Step-by-Step Guide: How to Renew a Driving License in Dubai

Renewing your driving license in Dubai may seem a little complex, but with the right information and preparation, it can be smooth and hassle-free. Whether you're a resident or an expatriate, renewing your driving license is a legal requirement to continue driving in the UAE. In this article, we will walk you through the steps, requirements, and the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) associated with renewing your driving license in Dubai.

Understanding the Renewal Process

Driving licenses can be renewed for a period of up to 10 years for UAE and GCC citizens, whereas residents are eligible for a maximum of 5-year renewal only. It's important to note that all outstanding traffic fines must be cleared before renewing your license. Additionally, there is a monthly penalty of 10 AED for those who delay their license renewal by more than one month. The Road and Transport Authority, (RTA) Dubai is the designated organization to facilitate driving license renewals in Dubai. The process of driving license renewal in Dubai involves several key steps. Here's a breakdown of the whole process for your easy perusal: 

How to Renew A Driving License in Dubai Online with the RTA?  

You can follow the below steps on the website to get your driving license renewed in Dubai.

• First, take an electronic eye test at one of the authorized Eye Test Centres.

• Then, enter your Emirates ID or driving license details on the website, and the system automatically retrieves your information.

• To verify your identity, the system sends a one-time password (OTP) to your registered phone number.

• After that, you can apply to renew your driving license.

• At this stage, the system checks the status of your traffic file to validate it.

• You need to review and confirm your driving license details before it gets issued.

• To complete the process, you can use your credit card to pay all required fees and fines.

• While you’re waiting for your renewed license, you’ll be issued a temporary driving license via email. 

• For license delivery, you have two options:

                     - Collect it from the Customer Happiness Centers in Deira or Al Barsha.

                     - Or, you can opt for delivery with the following fees:

                       Standard delivery: 20 AED

                       Same day delivery: 35 AED

                       Delivery within 2 hours: 50 AED

                       International delivery: 50 AED

• If you have an Apple device, you can also receive the electronic license through the Apple Wallet using the RTA Dubai App.

Alternatively, you can directly visit an RTA Happiness center and get your renewed license printed in ‘just three minutes’ by entering some basic information such as - license number, birth year, traffic code number and license source. 

Some additional Useful Information for License Renewal in Dubai 

Online and Offline Channels to Apply for Driving License Renewal in Dubai

Checklist Before You Start the License Renewal Process

Determine Your License Type:

Road and Transport Authority, (RTA) Dubai issues various types of driving licenses, including light vehicle, heavy vehicle, and motorcycle licenses. Make sure to know your license type before starting and apply for renewal in the right category only.

Check Eligibility:

You can renew your driving license if it's within 30 days of its expiry date. If it has already expired, you'll be required to pay a fine.

Visit the RTA, Use Apps or Self-Service Machines for Renewal:

You can renew your license in person or online via the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website, authorized apps or the self-service machines listed above. 

Undergo an Eye Test:

You may need to pass an eye test prior to renewal. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, be sure to bring them with you.

Submit The Required Documents or ID Numbers Online:

Prepare the necessary documents, including your existing driving license, Emirates ID, passport copy, visa copy, eye test results, and a no-objection certificate (NOC) from your employer if applicable.

Pay the Fees:

Pay the renewal fees, which vary depending on the license type and duration. Payment can be made online or in person at the RTA or typing center.

Receive A Temporary License:

Once you’ve paid the fee, you'll be issued a temporary driving license that is valid until your new license is ready. This is usually available within the RTA customer dashboard.

Receive Your Renewed License:

Your renewed driving license will be mailed to your registered address or can be collected from the RTA or authorized centers, depending on your preference.

Terms and Conditions to Remember and Comply With for Driving License Renewal in Dubai

1. All fines on a driving license must be settled.

2. If a customer is 21 years old or older, they can renew their driving license up to one year before its expiration date.

3. If a customer is younger than 21 years old, they can renew their license up to one month before its expiration date.

4. The driving license being renewed must be both valid and in the possession of its owner.

5. Temporary or interim driving licenses cannot be renewed.

6. The customer's photograph is extracted from the Emirates ID scanner.

7. Marsoom holders with an expired passport can renew their driving license for a maximum of one year.

8. Diplomats, individuals without a family book (Marsoom), and sons of Emirati women must visit the Customer Happiness Centers at Umm Ramool, Al Manarah, Al Twar, Deira, Al Barsha, or Al Kifaf to apply for the service in order to meet the requirements for their exceptions.

9. Customers have the option to request the mobile truck service for the eye test and license renewal.

10. If a driving license has expired for more than 10 years, its renewal will necessitate an evaluation test.

11. The renewal period will be calculated from the date of the transaction for all customers.