You can also renew at a self-service kiosk or a service centre. Most people finish the whole process from their phone. The sections below cover fees, steps, and delivery options.
TL;DR
- Renew online via the RTA website or RTA Dubai app in minutes.
- Pass an RTA-approved eye test first (AED 140 to AED 180, valid three years).
- Clear all traffic fines before you apply.
- Fees are AED 300 + AED 20 for drivers 21+, or AED 100 + AED 20 for under 21.
- Your digital licence appears in the app instantly. Print it or get it delivered if needed.
- Late renewal costs AED 10 per month. Over 10 years expired means retaking tests.
Now you know how to renew driving license in Dubai the quick way. Book your eye test, clear your fines, and renew from your phone today.
When Can You Renew Your Licence?
Timing depends on your age. Drivers aged 21 or above can renew up to six months before expiry, while those under 21 can apply up to three months early. So there is no need to wait until the last week.
Your new licence validity also depends on age and nationality. Renewed licences last 10 years for UAE and GCC citizens aged 21 or above, five years for residents aged 21 or above, and one year for applicants younger than 21. Keep this in mind when you plan your next renewal.
What You Need Before You Start
Get these three things ready first. Residents need a valid Emirates ID, a completed eye test, and all outstanding fines paid. Diplomats and people of determination may need extra documents.
It also helps to set up UAE Pass in advance. It makes logging in to RTA services much quicker. Many drivers skip this step and then get stuck at the login screen.
The Eye Test: Your First Step
You cannot renew without a valid eye test. The test must be done at an RTA-approved centre, which sends the result electronically to RTA. That means you do not need to carry a printed certificate.
RTA lists the eye test fee at AED 140 to AED 180 depending on the centre, and the result stays valid for three years. Finding a centre is easy too. RTA said in August 2026 that Dubai now has 434 approved eye test centres.
Renewal Fees in 2026
Here is a quick breakdown of what you will pay.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Renewal fee (21 and above) | AED 300 + AED 20 |
| Renewal fee (under 21) | AED 100 + AED 20 |
| Eye test | AED 140 to AED 180 |
| Late renewal fine | AED 10 per month |
For drivers aged 21 or above, the standard fee is AED 300 plus an AED 20 Knowledge and Innovation fee. Under-21s generally pay AED 100, plus the same AED 20 fee. Delivery charges and any outstanding fines can push the final amount higher.
How to Renew Online on the RTA Website
This is the most popular route. It takes around 10 minutes if your eye test is already in the system. Just follow these steps.
- Go to the RTA website and log in. You can sign in with your Emirates ID, passport, or UAE Pass and confirm with an OTP.
- Select Drivers Licensing Services, then Renew Driving Licence.
- Check that your licence details are correct.
- Choose how you want to receive the new licence.
- Pay the fees by card and save your receipt.
How to Renew on the RTA Dubai App
The RTA Dubai app works just as well as the website. Scan the QR code on your licence or enter your licence number, issue date, birth year, and traffic file number. The app then pulls up your licence details.
After that, the steps match the website. Confirm your details, pick a delivery option, and pay. Your renewed licence shows up in the app right away.
Kiosks and Service Centres
You can also renew in person if you prefer. Self-service kiosks offer instant card printing. Customer Happiness Centres and typing centres also handle renewals.
An in-person visit makes sense in some cases. You may need to visit a centre if your name or visa details have changed. Update your Emirates ID and RTA profile first to avoid delays.
Getting Your New Licence
Your licence is ready as soon as you pay. RTA issues it digitally, and you can find it in the RTA Dubai app under My Docs or add it to Apple or Samsung Wallet. That digital copy is valid for driving.
A physical card is also available. Print one at an RTA self-service machine or request delivery. Delivery helps if you cannot reach a kiosk.
What If Your Licence Has Already Expired?
Renew an expired licence as soon as possible. A delay fine of AED 10 applies for every month after expiry. The longer you wait, the more you pay.
There is one big exception to watch for. Licences expired for more than 10 years require you to retake the driving tests. Also, never drive on an expired licence, as that brings separate traffic penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Dubai driving licence online?
Yes, you can renew through the RTA website or the RTA Dubai app. Most renewals take only a few minutes once your eye test is uploaded.
How much does renewal cost in Dubai?
Drivers aged 21 and above pay AED 320 in total RTA charges. The eye test adds AED 140 to AED 180 on top.
Do I need a new eye test every time?
Not always, because your eye test result stays valid for three years. If it is still valid, you can use it for your renewal.
Can I renew with unpaid traffic fines?
No, all fines on the licence must be paid before renewal. Clear them first in the same app.
How early can I renew my licence?
Drivers 21 and above can renew six months before expiry. Under-21 drivers can renew three months early.
Do I get a physical licence card?
You get a digital licence instantly in the RTA Dubai app. You can print a card at a kiosk or request delivery.
What happens if my licence expired 10 years ago?
You will need to retake the driving tests. Short delays only mean a monthly fine of AED 10.
