How to Transfer a Foreign Driving License to an Abu Dhabi Driving License

Transferring your foreign driving license to an Abu Dhabi driving license ensures compliance with UAE traffic laws and allows you to drive legally within the emirate. This detailed guide explains eligibility, required documents, procedures, fees, and additional tips to make the process smooth—whether you apply online or in person.

Eligibility Criteria

Must be 18 years or older.
Must be an Abu Dhabi citizen or resident.
Must hold a valid Emirates ID or a diplomatic card issued for embassies, consulates, or international organizations (supported by a Ministry of Foreign Affairs letter valid for at least six months).
Must possess a valid foreign driving license.

Required Documents

Recent passport-sized photograph.
Original and copy of your passport.
Emirates ID or diplomatic card (with a Ministry of Foreign Affairs letter if using a diplomatic card).
Original and copy of your foreign driving license.
Arabic translation of your foreign license (available at licensed translation centers).
A copy of your valid Abu Dhabi residency visa.
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor (not required for certain professions and diplomatic passport holders).
Valid eye test certificate (if applicable).

Step-by-Step Procedure

Option 1: Online Application (For Emirates ID Holders)

Register on Abu Dhabi Police e-Services.
Log in and navigate to Driver Services.
Select Issuance of Driving License or Foreign License Replacement.
Complete all prompts, upload the required documents, and pay the applicable fees.

Option 2: In-Person Application

Visit the Abu Dhabi Drivers License Department:
- Address: 2nd & Al Dhafra Street, Al Mushrif, opposite Mushrif Mall.
- Phone: 600 577 7777.
Submit all required documents to the service counter.
If necessary, complete an eye test and license verification.
Pay the applicable fees, wait for your name to be called, and collect your Abu Dhabi driving license.

Authorized Countries for Direct Transfer

Without Driving Test (License and Nationality Match)

GCC Countries: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait.
European Countries: Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Slovakia, Finland, Spain, Netherlands, Greece, Sweden, Belgium, Ireland, Turkey, Denmark, Portugal, Austria, France, UK, Norway, Romania, Luxembourg, Latvia, Serbia, Lithuania.
Other Countries: USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore, China, Hong Kong.

With Knowledge Test Only

Singapore driving license holders must complete the Knowledge Test before transfer.

License from Authorized Country but Different Nationality

Complete both Knowledge Test and Practical Driving Test.

License from Non-Authorized Countries

Visit Emirates Driving Company (Street No. 17, Abu Dhabi; Phone: +971 600 588880).
Open a driving file and attend basic driving lessons (10–30 hours based on experience).
Pass the theory and practical tests to qualify for the Abu Dhabi driving license.

Fees

Dhs 200 – License transfer from authorized countries.
Dhs 830 – Driving course fee (if lessons are required).
Dhs 50 – Theory test fee (if applicable).

License Validity

2 years for applicants aged 21 or older.
1 year for applicants aged 18–21.

Processing Time

For authorized-country transfers: Same-day service in most cases.
For applicants requiring tests or lessons: Varies based on training and test scheduling.

Need for the Document

A local driving license is mandatory for residents and citizens in Abu Dhabi. Transferring your foreign license ensures:

Compliance with UAE traffic regulations.
Hassle-free vehicle registration and insurance.
Avoidance of penalties for driving without a valid local license.

Other Uses of the License

Acts as an official form of identification in Abu Dhabi.
Can be used for renting vehicles, applying for vehicle insurance, and other government-related services.

Helpful Tips

Always check the latest requirements on the Abu Dhabi Police or Emirates Driving Company websites before visiting.
Schedule your eye test in advance to save time.
Ensure your foreign license is valid and not expired before submission.