Dreaming of navigating the scenic routes of New York without a hitch? It can become a reality with an International Driving License (IDL). For UAE residents, tourists, or those new to this country, IDL is your golden ticket to driving legally across borders. Additionally, it gives you the freedom to explore the world behind the wheel with comfort and ease.
Be it a business trip or for leisure, IDL ensures your journey is safe and convenient. As a translated version of your UAE driving license, foreign authorities understand your credentials and verify your driving rights easily. In this detailed guide, you’ll get to know how to get an international driver’s license, eligibility criteria, cost breakdown, renewal process, and common mistakes to avoid while applying for it. So, without further ado, let’s get straight into that!
What is an IDL and Why It’s Important
An international driving license (IDL) is a document that allows an individual to drive a private vehicle in a foreign country. Also known as the International Driving Permit (IDP), it is a translation of your driver’s license into several languages. This makes it easier for officials in other countries to interpret the information.
IDL is important as it paves the way for you to drive legally in more than one country without taking extra tests. In short, this global document guarantees that traffic police in another country can quickly check and trust your right to drive. If you’re wondering how to get an international driver’s license, the process is simple. In the next section, we will explain that to you.
Who is Eligible to Apply for an International Driving License in UAE?
Before diving into the international driving process, it is important to meet specific eligibility criteria. This includes residency status, age requirements, and more. Here’s the detailed breakdown for you:
1. Residency and age requirements
UAE residents with a valid UAE driving license are eligible to apply for an international driving license. If you’re a tourist or visitor, you cannot apply for an IDL unless you have a valid UAE residence. In addition to this, 18 years is the minimum legal driving age in the UAE. Some countries may have their own age requirements for foreign drivers using an IDL.
2. Valid UAE driving license holders:
You must hold a valid driving license to apply for the IDL. Expired or suspended licenses are not eligible. In addition to this, an International Driving License allows you to drive the same categories of vehicles that your UAE license permits. You cannot drive vehicles that require a special license.
3. Restrictions and limitations
When you’ve received your UAE driving license, you may be eligible to apply for an international driving license. Keep in mind that some countries may not recognize new drivers who are in their probation period.
There are no additional restrictions on expatriates compared to nationals in UAE. Both can apply for an international driving license as long as they are UAE residents.
You cannot apply for an international driving license if you only hold a learner’s permit or temporary driving license in the UAE. A full, unrestricted UAE driving license is required.
Step-By-Step Process to Get an International Driver’s License
The international license process is simple if followed the right way. If you’re wondering how to get an international driver’s license, here is the step-by-step guide for you:
Required documents:
You will need the following documents:
- Valid UAE Driving License: Must be current and not expired.
- Passport Copy: A copy of the applicant’s passport (including the visa page if applicable).
- Passport-Sized Photos: Typically two recent passport-sized photos.
- Emirates ID: A copy of your valid Emirates ID.
- Application Form: The completed application form (available online or at the center).
Application method:
The application methods are: Online and offline.
Online Application:
For online application, following steps must be taken into account:
- Visit the official website of the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority).
- Fill in the application form
- Upload the necessary documents.
- Pay the applicable fees.
Once approved, the IDL will be sent to your address or can be picked up from a designated center.
Offline Application:
- Visit one of the authorized centers such as the RTA.
- Submit the required documents at the counter.
- Fill out the application form.
- Pay the fees in cash or via card.
Your international driving license will either be issued on the spot or mailed to you within a few days.
Duration and Time Required for Processing
If you submitted an online application, the processing time usually takes 3-5 working days. You can collect the license from the center or can choose home delivery. On the other hand, if submitted offline application, the license is issued on the spot at RTA or ATCUAE branches.
How to Track Your Application
For online applications, you’ll get a tracking number via RTA portal. You can use this to check the status of your application. For in-person applications, you can directly contact the branch where you submitted your documents.
Breakdown of the Cost
The previous section discussed the international license process, this section will highlight the cost breakdown:
1. Application fee:
The application fee for an international driving license ranges from AED 170 to AED 200.
2. Photograph processing:
The charge for having your photo taken at the center can range from AED 25 to AED 50.
3. Delivery fee (Optional):
The delivery cost usually ranges between AED 20 and AED 30, depending on the location.
4. Fast-track service (Optional):
Fast-track fees range from AED 50 to AED 100, depending on the center and emirate.
Where the License Can Be Used
The International Driving License (IDL) issued in Dubai is accepted in more than 100 countries around the world. Here’s a simple look at where it’s valid and what you should keep in mind when driving abroad.
| Region | No IDP Required | IDP Recommended or Required |
| GCC & Middle East | Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen | – |
| Africa | Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, Madagascar, Seychelles, South Africa | – |
| Asia-Pacific | Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau, India, Indonesia, Türkiye (Turkey), China*, Philippines, South Korea, Japan**, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Vietnam, Uzbekistan | Japan**, South Korea†, Australia, New Zealand – often require IDP or translation |
| Europe | Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech, Denmark, 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, UK | IDP usually required even if license is accepted |
| North America | Canada (certain provinces), USA (certain states), Puerto Rico | IDP often required depending on province/state |
| South America | Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad & Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela | – |
| Oceania | Australia (certain states), New Zealand, Fiji | Often require IDP or translation |
What to Do If the License Is Lost or Damaged
If your IDP is lost, do not worry. All you have to do is:
- Visit the RTA or MOI UAE website.
- Log in with your UAE Pass.
- Choose the replacement option.
- Fill in the form, upload your Emirates ID, passport copy, and photo, then pay the small replacement fee.
Your new license is usually ready within a few working days.
Tips for Using an International Driving Permit While Traveling
When planning to travel abroad, take note of these practical tips:
- Take both your IDP and UAE driver’s license whenever you’re driving in a foreign country.
- Prepare by researching traffic rules and driving practices
- Prove your permit’s validity by checking that the country accepts your IDP through the ATCUAE or the foreign affairs website.
- Practice careful and patient driving, traffic habits and procedures can vary greatly across different places!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an IDP
Applying for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the UAE is simple. Here are some common errors people make and how you can avoid them:
- Using an expired UAE license.
- Uploading unclear photos or documents.
- Applying through unofficial websites.
- Forgetting to check details.
- Assuming the IDP is valid in the UAE.
SafeDriverHub: Your Trusted Partner for Safe and Smart Driving
Planning to drive abroad or learn more about UAE driving laws? SafeDriverHub is here to help. We offer simple, step-by-step driving guides, safety tips, and the latest updates about the international license process. With us, you get trusted advice and accurate information — all in one place. Wherever you’re heading, drive with peace of mind knowing SafeDriverHub has you covered.
Why Choose SafeDriverHub
Our goal is to make driving in the UAE and beyond easy. We offer you simple guides and updated information to help you stay confident behind the wheel. For learning UAE traffic rules or knowing how to get an international driver’s license, SafeDriverHub is your reliable advice.
Final Take
In this detailed blog, you understand that getting an international driving license in the UAE is simple when you apply through MOI UAE or RTA. With IDL, you can drive in more than 100 countries and there are easy steps to follow.
