How To Get an International Driver’s Permit in Dubai?

Dubai residents: planning to drive abroad but don’t have an International Driver’s Permit (IDP)? Don’t worry. This guide explores how to get an International Driver’s Permit in Dubai conveniently. Whether you plan to drive through Europe or rent a car in Canada, you’ll need an International Driving Permit Dubai. Here, you'll learn everything about an IDP—from how to apply & IDP fees & costs to document requirements & processing times. Additionally, get insightful tips for a hassle-free IDP or IDL application. Let’s get you your first IDP from Dubai: 

How to get an International Driver’s Permit in Dubai?

1. Validate your eligibility & prepare required documents.

2. Select an IDP provider (RTA, ATCUAE, EDI, Emirates Post, or MOI UAE).

3. Apply for the IDP in person or online.

4. Pay the service fees with card or in cash.

5. Wait and receive the IDP.

What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

An International Driving Permit (IDP), also commonly known as International Driver’s License (IDL) is a document that translates your driver’s license into multiple languages. It confirms that you’re legally allowed to drive in your home country. This internationally recognized document helps drivers from one country drive legally in another, especially in countries that don’t recognize foreign licenses on their own.

For instance, your driver’s license is in Arabic and you travel to a country where they speak a different language, say Polish, the IDP makes sure local authorities can understand your license and know it’s valid. It doesn’t let you drive by itself—you must carry it along with your original driver’s license.

Why You Need an IDP Dubai

As mentioned earlier, the International Driving Permit is an official & globally accepted document in 150 countries as authorized by the United Nations (UN) under the 1949 Geneva Convention and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. So, this is your ticket to legally driving in foreign lands. Besides this, here are some interesting reasons why you need an IDP.

1. Legal Requirement: An IDP from the Emirates is mandatory in those countries that don’t recognize UAE driver’s license.

2. Practical Benefits: Simplifies car rental processes in foreign countries and easily communicates license details to foreign authorities, clearing the language barrier.

3. Risks Without IDP: Without it, you could face fines, be denied car rentals, or even get into legal issues abroad.

To reiterate, an IDP is your key to trouble-free international driving, where UAE licenses are not recognized without translation.

Who Can Apply for an IDP in Dubai?

After understanding the importance of an international driver’s license for those seeking to rent and drive stunning vehicles in foreign lands, let’s quickly take a look at who can obtain an international license in Dubai.

IDP eligibility Dubai:

• Any Emirates resident (Emirati or expat) with a valid UAE driving license.

• Minimum age: 18 years.

• Exclusions: Temporary or interim licenses not accepted.

Important Note: The IDP is issued based on your UAE driving license, so it is strictly required to have a UAE license to get an IDP. Visitors on visit or transit visas cannot obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Dubai.

Where to Apply for an IDP in Dubai

So, where can the eligible candidates apply for an IDP in Dubai? The UAE and/or Dubai offer several convenient options for obtaining international driving permit (IDP) through the following entities:

• Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA): Dubai’s official transport authority, known for its fast, online application process and instant issuance. 

• Automobile and Touring Club of UAE (ATCUAE): A recognized and reputable organization that is affiliated with the International Automobile Federation (FIA), offering in-person or IDP online, ideal for those needing extensive support.

• Emirates Driving Institute (EDI): A popular choice for driving school users, offering a straightforward process through its online platform.

• Emirates Post: The official postal operator for the UAE and a subsidiary of Emirates Post Group also offers in-person or online services for obtaining an IDP in Dubai.

• Affiliate Members of ATCUAE: ATCUAE’s affiliate members, such as certain driving schools or service centers, are authorized to issue IDPs. They process IDP requests via ATCUAE.

• Ministry of Interior through the MOI UAE App: The Ministry of Interior’s MOI UAE app (available on iTunes and Google Play) offers a digital platform to apply for an IDP, making it a convenient option for tech-savvy users.

Below, we compare these options to help you choose the best one for your IDP license Dubai:

Disclaimer: These fees and processing times will vary depending on several situations, so reaching out to these entities in person is crucial for updated information.

How to Get an IDP in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s move on to our main topic: how to get an international driver’s permit in Dubai. In this section, we’ll cover the above-mentioned entities and their processes of obtaining your IDP license Dubai.

Option 1: Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you have a valid Dubai driving license (not temporary or interim) and no outstanding traffic fines.

2. Visit the RTA Portal: Go to the RTA Application Portal and log in using UAE Pass or other available options (or create an account).

3. Complete the Application: Fill out the online form with your license details.

4. Upload a Photo: Provide a recent passport-size photo (white background, straight pose) or use your Emirates ID photo.

5. Pay the Fee: Pay the incurred fees via debit or credit card.

6. Receive IDP: Get instant issuance online; collect at RTA Customer Happiness Centres (Deira, Al Barsha) or opt for delivery.

Note: Non-cancellable after payment.

Option 2: Automobile and Touring Club of UAE (ATCUAE)

1. Gather Documents: Prepare your passport copy, residency copy (for expats), Emirates ID copy, valid UAE license, and 2 passport-size photos (white background). (See Comparison Table for details.)

2. Choose Application Method: 

1. Visit ATCUAE Website.

2. ATCUAE office in Dubai.

3. Submit Application: Upload documents online or present them in person.

4. Pay the Fee: Pay the processing fees (see Costs and Fees Breakdown for details).

5. Receive Your IDP: Get it within 30 minutes in person or up to 5 days via online delivery.

Note: Contact ATCUAE (+971 42 961122) for country-specific requirements.

Option 3: Emirates Driving Institute (EDI)

1. Prepare Documents: Gather your original Emirates ID, valid UAE driving license, and 1 passport-size photo (white background).

2. Visit EDI Website: Go to EDI Application or visit an EDI branch.

3. Submit Application: Complete the online form or submit documents in person.

4. Pay the Fee: Pay service fees via car or in cash.

5. Receive IDP: Collect in-person or via delivery (time varies, typically 1–2 days).

Option 4: Emirates Post

• Gather Documents: You must have a valid UAE driving license, passport copy, residency copy (for expats), Emirates ID copy, and 2 passport-size photos (white background).

• Visit a Branch or Online: Go to a participating Emirates Post branch or check their online portal for IDP services.

• Submit Application: Present documents in person or upload them online.

• Pay the Fee: Pay the service charge.

• Receive IDP: Collect at the branch or opt for delivery (1–2 days).

Option 5: Affiliate Members of ATCUAE

• Find an Affiliate: Contact ATCUAE (+971 42 961122) for a list of affiliate members (e.g., driving schools, service centers) in Dubai.

• Prepare Documents: Bring a valid UAE driving license, passport copy, residency copy (for expats), Emirates ID copy, and 2 passport-size photos (white background).

• Visit or Apply Online: Go to the affiliate’s office or check if they offer online applications.

• Submit Documents: Provide documents in person or upload online.

• Pay the Fee: Pay the agreed-upon fees.

• Receive IDP: Get it within 30 minutes (in-person) or up to 5 days (online delivery).

Option 6: Ministry of Interior through the MOI UAE App

1. Download the App: Install the MOI UAE app from iTunes or Google Play.

2. Prepare Documents: Have digital copies of your valid UAE driving license, passport, residency (for expats), Emirates ID, and 2 passport-size photos (white background).

3. Complete the Application: Open the app, fill out the IDP form, and upload documents.

4. Pay the Fee: Pay the processing amount via card.

5. Track and Receive IDP: Monitor application status in the app; IDP is delivered to your address (2–5 working days).

IDP Costs and Fees Breakdown

With a comprehensive understanding of how to make international driving license in Dubai, let’s explore the costs and fees related to obtaining an IDP. It’s important that these prices are limited to the current time (while creating the article) and may vary at different times. Make sure you cross-check these providers’ official web portals.

1. Roads and Transport Authority (RTA):

• Base Fee: 197 AED (177 AED application + 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fee).

• Delivery Fees:

• Standard: 20 AED.

• Same-day: 35 AED.

• Within 2 hours: 50 AED.

• International (GCC only): 50 AED.

• Total Cost: 197–247 AED, depending on delivery.

2. Automobile and Touring Club of UAE (ATCUAE):

• Base Fee: Approximately 170–200 AED + 5% VAT (exact cost varies; confirm at +971 42 961122).

• Delivery Fee: ~15.75 AED for online applications.

• Total Cost: ~185–220 AED.

3. Emirates Driving Institute (EDI):

• Base Fee: 210 AED (all-inclusive).

• Delivery Fee: Varies (confirm with EDI for in-person or delivery options).

• Total Cost: ~210–230 AED.

4. Emirates Post:

• Base Fee: Approximately 170–200 AED + 5% VAT.

• Delivery Fee: Varies by branch (typically ~15–20 AED for home delivery).

• Total Cost: ~185–220 AED.

5. ATCUAE Affiliate Members:

• Base Fee: Approximately 170–200 AED + 5% VAT (varies by affiliate).

• Delivery Fee: ~15.75 AED for online applications through affiliates.

• Total Cost: ~185–220 AED.

6. Ministry of Interior (MOI) UAE App:

• Base Fee: Approximately 170 AED + 5% VAT.

• Delivery Fee: Varies (typically ~15–20 AED for home delivery).

• Total Cost: ~185–200 AED.

Documents Checklist for IDP/IDL

While the above table includes the document checklist for each service provider, in this section, we’ll recap the documents required for driving license in Dubai. The following are the fundamental documents you must have for a trouble-free experience:

1. Valid Dubai Driving License.

2. Passport.

3. Residency.

4. Emirate ID.

5. PP-size photos (x2).

If you have these five documents, your application for IDP in Dubai will be seamless.

Special Considerations for Specific Countries

While we learned earlier that IDP is under the UN policies and is acceptable across 150 countries. However, there are special cases where some countries don’t recognize the IDP despite being UN members. These countries mandate local license or additional documentation on top of driver’s license and international driving permit for political, socio-cultural, and war reasons.

Countries like Brazil, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Iraq, Mongolia, North Korea, the People’s Republic of China, South Sudan, and Somalia don’t recognize IDPs for varying reasons. You will only possibly drive in these countries if you have their local driving license.

Most European countries, including Germany and Italy, don’t usually recognize non-European driver licenses, which mandates the international driver’s license. On the other hand, you will be able to drive with your UAE license in the GCC countries (Oman, Kuwait, KSA, Qatar, and Bahrain). However, having an IDP is advised.

Tips for a Hassle-Free IDP Application

Moving on to the next section, let’s explore some crucial and insightful tips to get international driving permit hassle-free.

• Make sure you are eligible to get international driving license in the UAE. Meeting IDP eligibility criteria is mandatory.

• If you’re eligible, verify your license validity, clear traffic fines, and complete all necessary pre-application checks.

• For quick IDP acquisitions, apply in person, visiting customer service centers of the above-mentioned IDP providers. For convenience, opt for online international driving permit applications.

• Don’t forget to do some research for country-specific IDP license processing. Some special countries require more than the standard IDP. Proactive approaches save you from later troubles.

• Ensure you have enough time for IDP processing before your planned travel. Sometimes it can take time to obtain the print copy of your IDPs.

Applying for IDP—Common Mistakes to Avoid

While following the above mentioned steps can ensure a seamless IDP application process, small details can make a huge difference. Here are some common mistakes that can potentially break your Dubai IDL experience:

• Applying with existing traffic fine. Fine clearance before IDP application is mandatory.

• Ignoring country-specific rules. Different countries have their own requirements besides the IDP, which you must obtain before traveling. Researching and preparing accordingly is crucial for a hassle-free experience.

• Not carrying both licenses (driver’s license & IDL/IDP). IDP alone is not enough for driving in foreign lands. You’ll need both licenses to drive without restrictions or even rent a car.

• Last hour IDP application. Some underestimate the time required for processing and actual IDP delivery. This can create issues for a pre-planned travel schedule.

FAQs About IDP Dubai

1. How long does it take to get an international driving license in Dubai?

It takes anywhere from five (5) minutes to five (5) working days, depending on the provider, to get an international driving license in Dubai.

2. How long is an International Driving License valid for?

An international driving license is valid for one (1) year.

3. Can I use an IDP in the UAE?

No, you cannot use an IDP in the UAE if your driver’s license is from the UAE itself.

4. Can I get an IDP with a temporary license?

No, you cannot get an IDP in Dubai, UAE with a temporary license. A permanent UAE driving license is mandatory for obtaining an international driving permit in the UAE.

5. Do all countries require an IDP?

No, not all countries require an IDP for those with a UAE driving license. The GCC countries and some other countries like the UK, USA, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands, Singapore, and Spain let you drive without IDP for a short term.

6. Can I cancel my RTA application?

No, you cannot cancel your RTA application once you’ve paid the service charges.

Conclusion

Getting your International Driver's Permit in Dubai might seem like a small step, but it's your key to unlocking incredible driving adventures across the globe. This guide has walked you through every detail, from understanding what an IDP is to choosing the right provider and avoiding common pitfalls. Now, armed with this comprehensive knowledge, you're ready to make proactive choices that ensure your IDP acquisition is seamless, quick, and cost-effective. So, go ahead – get your Dubai International Driver's License, hit the road with confidence, and let your global journeys begin! We'd love to hear about your IDP application experience and where your new permit takes you. Share your stories in the comments below!