
Have you recently discovered black points on your UAE driving license and are unsure how to remove them? You’re not alone. Many drivers across the Emirates face this situation due to traffic violations, and understanding the best way to deal with these penalties is crucial to keeping your driving record clean and your license active.
In the UAE, black points serve as a warning system that tracks unsafe driving behaviors. If left unmanaged, they can lead to hefty fines, license suspension, or worse. Fortunately, several effective and legal methods can help you remove these points or prevent their accumulation in the first place.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from checking your black point balance to removing and preventing them quickly and legally.
What Are Black Points on a UAE Driving License?

Black points are a penalty system used by traffic authorities in the UAE to monitor and discourage unsafe driving practices. Each time a driver commits a traffic violation, a set number of black points is assigned to their driving record. These are not just warnings but formal marks that stay with your license for up to 12 months unless addressed.
Understanding black points is important because accumulating too many within a year can result in serious consequences such as license suspension or car impoundment.
Black points vary depending on the severity of the traffic violation. Minor offenses like using a mobile phone while driving might earn you 4 points, while more dangerous actions such as reckless driving could carry up to 24 points.
Here are a few things to know about black points:
- They are issued directly by traffic authorities.
- Every point is linked to a specific violation.
- They are intended to encourage safer road behavior.
- They remain on your record for a year unless removed.
The goal is not only to penalize but also to reform driver behavior and reduce road accidents across the UAE.
How Are Black Points Issued in the UAE?
The UAE uses a structured and centralized system to issue black points, ensuring road safety and accountability among drivers. Points are assigned based on the type and severity of the violation committed, and they are updated automatically in the driver’s digital traffic record.
Black points can be issued in various ways:
- Radar systems and traffic cameras detect speeding, red-light jumping, and signal violations.
- Police patrols observe and document infractions on the road.
- Smart surveillance technology assists in monitoring driving behavior, especially in urban areas.
Once a violation is detected, the evidence is reviewed. If confirmed, black points are added to the driver’s record, and an SMS or app notification is sent. These points remain active for 12 months from the date of issuance, unless the driver takes steps to remove them or they expire naturally.
Common Traffic Violations and Corresponding Black Points:
| Violation | Black Points |
| Driving without a license | 24 |
| Causing a fatal accident | 24 |
| Driving under the influence | 24 |
| Reckless or aggressive driving | 23 |
| Speeding over 60 km/h above the limit | 23 |
| Jumping a red light | 8 |
| Using a mobile phone while driving | 4 |
| Not wearing a seatbelt | 4 |
| Not using a child safety seat | 4 |
| Tailgating or unsafe distance | 4 |
| Overtaking from the shoulder | 6–12 |
| Failing to give way to emergency vehicles | 6 |
| Parking in dangerous or restricted areas | 4–6 |
This transparent system helps drivers become more responsible by clearly linking actions to consequences.
What Happens When You Accumulate Too Many Black Points?
When a driver accumulates too many black points within a short period, they face serious administrative and legal consequences that could impact their driving privileges and daily life.
Here’s what you need to know about the repercussions:
- License Suspension: If you accumulate 24 black points within one year, your driving license can be suspended for 3 to 6 months.
- Repeat Offenders: Second-time offenders face a 6 to 12 months suspension, and a third offense may lead to a one-year ban and retesting.
- Vehicle Confiscation: Authorities may also impound the vehicle involved in serious violations.
- Insurance Premiums: Drivers with high black point records may face increased insurance premiums due to their risk profile.
- Registration Blocks: Vehicle registration may be denied until the black points are addressed.
- Employment Issues: In transport-related jobs, black points can hinder job opportunities or renewals.
High black points are not just a legal issue but can become a financial and personal burden. Managing them quickly is essential to maintaining your driving freedom in the UAE.
How to Check Black Points on Your License Online?

Before you can act on black points, it’s important to know how many you have. The UAE offers easy online platforms to check your traffic violations and black points. Checking your record regularly ensures you stay updated and can take timely action if needed.
Step-by-step: Using Dubai Police and Abu Dhabi Police websites
You can check your black point balance directly through these official portals:
Dubai Police Website
- Visit the Dubai Police official website.
- Click on “Services” > “Traffic Services” > “Fines Inquiry and Payment.”
- Enter your license number or vehicle plate number.
- Your fines and black points will appear on the screen.
Abu Dhabi Police Website
- Navigate to the Abu Dhabi Police e-services portal or TAMM.
- Select the “Traffic Violations Inquiry” option.
- Enter your Emirates ID or driving license number.
- View your current black points and fines associated.
Using Official Apps (Dubai Police App, TAMM, Ministry of Interior App)
These mobile apps provide fast and convenient access to your driving records:
- Dubai Police App: Download from the App Store or Google Play, then log in with your Emirates ID. Navigate to “Traffic Services” and use the “Black Points Inquiry” tool.
- TAMM App (Abu Dhabi): Allows residents to access all government services, including black point checks.
- Ministry of Interior App: Also allows users across all Emirates to check and pay fines or track black points.
What Information Do You Need to Check (license number, Emirates ID)
To check your record, you’ll typically need the following:
- Emirates ID number
- Driving license number
- Vehicle plate number (optional for some platforms)
- Registered mobile number (to receive OTP if needed)
By staying informed, you can act before reaching the threshold for license suspension.
How to Remove Black Points from License in the UAE?

Removing black points from your license is entirely possible through several legal and government-approved methods.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Defensive Driving Courses: Dubai Police and Abu Dhabi Police often allow eligible drivers to remove up to 8 black points by completing an approved defensive driving or traffic awareness course. These sessions focus on safe driving behavior, road laws, and avoiding repeat offenses.
- Letting Points Expire: Each black point remains on your license for 12 months from the date it was added. If you maintain a clean driving record during that period, the points expire automatically.
- Paying Fines Promptly: Settling your traffic fines on time helps avoid accumulating more points and may be a condition before attending a course or applying for removal.
- Participating in Campaigns: Events like the “Day Without Accident” campaign offer a chance to remove points by pledging and demonstrating safe driving behavior.
- Appealing Unfair Points: If you believe a point was added unfairly, you can submit an appeal with supporting documents (e.g., CCTV footage, vehicle ownership proof).
- Transferring Points: If another person was driving your vehicle at the time of the violation, the black points can be transferred using the official portal, such as TAMM.
These methods encourage drivers to take corrective action and maintain road safety.
How Many Black Points Are Allowed Before License Suspension?
In the UAE, reaching the maximum limit of black points on your license has serious implications. Traffic authorities have set specific thresholds to determine the consequences based on the total black points accumulated in a year.
Here’s how it works:
- 24 Points: First-time offenders face a suspension ranging from 3 to 6 months.
- Second Time Reaching 24 Points: The suspension duration increases to 6 to 12 months.
- Third Time Reaching 24 Points: Your license can be suspended for one full year, and you may be required to take driving lessons and pass a test again.
Additional consequences include:
- Inability to renew your vehicle registration while the suspension is active
- Need for mandatory rehabilitation in some Emirates
- Risk of increased auto insurance premiums
The system is designed to correct unsafe driving through escalating consequences rather than immediate revocation. This staged structure offers drivers the chance to improve while maintaining road safety for all. Keeping your black points below the threshold is the best way to avoid these outcomes.
How to Prevent Future Black Points?

Preventing black points is just as important as removing them. The best approach is adopting consistent safe driving habits and staying informed about road regulations.
Here are key steps to avoid black points in the future:
- Always follow posted speed limits and road signs
- Avoid distractions such as using a mobile phone while driving
- Ensure all passengers wear seatbelts, especially children
- Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and others
- Be respectful of emergency vehicles and pedestrian zones
- Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Regularly check your vehicle registration and insurance
Preventive Checklist for UAE Drivers
| Preventive Action | Why It Matters |
| Follow traffic rules | Avoids violations and black points |
| Take awareness courses proactively | Builds better habits, not just after violations |
| Use official apps to monitor violations | Early detection allows quick action |
| Avoid aggressive or reckless driving | High-point offenses carry greater risks |
| Stay informed about law updates | Traffic laws may change frequently |
Practicing awareness and caution is the most reliable way to stay point-free.
Conclusion
Black points on your driving license in the UAE are more than just numbers. They reflect your driving habits and can impact your legal standing, financial costs, and mobility.
But the good news is that these points can be managed, reduced, and even avoided altogether. From enrolling in certified driving courses to staying updated with traffic rules and monitoring your record, you have multiple ways to keep your driving profile clean.
Remember, the key lies in staying proactive. By taking responsibility today, you can avoid license suspension tomorrow. Make use of the official channels available to check and manage your black points, and always aim for safer roads — for you and everyone else.
FAQs
How long do black points stay on a UAE driving license?
Black points remain valid for 12 months from the date of the traffic violation. If no new violations occur, they automatically expire.
Can I remove black points for free?
Yes, certain campaigns like the Day Without Accident offer black point removal without any cost through safe driving pledges.
How many black points can be removed through courses?
You can typically remove up to 8 black points by completing a police-approved defensive driving course.
Do black points increase my car insurance premium?
Yes, having black points may classify you as a high-risk driver, leading to higher insurance rates.
Can tourists or rental car drivers receive black points?
Yes, even visitors using rental cars can receive black points for violations committed in the UAE.
Is it possible to transfer black points to another driver?
Yes, if someone else was driving your vehicle, you can transfer the points with supporting evidence through portals like TAMM.
Are there discounts on traffic fines during holidays?
Yes, during Ramadan and other special occasions, some Emirates offer discounted rates on traffic fines.