Driving & Car Use
Legal aspects, costs, and practical options are all crucial considerations for students who wish to drive in Dubai. If you are planning to get a UAE driving license or have a valid foreign license, this guide focuses on the supporting documents as well as picking a driving school, and whether to rent or buy a car. It also explains the traffic regulations you need to know.
Who Can Drive in Dubai?
How to Get a Driving License in Dubai
Step-by-Step for First-Time Applicants (students):
1. Open a Traffic File Do this through an RTA-approved driving school (e.g., Emirates Driving Institute, Galadari).
2. Eye Test Conducted at approved clinics or directly at the driving school.
3. Attend Theory & Practical Training
• Up to 20–40 hours depending on experience
• Includes internal assessments, parking, and highway driving
4. Pass RTA Tests
• Theory test
• Yard test (parking)
• Road test (final)
5. Receive License Valid for 2 years (for students under 21), renewable.
Documents required:
• Emirates ID
• Passport with visa page
• NOC (No Objection Certificate) from university or sponsor
• Passport photo
• Eye test results
Average cost: 4,500–7,500 AED total (depending on package and attempts)
Recommended rental platforms:
• SelfDrive – Rent a car monthly or weekly
• Ekar – Car-sharing across Dubai
• Carasti – Monthly and long-term rent
• OneClickDrive – Car rental UAE marketplace
Note: Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and hold a UAE license valid for 6+ months.
Buying vs. Renting a Car as a Student
Documents & Rules to Know
• NOC from university/sponsor
• Traffic file through a driving school
• Medical test result (eye test)
• UAE laws prohibit driving with an international license once you’re on a residence visa
• Speed limits, seat belts, phone use – All strictly monitored via traffic cameras
Helpful Tip: Use the RTA Dubai App to track license application, book tests, and review traffic laws.
Pitfalls to Avoid
• Skipping required documents – Without an NOC or eye test, you won’t be allowed to register.
• Failing to budget for retakes – RTA test retakes are paid separately.
• Not checking insurance terms – Make sure student drivers are covered if renting a car.
• Driving with an IDP on a residence visa – This is illegal and could result in fines or legal issues.
Useful Platforms & Sources
Top Driving institutes:
• Galadari Motor Driving Centre
Note: Almost all driving institutes are offering the same program for same price, pay more attention to a head office location, because all exams would be there.
Official sources:
• RTA Official Site – Driving license process and traffic services
• Dubai Police Traffic Fines Check
• MOI list - list of countries who can exchange driving license