Dubai Driving Licence Renewal: Fees, Process, and Fines

Timely renewal of a driving licence in the Emirate of Dubai is required to remain legally eligible to drive, avoid penalties, and maintain uninterrupted access to a personal or rented vehicle. For every motorist, keeping documents up to date helps ensure compliance with local regulations and provides peace of mind on the road. 

In 2026, authorities continue to enforce strict regulations, so failing to renew your driving license on time may result in fines or temporary driving bans. This applies to residents, expats, and special categories, such as diplomats, who must follow defined procedures. Once the process is done, drivers officially receive their licence and can continue driving without restrictions. 

This article is a step-by-step guide written to help residents and expatriates understand the renewal process clearly and efficiently.

QUICK GUIDE: Dubai Driving Licence Renewal

Driving licence renewal in Dubai is mandatory to continue driving legally and avoid fines.

• Who can renew: Residents and expats aged 21+, with a valid Emirates ID, residence visa, and a licence within the renewal period.
• Required documents: Emirates ID and an RTA-approved eye test (additional documents only for special cases).
• How to renew: Online via the RTA website or Dubai Drive App (fastest), at RTA Customer Happiness Centers, or through self-service kiosks.
• Fees and Prices: AED 300-320 (21+), plus AED 20 knowledge fee and AED 140-180 for the eye test.
• Late renewal penalty: AED 10 per month, capped at AED 500.
• Important notes: Renewal is possible up to 6 months before expiry.

Renew early, complete the eye test in advance, and use digital RTA services to keep your licence valid without interruptions.

Economy cars

7 seater cars

Convertible cars

Sports cars

SUVs

See all

Who Can Renew a Driving Licence in Dubai

To renew a driving licence in Dubai, all applicants must meet the following basic requirements:

• A valid Emirates ID confirming identity and residency status
• An active residence visa
• The minimum legal age of 21 years old
• A driving licence that is still valid or within the allowed renewal period

In some cases, additional documents or guidelines may apply:

• Special qualification requirements apply when the mother is Emirati.
• Requests to update personal information must be made if there are changes.
• Procedures are in place for replacing the licence if it is lost or damaged.

Documents Required for Licence Renewal

To avoid delays, it is important to prepare all required documents in advance and make sure they meet current service requirements. Having everything ready significantly shortens processing time. The documents needed for most applicants include:

• A valid Emirates ID
• An approved eye test result issued by an RTA-authorized center

Additional paperwork may be required in specific cases:

• A medical report is required for drivers with specific health conditions or special statuses (visual impairments, chronic medical conditions, people of determination, or age-related health requirements).
• A letter from the ministry for diplomats or other government-related categories, including people of determination

Preparing all documents before applying helps guarantee a fast and obstacle-free renewal and avoids unnecessary follow-ups.

Eye Test Requirements and Validity

An eye examination is necessary to complete the medical fitness assessment for renewing a driving license in Dubai.

It applies to all drivers renewing their licence (regardless of experience or vehicle category) and is conducted separately from standard driving tests.

The purpose of the eye test is to confirm that a driver meets minimum vision standards necessary for safe driving, including acceptable eyesight for night driving, the ability to judge distance, and the ability to react to road signs.

Eye test results are typically valid for 1 year. However, in some instances, they may be issued for 1 year if you’re younger, depending on age-related renewal rules and licence validity periods.

RTA-Approved Eye Test Centers in Dubai

An eye test for licence renewal can only be conducted at RTA-approved or officially certified locations. These include authorized driving institutes and selected optical centers connected to the RTA driving system, guaranteeing that test results are transmitted electronically without additional paperwork.

Information on approved providers is available on official government platforms, including the Ministry of the Interior (MOI) website. Certified eye test centers are conveniently distributed across Dubai, making it easy to choose a nearby location regardless of where you live or work.

Ways to Renew Your Driving Licence in Dubai

There are multiple ways to apply for a licence renewal. If you prefer a digital approach or in-person support, the renewal process in Dubai is designed to be quick, convenient, and straightforward. Following the correct renewal process is the fastest way for drivers to avoid delays, while renewing their driving licence ahead of expiry keeps them compliant with local laws. Options include renewal online. You’re applying for a licence online, requesting an electronic licence through the RTA, or visiting a center to process a licence through the RTA in person.

Online Renewal via RTA Website or App

Renewing your licence online is a straightforward option that can be done from home in 4 simple steps:

• Log in via UAE Pass
• Upload your approved eye test results
• Complete the payment online
• Choose the delivery method for your new card

This process allows you to receive a digital license. Follow all steps and provide all necessary documents to make sure the driving licence is issued promptly. You can request a new license, add a category, complete the renewal, and even receive an SMS confirmation once the process is finalized.

Dubai Drive Mobile Application

The Dubai Drive App provides a quick, mobile-optimized option for drivers who want to manage their licenses conveniently on the move.

• The application provides mobility, speed, and convenience
• Using the Dubai drive mobile application is ideal for frequent users who need instant updates
• It is linked to the transport authority, and the licence through the RTA Dubai app is fully recognized
• Exceptional cases are coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

RTA Customer Happiness Centers

For those who prefer offline assistance:

• Visit in person and receive help from the staff. If anything is unclear, please get full clarification before signing or submitting any requests. 
• Visiting RTA customer happiness centers is suitable for complicated or exceptional cases
• Offline help is perfect for those who use self-service machines or complete renewal without needing extensive paperwork
• This approach makes the process simple and stress-free

Self-Service Kiosks

Self-service kiosks provide a quick and efficient option:

• Conveniently located across Dubai
• Easy to use for routine licence renewals
• Accept various payment options, including required fees, knowledge and innovation fees, and standard payment methods.
• Costs start from AED amounts, depending on the services chosen.

Driving Licence Renewal Fees

The cost of renewing a driving licence in Dubai depends on the type of service selected. A basic fee covers the standard renewal, while additional services, such as express processing or home delivery, may incur additional charges.

It is important to avoid driving with an expired licence, as this can result in penalty points on your driving record in addition to fines. Paying the required fees on time ensures uninterrupted access to your vehicle and avoids penalties.

Understanding the costs helps you plan and avoid surprises.

Standard renewal fees:

• Drivers 21 and over: AED 300-320
• Drivers under 21: AED 100-120
• Knowledge and Innovation Fee: AED 20 (applies to all applicants)

Eye tests and medical costs are mandatory for most renewals and are conducted at RTA-approved centers. The cost ranges from AED 140 to 180.

Optional services include courier or home delivery of the license card: AED 25, and on-site or mobile eye test services with additional fees up to AED 500 (optional).

Late Renewal Penalties cost AED 10 per month after expiry, with a maximum penalty of AED 500. Avoid driving with an expired licence or accumulating black points.

Outstanding fines must be paid before renewal, and extended expiration may require additional tests and fees.

Fines and Penalties for Late Renewal

In Dubai, it’s crucial to renew your driving licence on time to avoid fines and maintain your driving rights. 

If a licence expires, authorities can issue fines for late renewal, which grow progressively with the length of the delay. 

Small delays might incur minor charges, but longer delays can lead to more serious administrative issues. 

There’s a maximum limit on these fines to prevent indefinite penalties, yet any delay can cause complications. Besides the financial cost, late renewal can result in temporary restrictions on vehicle use and may require extra administrative steps to restore a valid licence. The main goal of these penalties is to encourage drivers to renew their licences promptly. Renewing on time not only avoids fines and hassles but also promotes safe driving and compliance with UAE traffic laws.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Licence Renewal

To make the process smooth and avoid unnecessary stress, follow these practical tips:

• Don’t delay the renewal process: Start the renewal process within 6 months of your licence expiry to guarantee ample time for documentation and any additional requirements. Avoid letting your licence expire, as late fees and administrative steps can complicate the renewal process.
• Always check fines in advance: Review any outstanding fines or issues on your driving record before starting the renewal. Addressing them early prevents delays and ensures a smoother experience.
• Choose the right channel and renewal option: Decide whether to renew your driving license online, through mobile applications, self-service kiosks, or in person at RTA centers. Selecting the most convenient method saves time and effort.

Driving After Renewal and Car Rental Options

Once the licence is renewed, drivers can use their personal vehicles and rental cars freely across Dubai. A renewed UAE driving licence guarantees full compliance with traffic regulations, while a digital driving licence allows convenient proof of eligibility at all times. This includes the use of rental services, allowing drivers to start their journeys immediately without owning a vehicle.

Leading rental providers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, such as Octane.Rent, offer flexible solutions with various delivery method options, including home or office drop-off, and reliable delivery service across the city.

Overall, the process of renewing a licence in Dubai is straightforward and primarily digital. Planning ahead and completing all steps on time guarantees quick access to vehicles and promotes UAE driving license compliance. For any questions, view the FAQs to avoid delays and maintain uninterrupted driving privileges. If you need a reliable option during this period, you can rent a car in Dubai with Octane.Rent and maintain uninterrupted driving while all formalities are completed.