How Much Is Dubai Driving License Renewal Fee?

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Are you wondering how much it costs to renew your Dubai driving license or what steps are involved? Whether you’re an expat or a UAE national, renewing your driving license on time is not only a legal requirement but also helps you avoid unnecessary fines and complications.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has simplified the renewal process by offering multiple channels, online platforms, mobile apps, kiosks, and service centres so you can choose the method that best suits your lifestyle.

That said, many still get confused about when to renew, what documents are needed, and how the fees vary. This guide breaks down the entire renewal process, including the current fees, required documents, eligibility rules, processing time, and more.

By the end, you’ll have a complete understanding of how to renew your license efficiently, avoid penalties, and stay compliant with RTA regulations.

What Is the Current Dubai Driving License Renewal Fee?

Understanding the fee structure for renewing a driving license in Dubai is crucial for residents who want to plan their budgets and avoid surprises. The cost of renewal primarily depends on your age and whether you choose online or offline channels.

For drivers aged 21 and above, the standard renewal fee is AED 300. If you’re under 21, the fee is reduced to AED 100. These base rates are applicable across all categories of private licenses. However, additional service charges apply depending on how and where you renew.

The RTA imposes additional fixed charges:

Fee Type	Amount (AED)
Base Renewal Fee (Over 21)	300
Base Renewal Fee (Under 21)	100
Knowledge Fee	20
Innovation Fee	10
Mobile Eye Test & Renewal Truck	500 (Optional)
Home Delivery (Optional)	25

The total amount can vary depending on optional services and where you complete your eye test. Motorcycle and commercial licenses may involve different requirements or additional steps, but the renewal fees remain mostly aligned with private vehicle license categories.

Who Needs to Renew Their Driving License in Dubai?

If you live in Dubai and drive legally, you will need to renew your driving license periodically to continue driving without issues. The frequency of renewal depends on your residency status, age, and even your medical condition in some cases.

UAE nationals benefit from longer renewal intervals, with licenses valid for 10 years. GCC citizens also follow a 10-year cycle. However, expatriates and other residents must renew their licenses every 5 years. Senior citizens, regardless of nationality, are subject to stricter timelines.

Here’s how renewal timelines break down:

Category	License Validity Period
UAE Nationals	10 years
GCC Nationals	10 years
Expats/Residents	5 years
Drivers over 65	3 years

Renewals are not just about timelines. Individuals from certain backgrounds, such as people with disabilities, may be required to submit additional documentation, like medical certificates.

Diplomats must present diplomatic cards and official letters. If you’re under 21, renewal is typically annual, and you may be subject to further assessment based on your driving record and vision tests.

When Should You Renew Your Dubai Driving License?

It’s essential to renew your license before it expires to avoid penalties and driving restrictions. The RTA allows you to begin the renewal process up to six months prior to the expiry date. This window gives ample time to complete all necessary steps, especially if documentation or testing is delayed.

After the license expires, a late fee is imposed monthly. Each month of delay costs AED 10, with a maximum fine limit of AED 500. These fines are added to your total renewal cost, which can become a financial burden if not addressed in time.

To avoid last-minute issues:

Set reminders for your license expiry date using the RTA app
Perform your eye test well in advance
Clear any pending traffic fines which might block the renewal process

Delaying renewal for over ten years could require you to retake the driving test and complete additional formalities. Therefore, proactive renewal is highly recommended.

How Can You Renew Your Driving License in Dubai?

Renewing your driving license in Dubai is easier than ever, thanks to several convenient channels provided by the RTA. Whether you prefer doing it from your phone or visiting a service centre, the RTA ensures flexibility for all users.

Online Method

The quickest and most popular way to renew your license is through the RTA website or the Dubai Drive App. Log in using your UAE Pass or Emirates ID. Then select the driving license renewal option, upload the required documents (eye test, Emirates ID), and pay the applicable fees. A digital copy of your temporary license is issued instantly, while the physical card is either collected at a centre or delivered to your address.

RTA Customer Happiness Centres

If you prefer an in-person experience, visit one of the RTA’s centres across Dubai. You can take your eye test there, submit all documents, pay your fees, and receive a temporary license immediately. This is ideal for those facing issues with online systems or requiring additional help.

Smart Kiosks

Strategically placed in malls and public areas, RTA kiosks allow users to perform renewals 24/7. The kiosks support Emirates ID verification, document uploads, and printing of temporary licenses. These are perfect for those who prefer a self-service experience.

Each method is designed for different levels of tech familiarity, ensuring everyone can complete the renewal process smoothly.

What Documents Are Required for License Renewal in Dubai?

The renewal process begins with collecting and submitting essential documents. Missing any of them can lead to delays or rejection.

You’ll need:

A valid Emirates ID
A recent passport-size photograph
Your old or soon-to-expire driving license
A valid eye test certificate from an approved optical centre

Special documents are needed for specific categories:

People of determination must provide a medical certificate
Diplomats need to submit an official letter and a valid diplomatic ID
Residents with Marsoom or Emirati mother status may need additional letters from immigration

Make sure your Emirates ID details are consistent across all platforms, as mismatches are a common reason for application failures. The eye test certificate should be recent and completed only at authorised centres.

Where Can You Get the Mandatory Eye Test Done?

An eye test is mandatory for every driving license renewal in Dubai, regardless of the applicant’s age or nationality. This requirement ensures that all drivers maintain an acceptable standard of vision for safe driving. You can complete the eye test at any RTA-approved optical centre.

These include:

Yateem Opticians
Al Jaber Optical
Barakat Optical
Magrabi Optical

Many RTA Customer Happiness Centres and some driving schools also offer on-site eye test facilities, which can streamline the process if you’re applying in person.

The eye test is valid for 6 months from the date it is issued. Fees typically range from AED 130 to AED 180 depending on the provider and location. Some mobile services offer to conduct the test at your doorstep for an additional AED 500, which can be convenient but costly.

How Long Does the Dubai License Renewal Process Take?

The time it takes to renew a driving license in Dubai depends largely on the method you choose. Online methods tend to be quicker than in-person visits.

Method	Average Processing Time	Delivery Notes
RTA Website/App	30–60 minutes	Digital license available instantly
RTA Centre	1–2 hours	Temporary license issued on-site
Smart Kiosk	Less than 30 minutes	Instant temporary printout
Home Delivery	5–15 working days	AED 25 delivery fee applies

Once the application is approved, the renewed license is either delivered to your home or can be picked up at a designated centre. You can track your application status via the RTA app or website using the reference number provided during submission.

What Happens If You Delay Renewing Your Driving License?

Delaying your driving license renewal can lead to serious financial and legal issues. Once the license expires, you are no longer legally permitted to drive in the UAE.

Late renewal fees accumulate at AED 10 per month, capped at AED 500. If your license has been expired for more than 10 years, you will be required to take the driving test again, along with a full reassessment of your skills and vision.

Driving with an expired license is a violation and may result in additional fines or even impoundment of your vehicle. It can also affect your insurance claims in case of an accident.

To avoid complications:

Renew your license early
Keep an eye on expiry dates
Pay any pending fines before starting the process

Being proactive saves money and ensures continued access to essential services like car rental or insurance renewal.

Can You Renew a Dubai Driving License from Outside the UAE?

If you’re currently outside the UAE, you can still renew your Dubai driving license as long as your Emirates ID is valid and you have completed a recent eye test at an RTA-approved centre before your departure.

The RTA website and Dubai Drive App both allow remote access to license renewal services. Once you upload your documents and complete the payment, your temporary license is issued digitally.

The physical card can be delivered through international courier services, although this may come with additional fees and extended delivery times.

This feature is especially useful for residents who travel frequently or are temporarily based abroad but still wish to maintain a valid UAE driving license.

What Are the Common Issues People Face During Renewal?

Despite the RTA’s efforts to streamline the process, several users encounter obstacles that can delay or halt their renewal.

A common issue is data mismatch, especially between the Emirates ID and the RTA database. Unpaid traffic fines can also block renewal, so it’s essential to clear all penalties before initiating the application.

Technical issues may arise while using the website or mobile app. These include slow loading times, login errors, or failed uploads of documents. In such cases, visiting a service centre may be the best solution.

In summary, the most common challenges include:

Inconsistent or incorrect Emirates ID details
Outstanding fines
Portal errors or failed uploads

Keeping your records accurate and your fines paid ensures a smooth and successful renewal process.

Conclusion

Renewing your driving license in Dubai is a straightforward process, provided you meet the requirements and act within the allowed timeframes.

By understanding the applicable fees, required documents, and renewal channels, you can complete the process efficiently and legally.

Whether you prefer using the RTA’s website, mobile app, or visiting a service centre, each option is designed to serve your needs with minimal hassle.

Avoiding fines, ensuring your vision meets standards, and renewing on time not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also ensures peace of mind while driving. Take action early, stay organised, and enjoy continued driving privileges in Dubai without interruptions.