How to Get your Driver’s License in Abu Dhabi + 2024 Requirements

Have you looked up “driving license Abu Dhabi processes” online? Do not be concerned; we have everything you require right here! Just like the Dubai driving license guide we posted before, we will inform you thoroughly. Now, obtaining an Abu Dhabi driver’s license is a major accomplishment. Having a license makes life quite simple for the city’s residents who live in reasonably priced properties for sale in Abu Dhabi. This is because you don’t always need to rely on public transit for commuting. We offer all the detailed information you need to get a driving license in Abu Dhabi.

The Complete Guide to Getting a Driving License in Abu Dhabi

“How to get a license in Abu Dhabi?” This is a question that every Abu Dhabi resident asks themselves after they turn 18.

The majority of Abu Dhabi residents obtain their driver’s licenses after they turn 18. Eighteen is the minimum age for a driving license in Abu Dhabi. Not only can having a driver’s license make life easier, but it may also improve your professional standing. This is particularly if you’re seeking sales positions. But it’s not always an easy process. To work, many people from other nations go to the UAE. To ensure that the procedure goes well and that you receive your driving license in Abu Dhabi, it is essential to understand it all before beginning.

This Abu Dhabi driving license guide outlines the step-by-step procedure that will help you earn your Abu Dhabi driving license, from the minimum age to drive to the number of exams one must pass. People who want to invest here and get a UAE golden visa may find it beneficial to get a driver’s license in Abu Dhabi. Having a driver’s license will make it easier for them to commute around the city and explore the different investment opportunities that the UAE has to offer.

Eligibility Criteria for A Driving License in Abu Dhabi

In Abu Dhabi, anyone over the legal age and in good health can apply for a new driver’s license. Depending on the car you wish to drive, Abu Dhabi has different driving age requirements.

• Applicants who want to drive cars and light vehicles must be 18 years old.
• Those who have special needs and drive vehicles and motorcycles must be at least 17 years old.
• Those driving tractors and large vehicles need to be at least 20 years old.
• Those looking to become Bus drivers must be 21 and above.

In addition, to get your driver’s license, you have to apply to a driving institute in Abu Dhabi to attend driving training classes. Don’t forget to pass all your exams to become a perfect driver. Your driving license in Abu Dhabi is valid for 2 years; make the most of it!

Applicant’s Categories and Eligibility for a Driving License Abu Dhabi

There are two subcategories of applicants for driving licenses in Abu Dhabi:

• First-time applicants from the Emirate or from abroad
• Foreign-licensed residents who are ex-pats must decide to which group they belong because the procedures for the two might vary.

In addition, if you are worried about new driving license rules in Abu Dhabi, here are the complete rules for eligibility for a driving license in Abu Dhabi:

If you are of legal age and physically healthy, there is no need to worry because you have the basic requirements to get a driving license in Abu Dhabi. The rest of the conditions are as follows:

• for driving motorcycles and vehicles for people with special needs: minimum 17 years
• for driving cars and light vehicles: minimum 18 years’ old
• for driving heavy vehicles and tractors: minimum 20 years’ old
• for driving buses: minimum 21 years’ old

Documents Needed for Obtaining a Driving License in Abu Dhabi

In Abu Dhabi, the following documentation is necessary to obtain a driving license:

• One passport-size picture
• Original and photocopies of passports
• Emirate’s ID
• Original and photocopy of a foreign driver’s license
• A photocopy of a current Abu Dhabi residence visa
• A NOC from your sponsoring organization or employer
• Translation of an international driver’s license to Arabic

Make sure your resident visa has a minimum validity of six months when providing a copy of it. Here is how to inquire about your UAE visa status.

Residents with a Foreign License from Approved Countries Transferring Their License in Abu Dhabi

If you have a foreign driver’s license already, it will probably be easier for you. People with a driving license from one of the following nations are eligible for a simpler process from the government of Abu Dhabi: GCC Countries, Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Greece, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, South Africa, Sweden, Spain, South Korean, Switzerland, Turkey, Ireland, UK, and the USA. Here, you don’t need to pass any exams to get a license in Abu Dhabi.

* You will be regarded as a first-time candidate if you do not already possess a license from one of these nations.

Transfer of Foreign Licenses in Abu Dhabi for Residents of Approved Countries

If you have a foreign driver’s license already, it will probably be easier for you. People with a driving license from one of the following nations are eligible for a simple process from the government of Abu Dhabi: GCC Countries, Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Greece, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, South Africa, Sweden, Spain, South Korea, Switzerland, Turkey, Ireland, UK, and the USA. Here, you don’t need to pass any exams to get the license in Abu Dhabi.

* You will be regarded as a first-time candidate if you do not already possess a license from one of these nations.

Transferring International Driving License Abu Dhabi

If you already possess a driver’s license from one of the nations mentioned earlier, it can be transferred. You won’t need to apply for a new one in Abu Dhabi.

To receive an Arabic translation for your foreign license, the first step is to go to an official typing or translation center. Visit the license center with the required paperwork (details below). You may take your Abu Dhabi driving license eye exam here, along with other prerequisites. In Abu Dhabi, you will receive your driving license if your eye exam is satisfactory.

Total Cost to Convert Driving License in Abu Dhabi

You will be charged AED 250 for the full procedure. If you’re one of the lucky ones, this will end your guide to getting an Abu Dhabi driving license. But if you’re preparing to receive your first Abu Dhabi license or don’t have a license from one of those nations, keep reading our guide to getting an Abu Dhabi license.

How to Get a Driving License in Abu Dhabi for the First-Time Applicants?

If you’re just getting started, you’ll need a learning permit before you can begin your driving career. To do this, you must pass a theoretical exam. You must first visit Emirates Driving Company and start a driving file. You can take theoretical classes as a result.

The eight tests you must pass to receive a license are administered by Emirates Driving Company.

• Lesson one: Road markings, traffic rules, and road signs.
• Lesson two: Within the city borders.
• Lesson three: Outside of the city.
• Lesson four: driving under challenging circumstances.
• Lesson five: Critical circumstances.
• Lesson six: Driving habits and road manners.
• Lesson seven: Knowledge of vehicles.
• Lesson eight: Safety.

After two hours of instruction, trainees take a theoretical exam before applying for a learning permit.

Once they get their learning permit, drivers can take classes to put their theory into practice. You must visit the Emirates Driving Company in Abu Dhabi and open a driving file in your name before starting your training.

Emirates Driving Company, the First Driving school in Abu Dhabi That is Officially Recognized

EDC is Abu Dhabi’s first officially recognized driving school and traffic safety center. It is a government-owned public company jointly held by Abu Dhabi. EDC offers a team of qualified instructors that teach classes for all Abu Dhabi driver’s licenses. These classes include light vehicles, motorcycles, heavy vehicles, and heavy buses. They run facilities in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, and Mussafah. The Majid Al Futtaim group IS also close by if you are looking at buying a house or apartment in the area.

Documents Needed at Emirates Driving Company in Abu Dhabi for Training

Only the applicant’s Emirates ID is required for locals. However, foreign nationals residing in Abu Dhabi must produce the following identification:

• Having an Emirates ID (copy and original)
• Having a passport with a visa page (copy)
• Photos that are passport-sized (at least 8)
• The sponsor’s No Objection Certificate (NOC)
• Results of your eye examination

Abu Dhabi Driving License Theory Test

There are a total of 35 questions, all of which are aimed at determining how well you comprehend domestic driving regulations. Three sections comprise the test:

• 17 questions on traffic scenarios – a minimum of 11 accurate responses required for passing.
• A Minimum of 12 right answers are required to pass the 18 questions concerning the details of the Abu Dhabi driving license.
• The third section is about Recognizing Risks; you will be shown a number of movies depicting environmental situations, and you will be required to suggest remedies.

* The test can be taken in Arabic or English. You can take an oral exam if you are not fluent in either language.

A Few Tips for Theory Test When Trying to Get a Driving License in Abu Dhabi

Below are a few extra tips to consider while applying for a driving license in Abu Dhabi:

• Comply with the driver’s manual
• Keep in mind all traffic and road signs.
• Use the online practice exam to get ready.

Cost of Theory Test in Abu Dhabi

The classes will cost you AED 830. In addition, the test costs an extra AED 50.

Practical Driving Course in Getting Your Driver’s License in Abu Dhabi

Candidates pass through intensive practical training utilizing simulators and other practical teachings after passing the theoretical test. The parking exam comes immediately after the theoretical test. Immediately after, you must take a road test. Depending on how much work you need to do to attain the target level, the number of sessions will vary. All instruction takes place in a driving rink safe for beginning drivers.

The Price of an Emirates Driving Company Driving Course in Abu Dhabi

The price might range from AED 650 to 2250, depending on the number of sessions needed. For novices, it usually takes 30 hours. Anyone who has driven before may pick it up in 10 to 20 hours.

The Practical Test for Getting a Driving License in Abu Dhabi

An “attestation of preparedness” will be issued to you after the instructor determines that you are prepared for your test. To sign up for the Road Test or the Practical Test, a certificate is required. The most challenging element of this process to get your Abu Dhabi license is the practical exam. You will have between 10 and 12 minutes to demonstrate your driving prowess to the examiner. The examiner will inform you of the results immediately. If you don’t pass, you have to spend another seven hours of instruction.

If you succeed, you will be given an approval paper. This paper you may then present to the Pass Counter together with your identification and the Abu Dhabi Licence charge. In the photo section, snap a snapshot of yourself, and presto! Your driving permit for Abu Dhabi will be ready in the next fifteen minutes. Here are other information you’ll need in your process:

Abu Dhabi Driving License Practical Test Fees

The entire cost of the exam would be AED 250, including AED 50 for the practical test registration fee and AED 200 for the license issue.

Documents Required for Practical Test in Abu Dhabi for Driving

You’ll be assigned a day and time for the test. Please bring a valid Emirates ID card, a driving file, and 2 passport-sized photographs when you arrive on time.

Practical Test Tips for Driving License Abu Dhabi

The following are a few useful tips for the practical exam, so make sure to consider the following tips before gaining an Abu Dhabi driver’s license:

• Make sure to dress formally
• Avoid wearing sunglasses while driving since examiners will be watching your eye movements
• Avoid talking unnecessarily to the examiner
• Obey the given instructions
• Make sure to adjust your seat and mirrors, and then strap on your seat belt before starting the car
• Before you begin, check the gear and handbrake
• Drive sensibly and within the legal speed limit
• Be mindful to focus on the traffic signs.
• Maintain a safe gap between your car and the one in front of you.
• Take a quick peek in your side and rearview mirrors before changing lanes.
• Make sure to use the indicator before attempting to change lanes
• Only use your brakes in an emergency
• When directed, pull the automobile over to the side.

Rules of the Road to Consider While Having a Driver’s License in Abu Dhabi

Obviously, with driving comes responsibility; thus, you need to understand the rules of the road thoroughly for a safe drive both for you and others. Examples of significant driving laws everyone should know include the following:

• Children under the age of 10 should not ride in the front seat of a car
• High-beam lights are only necessary to increase the visibility in front on highways without overhead lighting (not for signaling)
• No matter how much alcohol is consumed, driving is not permitted (prescribed medicines should be checked with a doctor or pharmacist)
• Driving should not be done while using a mobile phone
• It is forbidden to overtake when visibility is limited
• Seatbelts are required for the driver and front-seat passenger
• Speed limits must have been adhered to properly

Other General Information You Should Know About While Driving in Abu Dhabi

Zebra crossings and traffic lights are the only places pedestrians can cross the street; otherwise, they risk receiving a Dhs200 fine for jaywalking. Additionally, if you change lanes without indicating, you will be fined Dhs 200. Another thing to remember is that pedestrians have the right of way at zebra crossings. You should also know traffic infractions result in black points, and drivers who accumulate 24 black points lose their licenses.

If there is no question as to who was at fault for the collision, you can move the vehicles to the side of the road. It is advisable to keep the automobiles in place until the police show up if there is any question as to who is at fault. Another noteworthy thing is that you will receive a pink form if you are in an accident, and it is your responsibility. Your slip will be green if you are found to be blame-free.

In addition, it doesn’t matter if you are from GCC nationals or other countries; your new driver’s license is only valid for 2 years. However, if you are a citizen, your driver’s license has a 10-year validity. Moreover, there’s perfect news for United Arab Emirates citizens. Motorists who get their driver’s license in the United Arab Emirates and pass all the tests, if they immigrate to the UK, they no longer need to take the driving test and get a new license. Isn’t that wonderful? Enjoy the UAE driving license new rules.

How to Get a Driving License in Abu Dhabi?

That’s all; this was a guide to getting a driving license in Abu Dhabi. As you can see, Abu Dhabi driver testing and licensing are not that complicated. You just have to follow these steps carefully to get your license. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and have passed all the tests. Once you have done that, you can collect your license.

Although Abu Dhabi and Dubai have relatively efficient public transportation systems, owning a car makes life easier; here’s a guide to getting to Abu Dhabi from Dubai. Dxboffplan is the perfect platform for seeking UAE off-plan properties and getting full information on everything there is to know about UAE. We offer an easy and efficient way to search and purchase off-plan projects in the UAE without any hassle.