For many countries you are able to convert your driving license to a UAE one, in others you can't. The list is below...
24 July 2013
| Last updated on 2 January 2018
Holders of foreign driving licences from accredited countries can replace their licences with a UAE driving licence. Many countries are given an option of a straight conversion the list is as follows:
Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Poland, Qatar, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States.
Some countries such as Canada, Greece, Turkey, Japan and Korea need a translation from there consulate.
Visitors, and people waiting for their residency permit to be processed, can apply for a temporary licence. The licence is valid for six months and is issued by the Traffic Police Licensing Department (www.adpolice.gov.ae). To obtain one you will need to fill out the application form and take your essential documents along, including your full driving licence (paper counterpart and card if you’re British). The licence is processed within a couple of minutes and costs Dhs.110. If you don’t have a licence from your own country then you will have to take a test. For further information contact the Licensing Department (02 419 5555).
Required documents
Your Passport, original and one photocopy of both your main page, and visa page
Three passport photos
A photocopy of your current valid driving licence from your home country - (paper counterpart and card if you’re British). and one photocopy,
A letter from your sponsor or employer giving you permission to obtain the UAE licence
An eye test.
An eye test is easily obtained from a clinic or Optician’s shop, give them two passport photos, and tell them the test is for your driving licence application.
Fee
200 Dirham, plus the cost of an eye test.
The Vehicles and Drivers Licencing Department is on Muroor Road beside the Police College, their opening hours are Sunday to Thursday 7.30am to 9pm. Have all your documents with you and the process is straightforward and does not take long.
NOTE: Always carry your Abu Dhabi driving licence when driving. If you fail to produce it during a police spot check, you will be fined. The licence is valid for 10 years and renewal is straightforward.
This page last updated 05.6.2012
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