Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a copyright in Dubai, you must meet certain requirements:
- Minimum Age:
- 17 years old for motorcycles.
- 18 years old for light motor vehicles (cars).
- 20 years old for heavy vehicles.
- 21 years old for buses.
- Residency: You must be a UAE resident holding a valid Emirates ID. Tourists cannot apply for a permanent copyright.
Types of Driving Licenses in Dubai
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai issues different types of driving licenses:
- Light Motor Vehicle License (LMV) – for cars.
- Heavy Vehicle License – for trucks and large vehicles.
- Motorcycle License – for two-wheelers.
- Other Categories – such as bus licenses, forklift, and special machinery.
Required Documents
To begin your application, you’ll need:
- Original and copy of Emirates ID.
- Copy of copyright with residence visa page.
- Eye test report from an authorized optician.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer/sponsor (if required).
Applying for a copyright
The first step is registering with an RTA-approved driving school such as Emirates Driving Institute, Belhasa Driving Center, or Dubai Driving Center. After registration:
- Submit all required documents.
- Get your eye test done.
- Start attending theory and practical classes as assigned.
Eye Test Requirement
The RTA requires all applicants to pass an eye test before training. You can do this at:
- Optician centers like Yateem Optician, Al Jaber Optical, or in-house at driving schools.
- Fees usually range from AED 140–180.
- Test validity lasts for a certain period, so ensure you apply on time.
Driving Classes and Training Hours
Training hours depend on your driving experience:
- Beginner (no previous license) – 20 to 40 hours of training.
- License from non-exempt countries – Reduced hours depending on RTA rules.
- License from exempt countries – Eligible for conversion without classes.
Classes cover both theory (road signs, safety, rules) and practical driving (parking, highway driving, city driving).
Theory Test
The theory test is computer-based and includes:
- 35 multiple-choice questions.
- Topics: traffic signs, hazard perception, road safety, and RTA rules.
- Available in multiple languages.
Pro Tip: Use the RTA app for practice questions before your exam.
Parking Test
This stage tests your parking skills. You’ll need to master:
- Parallel parking
- Garage parking
- Slope/hill test
- Angle parking
Failing any part means repeating the test before moving forward.
Assessment Test
Before booking your RTA final road test, your driving school will conduct an internal assessment test. Passing this shows you’re ready for the official exam.
Road Test
The final stage is the RTA road test. Here’s what happens:
- An examiner will evaluate your driving in real traffic conditions.
- You’ll be judged on lane discipline, awareness, confidence, and safety.
- If you pass, you’ll get your license the same day. If not, you’ll need more classes before rebooking.
License Conversion
If you already hold a valid copyright from certain countries, you can skip training and directly apply for conversion. Eligible countries include the UK, USA, Canada, and many European nations.
Steps to Convert:
- Submit documents and eye test.
- Pay conversion fees.
- Collect your Dubai license without training.
Costs and Fees
Getting a copyright in Dubai isn’t cheap. Costs may vary depending on the driving school and number of attempts.
- Application Fees: Around AED 200–300.
- Eye Test: AED 140–180.
- Training Fees: AED 4,500–7,000 (varies with hours).
- Theory and Test Fees: AED 1,000–1,500 approx.
Total Estimate: AED 5,000–8,000 on average.
Tips to Pass Quickly
- Be punctual and consistent with your classes.
- Practice extra with a licensed driver if possible.
- Stay calm during tests – nervousness is the top reason for failure.
- Learn Dubai-specific driving rules (like priority at roundabouts).
Renewal of copyright
- For drivers under 21 years old – validity is 1 year.
- For drivers above 21 – validity is 10 years for UAE and GCC nationals, and 5 years for expatriates.
- Renewal can be done online through the RTA app or service centers.
Conclusion
Getting a car copyright in Dubai may feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the process step by step, it’s manageable. From registering at an RTA-approved school to passing your road test, every stage prepares you to become a safe and confident driver on Dubai’s busy roads. Yes, it can be time-consuming and costly, but the freedom of having your own license is worth it.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to get a copyright in Dubai?
It usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on how quickly you complete classes and pass tests.
2. Can tourists apply for a Dubai copyright?
No, only residents with valid Emirates IDs can apply. Tourists can drive using an international driving permit.
3. What happens if you fail the RTA road test?
You’ll need to take additional classes (usually 4–8 hours) before rebooking another test.
4. Is the Dubai copyright valid internationally?
Yes, Dubai’s license is recognized in many countries, but you may need an international permit for some regions.
5. Can I transfer my copyright from another emirate?
Yes, licenses issued in any UAE emirate are valid across the country. You can renew or transfer them in Dubai.