In a city where the population density is so high and roads are often packed with bumper-to-bumper traffic, having a car is almost essential. Having your own car also gives you more mobility as a resident, and you won’t need to spend lots of money on taxis or rely on friends for lifts. But perhaps the most important thing about owning a car in Dubai is keeping your driver’s license valid. Driving licenses in Dubai must be renewed annually to ensure that drivers remain safe on the road and are not a liability to other drivers. To renew your license, you will need to apply for an Emirates Driving License (EDL) renewal card from either the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) or from any licensed car dealer who can assist you with this process. Everything you need to know about renewing your driving license in Dubai is provided here.
What is an Emirates Driving License (EDL)?
An EDL is the legal document that allows you to drive a car in Dubai and across the UAE. The current driving license format was introduced in 2007, and you will need to apply for a new license if your current license is older than 10 years. Driving license applications are handled by the RTA, which also issues driving licenses throughout the UAE. If you apply for a new EDL, you will be issued with a 10-year license and a driving record. There are two types of EDLs: an ordinary license and an international license. The international license is for non-residents who have been issued with a Dubai driving permit. You can apply for an EDL at any of the RTA driving license centers. Your driving license will be issued within seven days from the date of application.
How to renew your driving license in Dubai
If you need to renew your driver’s license, you’ll need to visit one of the RTA’s driving license centers. You’ll need to bring your old driving license, your passport and a payment of AED 120. You can also renew your license by applying through a licensed car dealer if this is more convenient for you. Car dealers can process your application and submit it to the RTA on your behalf. You may, however, need to visit the RTA driving license center within seven days of making your application, to collect your new license.
When to renew your driving license in Dubai?
You’ll need to renew your driving license on the following dates: – – 1st birthday: If you are between 18-25 years old. – 2nd birthday: If you are between 26 and 50 years old. – 3rd birthday: If you are between 51 and 65 years old. – 4th birthday: If you are between 66 and 74 years old. – 5th birthday: If you are 75 years or older
Documents required to renew your EDL
Before you visit the RTA driving license center, make sure you gather the following documents: – – Your old driving license. – Your passport. – A letter of explanation in case your driving record is poor. – A recent colored photograph of yourself (3×4 cm). – A medical examination report. – Payment of AED 120. – Besides these, you may need to submit a blood test report if your medical examination report is poor or if you have an existing medical condition.
Risks of driving with an expired license
If you fail to renew your license before the expiry date and continue to drive, you will be fined AED 2000. In addition to this, you will be barred from renewing your license and will not be able to drive in Dubai. You will be fined again if you continue to drive with an expired license. If you drive with an expired license beyond a year, your car could be impounded. You could also face additional fines, imprisonment and/or have your car confiscated.
FAQ
– Can I renew my license online? – I have a poor driving record. Can I still renew my license? – I’ve moved to Dubai from abroad. Can I drive with my old license? – I have a medical condition. Can I still renew my license? – What are the other requirements to get an EDL? – How much does it cost to renew my license? – When does my license need to be renewed again? – What happens if I fail to renew my license? – What happens if I break the driving laws in Dubai?
Renewing your Driving License in Dubai: Conclusion
Driving is a privilege, and it comes with certain responsibilities. In return, it offers you the convenience of travelling wherever you want to go, being in control of your own schedule, and having the independence of being on your own. But the privilege of driving comes with certain conditions and regulations, and one of them is to renew your license every year. This article has given you the essential information you need to know about renewing your driving license in Dubai, including how to renew your license, when to renew your license, and what documents are required. It has also discussed the risks of driving with an expired license as well as answered some frequently asked questions.
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