that you can continue legally driving on the roads in Abu Dhabi.
The cost to renew an Abu Dhabi driving license depends on several factors including the age and experience level of the driver and the type of vehicle they wish to drive (car or motorcycle). Generally speaking, however, fees range between AED 140 and 550 depending on these factors.
Additionally, fees may also include charges for training courses and/or medical tests required for issuing/renewing licenses as per traffic regulations in Abu Dhabi.
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Visit the Abu Dhabi Police website or use their smart app to start the renewal process.
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Select the "Traffic Services" option and choose "Driving License Renewal".
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Enter your Emirates ID number and driving license details.
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Select the renewal period (1, 3, or 5 years) and pay the renewal fee using a credit card or other electronic payment method.
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Schedule an appointment to visit a Customer Happiness Center or a Traffic and Licensing Services Center to complete the renewal process.
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Bring your original Emirates ID card and your current driving license with you to the appointment.
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Complete any required eye or medical tests if requested.
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Collect your renewed driving license once it's ready.
It's important to note that you must renew your Abu Dhabi driving license before it expires, and you may need to take a driving test or attend driving lessons if your license has expired for a long period of time.
Important Things To Know - (Regulations Around Abu Dhabi Driving Licenses)
Those who wish to obtain their license should be aware of some key regulations surrounding Dubai driving licenses:
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No alcohol consumption prior to operating any motorized vehicle.
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Using handheld devices is strictly prohibited while operating any motorized vehicle.
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Adhering strictly to speed limits outlined by traffic authorities.
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All drivers must carry their driver’s licenses with them when operating any motorized vehicle.
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Drivers are required by law to remain sober when operating any motorized vehicle All drivers must pass periodic medical examinations before renewing their driver’s licenses each year.
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Lastly, all drivers are expected to follow traffic laws outlined by concerned authorities.
If you have been issued a traffic violation in Abu Dhabi, you may find this comprehensive guide on Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines helpful in understanding the process of paying fines, checking outstanding fines, and appealing fines if necessary.
Benefits of Obtaining an Abu Dhabi Driving License
A driving license in Abu Dhabi is more than just a symbol of freedom; it has many other benefits as well. For starters, having one allows you greater access to transportation options and improved mobility throughout the city.
It also allows you to take advantage of special discounts on rental cars or taxi services offered by certain companies if you are a licensed driver in Abu Dhabi. Finally, having a valid driver's license shows potential employers that you are responsible and capable of following rules and regulations—something that is especially important for those looking for work-related opportunities.
FAQ's
1) How much does an Abu Dhabi driving license cost?
A. The cost of an Abu Dhabi driving license can vary depending on the driving institute you choose and the type of license you are applying for. Generally, the cost ranges from AED 5,000 to AED 7,000.
2) How long does it take to get an Abu Dhabi driving license?
A. The process of obtaining an Abu Dhabi driving license can take several months, depending on various factors such as the number of classes you attend, how quickly you learn, and the availability of appointments for tests. However, most people are able to obtain their license within 3-6 months.
3) How can I replace a lost Abu Dhabi driving license?
A. If your Abu Dhabi driving license is lost or stolen, you will need to apply for a replacement license. You can do this by visiting any traffic and licensing services center or through the Abu Dhabi police e-services portal.4) What is the best driving institute in Abu Dhabi?
A. There are many driving institutes in Abu Dhabi, and choosing the best one for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Some of the most popular driving institutes include Emirates Driving Company, Galadari Motor Driving Centre, and Emirates Driving Institute.
5) How can I check the status of my Abu Dhabi driving license?
A. You can check the status of your Abu Dhabi driving license by visiting the Abu Dhabi police e-services portal and entering your license number and other required information.
6) What should I do if I already have an international driving license?
A. If you have an international driving license, you may be able to convert it to an Abu Dhabi driving license without having to go through the full training and testing process. However, this will depend on the country that issued your international license and other factors.
7) What documents are required to apply for an Abu Dhabi driving license?
A. To apply for an Abu Dhabi driving license, you will need to provide several documents, including a copy of your passport, visa, Emirates ID, eye test report, and several passport-sized photos.
You may also need to provide additional documents depending on your specific situation.
8) How can I find my Abu Dhabi driving license number?
A. If you have lost your Abu Dhabi driving license and need to find your license number, you can try the following methods:
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Check your old driving license: If you have a previous version of your Abu Dhabi driving license, you can find your license number on the front or back of the card.
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Check your Emirates ID: Your Abu Dhabi driving license number is linked to your Emirates ID. You can check your Emirates ID to find your license number.
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Check the Abu Dhabi Police website: The Abu Dhabi Police website allows you to search for your driving license information using your Emirates ID. You can enter your Emirates ID on the website to find your license number.
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Contact the Abu Dhabi Traffic Department: You can contact the Abu Dhabi Traffic Department to request your driving license number. You will need to provide them with your Emirates ID and other personal information to verify your identity.
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Visit a customer service center: You can also visit a customer service center in Abu Dhabi to request your driving license number. You will need to provide your Emirates ID and other personal information to verify your identity.
It is important to note that you will need to provide valid identification and personal information to obtain your driving license number.
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining a driving license from the Abu Dhabi Traffic and Licensing Department can be a daunting task, however, if you follow the steps outlined in this blog post, you should have no problem obtaining your license by the end of it all.
Not only will acquiring a driving license be beneficial to be able to get around quickly and efficiently but also understanding the regulations in Abu Dhabi is important as well.
Nevertheless, understanding the different types of licenses available, and the appropriate documents needed to apply and pass any necessary tests and assessments will ensure successful achievement of an Abu Dhabi Driving license.
Lastly, with prices ranging from AED 200 to 400, depending on which license is requested, renewing or applying for your first time are both cost-effective ways of utilizing one's right to drive in Abu Dhabi.
