Anyone operating a vehicle in Abu Dhabi is expected to have a valid driver\u2019s license, or face risking serious charges and fines.\u00a0 The process for obtaining one, however is generally not difficult and varies depending on certain factors.\u00a0 Information for getting a driver\u2019s license in Abu Dhabi can be found at abudhabi.ae, but is summarized below.<\/p>\n
Any short-term visitor to Abu Dhabi is permitted to drive a rental car as long as they have a valid driver\u2019s license that was issued by their original country and an international driver\u2019s license.<\/p>\n
Expatriates who plan to drive in Abu Dhabi are required to obtain a valid local driver\u2019s license, but this process is not difficult.\u00a0 As long as they have a valid license from their original country (there are exceptions, but most common expatriate nations are provided for), these drivers do not need to pass a driving test to get a new license.\u00a0 They do, however, have to prove valid residency in Abu Dhabi, pass an eye test, and pay the required fees for obtaining a license.<\/p>\n
UAE citizens from other emirates are allowed to use their existing license, but if they wish to file for a new one in Abu Dhabi, they must then go through the process of getting a no-objection letter from their host Emirate and also pass an eye test.<\/p>\n
The process is a bit more complicated for new drivers who currently live in Abu Dhabi.\u00a0 First, the person must visit the Abu Dhabi Police Department and go to the Driver\u2019s License department.\u00a0 They must then present personal information and proof of identity and a no-objection letter from a sponsor.\u00a0 Fees to process the application must be paid, and then the person will be issued a training permit.\u00a0 Training must be undertaken at the Emirates Driving Company and the person must pass a written driving exam.\u00a0 Then, a physical driving test can be taken, and if passed, the person can then apply for a full Abu Dhabi driver\u2019s license.<\/p>\n
Once a person has a valid Abu Dhabi driver\u2019s license, the renewal process is relatively simple.\u00a0 The person must take a recent photo, their old driver\u2019s license, proof of Emirates residence, and (if driving for a company or operating heavy equipment, letters from their employer).\u00a0 The person must then pass an eye test and must simply pay the fee for a new license.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Anyone operating a vehicle in Abu Dhabi is expected to have a valid driver\u2019s license, or face risking serious charges and fines.\u00a0 The process for obtaining one, however is generally not difficult and varies depending on certain factors.\u00a0 Information for getting a driver\u2019s license in Abu Dhabi can be found at abudhabi.ae, but is summarized …<\/p>\n