International Driving License Dubai: Requirements and How to Get One

Whether you need an international driving license in Dubai depends on where your licence was issued and whether you are a visitor or a resident. This guide explains who needs one, what to bring, how to get it and how to rent a car with Euroline Rent A Car without delays at the counter.

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Do You Need an International Driving License in Dubai?

It depends on two things: which country issued your licence, and whether you are visiting or living in the UAE.

• Visitors on a tourist or visit visa: You can drive on your home licence if it is from a country the UAE recognises. If it is not, you must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) together with your original licence.

• UAE residents: A foreign licence or IDP stops being enough once your residence visa is issued. You need a UAE driving licence.

• UAE licence holders travelling abroad: The RTA issues an international driving licence for use outside the UAE. This is a different document from the IDP a visitor brings to Dubai.

The name causes confusion, so here is the difference in one place:

An IDP is not a licence on its own. It is a translation of your home licence and is only valid when carried with it.

Driving in Dubai with a Foreign License Now

Visitors can drive across all seven emirates on a valid foreign licence, as long as it meets the current Dubai rules. The UAE recognises licences from around 50 countries for visitors, and the exact list is maintained by the RTA and changes from time to time.

Three rules apply to every visitor:

• Your licence must be valid and in your name. An expired licence, or an IDP without the original licence, is not accepted.

• Your licence needs to be in English or Arabic. If it is not, carry an IDP that translates it.

• Visitor rules end when you become a resident. Once a residence visa is issued, you must switch to a UAE licence before driving again, however much time is left on your IDP.

Not sure where your country sits? Send us a photo of your licence on WhatsApp and we will tell you before you travel.

International Driving License Requirements Dubai

Requirements differ slightly between visitors and residents. Our team confirms the exact list for your booking.

Visitors on a tourist or visit visa

• Original driving licence from your home country, valid and unexpired

• International Driving Permit, if your country is not on the recognised list (a printed IDP; the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna formats are both common)

• Passport and a valid visit visa or entry stamp

• A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit

UAE residents applying for an RTA international driving licence (to drive abroad)

• A valid UAE driving licence (temporary or interim licences are not eligible)

• Emirates ID and passport

• A recent passport-size photo, where the service point asks for one

• The service fee (AED 197 for Dubai licence holders at the time of writing)

Good to know

• An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, and never longer than your original licence.

• Rental companies often want your underlying licence to be at least one year old.

• Supercar and luxury rentals may set a higher minimum age or driving experience than a standard car.

How to Get an International Driving License in Dubai

The route depends on who you are. The most important point: the UAE does not issue an IDP to visitors. If you need one to drive in Dubai, you must get it in the country that issued your licence, before you fly.

If you are a visitor

1. Check whether your licence is on the recognised list (see above), or ask us on WhatsApp.

2. If it is not, apply for an IDP in your home country through the authorised motoring association or licensing office. Many issue it over the counter in minutes, and fees are usually around the equivalent of USD 20 to 25.

3. Bring your original licence, passport photos and the fee.

4. Carry the IDP and your original licence together at all times in Dubai.

If you are a UAE resident driving abroad

1. Make sure you hold a valid UAE driving licence.

2. Apply for the international driving licence on the RTA website, the RTA app or a smart kiosk. The Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) and Emirates Post also offer the service.

3. Pay the fee. RTA currently charges AED 197 for Dubai licence holders.

4. Collect or download your permit. It is valid for one year and must be carried with your UAE licence.

Fees and processing times change, so confirm them on the RTA website before you apply.

Moving to Dubai? Switch to a UAE Licence

An IDP cannot be converted into a UAE licence, and it has no legal value for residents. Once your residence visa is stamped, you have two options:

• Exchange your licence. Residents holding a valid licence from one of the RTA-approved countries (around 50 to 57, including India, the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia and most of Europe) can swap it for a Dubai licence without lessons. You typically need your Emirates ID, the original licence, an eye test and, for some licences, a legal Arabic translation. Government fees are in the region of AED 600, but they vary by licence, so check the RTA website.

• Take the full course. If your country is not on the list, you must enrol at an RTA-approved driving institute, then pass the theory and road tests.

Until your UAE licence is issued, do not drive on your foreign licence or IDP. This also applies to rental cars.

Renting a Car in Dubai with Euroline: Licence Requirements

Having the right licence documents is the fastest way to get your car on the day you land. Here is what our team checks for every booking.

We check your licence before you arrive, so there are no surprises at handover. If you are unsure whether you need an IDP, message us your licence country on WhatsApp.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Carrying an IDP without the original licence. The IDP is only a translation and is invalid on its own.

• Planning to get an IDP after landing. Visitors cannot get one in the UAE, so arrange it at home.

• Assuming the rental desk will accept any licence. Many rental companies ask for an IDP as standard, even when the RTA would accept your home licence.

• Driving on an IDP after getting a residence visa. Switch to a UAE licence first.

• Letting your licence or IDP expire. Check both dates before you travel.

• Skipping the check on insurance. Driving without a valid licence can void your insurance cover, so confirm the terms in your rental contract.

Related reading: Avoid These 5 Mistakes While Renting a Car in Dubai and Luxury Car Rental Prices in Dubai: Why They Vary So Much.

Explore More Rental Options

Once your licence is sorted, pick the car that fits your trip:

• Everyday and family: Economy cars and Family and SUV cars for city driving and group trips.

• Luxury: Luxury cars, including the 2026 Rolls Royce Cullinan and the 2025 Cadillac Escalade.

• Sports and convertibles: Sports cars, Convertible cars, the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet and the Ferrari F8 Spider.

• Longer stays: Monthly rentals and corporate rentals.

• Deals: Check our new offers.

Why Rent From Euroline?

Euroline Rent A Car has served customers in Dubai since 2011, with a fleet that ranges from economy cars to supercars. You get clear pricing, easy booking on WhatsApp, delivery and collection in Dubai and 24/7 customer support. Learn more about Euroline or explore our services.

Ready to Book Your Car?

• Call: +971 52 711 1134

• WhatsApp: Chat with us now

• Email: Info@euroline-rental.com

• Online: Contact Us

Read more tips on our blog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an international driving license in Dubai as a tourist?

No. The UAE does not issue an IDP to visitors. Get it in the country that issued your licence before you travel.

Who can apply for an international driving license in Dubai?

UAE residents who hold a valid UAE driving licence. Apply through the RTA website, app or kiosks. It is valid for one year.

How much does an RTA international driving license cost?

RTA currently lists AED 197 for Dubai licence holders. Check the RTA website for the latest fee.

Can I drive in Dubai with a foreign license?

Yes, if you are a visitor and your licence is from a recognised country, or you carry an IDP with your original licence. Residents must hold a UAE licence.

Do I need an IDP with a US, UK or EU licence?

Usually not under the RTA rules, but many rental companies ask for one, so carrying it avoids delays.

Do Indian licence holders need an IDP in Dubai?

Yes. Visitors with an Indian licence need an IDP issued in India, carried with the original licence.

Can I rent a car in Dubai with only an IDP?

No. The IDP must be carried with your original licence.

I just got my residence visa. Can I still use my IDP?

No. You need a UAE driving licence before you drive again.

Does the IDP work in all emirates?

Yes. Visitors can drive in all seven emirates on a valid home licence and IDP.