Getting your driver's license in Abu Dhabi is the first step toward a world of opportunities. The process can initially seem intimidating, regardless of whether you're a resident ready to explore the city or a newcomer wanting the freedom of mobility. This guide will walk you through all the information you need to know to make the application process go more smoothly including eligibility requirements, necessary paperwork, exam procedures etc.

Eligibility Criteria for Abu Dhabi Driver's License

Before you may navigate the quaint streets of the city, you must fulfil the requirements to be eligible to receive a driver's license. 

• You must be an registered UAE resident
• Driving a car or light vehicle requires you to be at least 18
• To obtain a motorcycle license, you must be 17 years old or older
• The minimum age requirement for obtaining a commercial driver's license for large vehicles, like trucks or tractors, is 20 years old
• The minimum age to obtain a commercial bus driving licence is 21 years old

If you meet the legal age requirements and are in good health, you can apply for an Abu Dhabi driving license.

Documents required for Abu Dhabi Driver’s License:

There is more to obtaining your Abu Dhabi license than just meeting the requirements for qualifying. It also involves obtaining the paperwork required to verify your identification and guarantee a seamless application process. Let's examine the extensive list of necessary paperwork so you may proceed with confidence through this crucial stage before getting on the road. 
 

• One recent, immaculate passport-sized photo 
• Your passport, both the original and a photocopy, as identification documentation 
• An essential document for UAE residents is your Emirates ID. 
• If applicable, both the original and a photocopy of your foreign driver's license 
  a copy of your current Abu Dhabi residency visa, which attests to your right to be in the city 
• A No Objection Certificate from your employer or the sponsor of your visa attesting to their acceptance of your application for a driver's license 
• A translation of your international driver's license into Arabic (for expats only) 
• Make sure your residency visa is valid for at least six months before applying for a driving license in the United Arab Emirates. 

You must go through the procedure to obtain an Abu Dhabi driving license after meeting the qualifying requirements and obtaining the necessary paperwork.

Procedure required for Abu Dhabi Driver’s License:

You must meet certain requirements and complete a number of stages in order to obtain your driving license in Abu Dhabi.  
 

1. Take an Eye Test

Visit an Abu Dhabi-based licensed optician approved by the traffic and licensing authority to start the process of getting your eyes tested. During the examination, a valid Emirates ID must be brought with you.

Charges: AED 100 for the eye test.
 

2. Set Up a Traffic File 

You can easily start the process by opening a traffic file via the Abu Dhabi Police mobile application, the official Abu Dhabi Government services platform, or the TAMM portal. Both systems allow you to create your content online.

To apply via TAMM or Abu Dhabi Police, you need to upload the following files:

1. Emirates ID
2. Eye Test Certificate
3. Personal Photo
 

3. Pass the theory exam and finish your internal training

Visit the Emirate Driving Company (EDC) with your traffic file number after you have successfully opened your file. At the EDC, you will register for theory lessons and the associated exam. You will also need to enroll in internal practical training, also referred to as parking and yard lessons.

The following are the necessary paperwork you must bring: 
1. Emirates ID
2. Passport 
3. Residence Visa
4. Traffic File Number
5. Most Current Personal Photo 

For your Abu Dhabi driver's license if you are under 17, you must obtain the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your guardian. For those who are 18 years of age or older, this restriction does not apply.

4. Get a Training Permit and Set Up a Date for the Road Test

Setting up a date for your road test is crucial before you start driving instruction. Here's how to use the TAMM portal to achieve this: 

1. Visit the TAMM website
2. Enter your UAE Pass credentials to log in. 
3. Press "Start" to begin the procedure. 
4. Your UAE Pass will automatically fill up your personal details, which will be shown. 
5. Your traffic file number should be entered in the designated field. 
6. Verify the driving test location that was selected, per Step 2. 
7. Make the final payment for the cost of the Abu Dhabi license. 
8. Soon after the date and location of the scheduled driving test are confirmed, you will receive an SMS. 

After you successfully reserve a date for your driving test, you will also obtain a training permit card. You can start your external road training, or external practical training, which entails the necessary practical driving lessons, as soon as the road test is arranged.
 

6. Pass the Road Test with Success 

As stated when your traffic file is opened, you will need to visit the designated branch of the traffic licensing department in Abu Dhabi after finishing the external road training. This branch will administer the road test to evaluate your practical driving abilities. Once the road test is completed successfully, you can obtain your driver's license.

7. Get a driver's license 

You can get your driving license once you've fulfilled all the prerequisites and passed the road test. To pick up your driver's license, you have two choices: 
Your driving license will be issued to you in one of two ways: 

E-Driving License Card: You will receive an electronic copy of your driving license card over SMS or email at the address you have registered. You can access the electronic version of the Abu Dhabi Police app via RTA. 

Physical Driver's License Card: After passing the road test, the RTA issues the card in ten days. It will be available for pickup at the agreed-upon location. 

By following these steps, you will complete the road test and obtain your driving licence, enabling you to enjoy driving around in Abu Dhabi.

Best Driving Schools in Abu Dhabi

The following driving schools in Abu Dhabi are renowned for their quality education and commitment to road safety and ensure your success on the roads.

Emirates Driving Company

• Address: Sector # M34, Mussaffah Industrial Area, Mussaffah, Abu Dhabi
• Phone Number: +971 2 5511911

Al Kamal Motor Driving School

• Address: Central District, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Phone Number: +971 3 7643824

Al Karamah Driving School

• Address: Near Royal Rotary Hotel Apartments, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi
• Phone Number: +971 3 7656261

Al Omran Driving School

• Address: Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Shabiya 12, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Phone Number: +971 2 6727134

Sun Rise Driving School

• Address: Musaffah - M-11, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Contact Numbers: +971 2 4432503, +971 2 4431883

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the costs of obtaining a driving license in Abu Dhabi?

1. Eye test: AED 100
2. Traffic file opening: AED 100
3. Theory training at EDC: Starting at AED 830 with an additional AED 50 for the test.
4. Practical test fee: Depends on skill level, number of classes, and chosen school. According to EDC, the estimated cost for beginners is a minimum of AED 2,705.
5. Training permit issuance: AED 100
6. Practical driving test: AED 200
7. Driving licence issuance: AED 315
8. Conversion of driving licence to Emirati: AED 250

The mentioned prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the individual's requirements.

Is the RTA road test difficult?
The difficulty level of the test can vary from person to person as it depends on your skills, preparation, and confidence. The RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) road test assesses your practical driving abilities, including maneuvering, following traffic rules, and safe driving.

How many times can I fail the RTA road test?
There are no minimum or maximum number of attempts for the Abu Dhabi driving licence.

How often should I renew my Abu Dhabi driving license?
Driving licenses can be renewed for 10 years for UAE and GCC citizens and 5 years for residents. Before renewing your driving license, ensure all traffic fines are paid.