Planning a getaway in Dubai and considering taking the wheel while abroad? Before you hit the road, it's crucial to verify whether your destination country mandates an International Driving Licence (IDL) or International Driving Permit (IDP) for foreign visitors. The IDP, a globally recognized travel document overseen by the United Nations, grants you the privilege to drive in a foreign land. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of obtaining an International Driving License online for your driving adventures abroad.
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)
If you possess a Dubai or UAE driver's license and intend to drive in certain foreign countries, it's crucial to be aware of the requirement for an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your local license.
An IDP is a mandatory document recognized under the United Nations Convention. It grants drivers the legal authority to operate their vehicles outside the UAE without the necessity of undergoing additional testing or paperwork. This permit usually remains valid for a year and can be conveniently obtained through several authorized sources within the UAE. Ensure you have an IDP to drive confidently abroad.
If you are planning to obtain an International Driving Licence (IDL) in the UAE? Fortunately, the process has become remarkably convenient, as you can now apply for it online through various platforms. Here's a simple guide to assist you:
1. UAE's Ministry of Interior (MOI) Mobile App - 'MOI UAE'
• Start by downloading the 'MOI UAE' app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
• Log in using your UAE Pass.
• On the app's homepage, navigate to 'International Driving Licence' under the 'Most Used Services' category. Tap the green plus sign icon at the bottom right of your mobile screen.
• Select your nationality, the emirate where your driving licence was issued, and your licence type (e.g., light motor vehicle, motorcycle, heavy vehicle).
• Provide your mobile number and email address, and attach a passport-sized photograph with a white background.
• Review the total fees for your licence and under that you need to select ‘Add Address’ and add your address details.
• Make the payment securely using your debit or credit card.
• After submission, you'll receive email and SMS notifications confirming your application.
Processing time for receiving International Driving Licence (IDL): As per information from the MOI call centre at 8005000, you can expect your IDL to be delivered to you within a timeframe ranging from one week to 14 days.
Service Fees:
• The International Driving Licence fee is AED 170.
• There is also a AED 8.50 fee for the delivery of the licence."
2. The customer applies for the service through RTA website
Who Can Apply: This service is open to individuals, including citizens and residents, who possess a valid driving licence issued in Dubai.
Necessary Documentation: To apply, you'll need your valid Dubai-issued driving licence and a valid Emirates ID.
Fees: AED 177 for licence issuance fees and AED 20 for knowledge and innovation fees.
Processing Time: The entire process typically takes just 5 minutes.
How To Apply for IDL Through The RTA website
• Go to the RTA website click on the link.
• Provide licence details: enter one of the following details: Emirates ID number and its expiry date, Number plate, or Traffic code number (TC Number) then click next.
• The system verifies the customer’s identity by sending an OTP to the phone number registered in the system.
• Verify your personal details and driving licence details. Click 'edit' if you need to make any changes.
• Next, upload your passport-sized photograph with a white background.
• Provide your address details.
• The customer settles the required fees.
• The customer receives an SMS within 2 working days with a link to display the digital international driving licence, until he receives the original copy of the new licence.
• The customer receives the original copy of the new licence through 2 channels:
1. Customer Happiness Centre Deira or Customer Happiness Centre Al Barsha
2. Courier company with additional charges:
- Normal delivery: AED 20
- Same day delivery: AED 35
- Delivery within 2 hours: AED 50
- International delivery: AED 50
3. The Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) Website - www.atcuae.ae
• To obtain your International Driving License (IDL) through the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE), you can follow these simple steps:
• Visit the ATCUAE's official website.
• Complete the application form provided on the website.
• Once you've filled out the form, you'll be on your way to obtaining your International Driving License.
• You have two options for receiving your IDL:
a. You can choose to collect your IDL in person at the ATCUAE Office in Dubai, and this service is free of charge.
b. Alternatively, you can opt to have your IDL sent to the address you provide. Please note that there is a shipping fee of 15 AED for this option.
• The processing time for your IDL is typically within 3 to 5 working days.
Note: When traveling, it is essential to have your current UAE driver's license with you. To enhance security, we advise keeping your IDL (International Driving License) and UAE driver's license separate during your travels.
List of Countries Where Dubai & UAE Driving Licenses Are Valid:
Africa
• Algeria
• Ethiopia
• Ghana
• Kenya
• Madagascar
• Morocco
• Seychelles
• South Africa
• Tunisia
• Yemen
Asia
• Armenia
• Azerbaijan
• Bahrain
• Brunei
• Bangladesh
• China
• Georgia
• Hong Kong
• India
• Indonesia
• Iran
• Iraq
• Israel
• Japan
• Jordan
• Kazakhstan
• Kuwait
• Lebanon
• Macau
• Malaysia
• Mongolia
• Oman
• Pakistan
• Philippines
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Singapore
• South Korea
• Sri Lanka
• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• Uzbekistan
• Vietnam
Europe
• Austria
• Belarus
• Belgium
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Russia
• Serbia
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Ukraine
• United Kingdom
North America
• Canada
• Mexico
• Puerto Rico
• United States
South America
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Ecuador
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Jamaica
• Panama
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Trinidad & Tobago
• Uruguay
• Venezuela
Oceania
• Australia
• Fiji
Also Read:
How To Renew Your Dubai Driving Licence In Less Than 10 Minutes
How To Get Advance Car Insurance When Driving From Saudi Arabia To UAE
Easy Access To Digital Driving Licences: RTA Introduces Convenient E-Card Feature
How To Convert Your Driving License To A UAE Driving License Online
Driving In The UAE: How To Get A UAE Driving License