Find out the application steps, required documents and total cost.
Dubai: Planning an overseas holiday and considering renting a car? Before driving in another country, it is important to check whether you need an International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an International Driving Licence (IDL).
An IDP allows UAE motorists to drive legally in many countries and may be required by car rental companies or local authorities before you can get behind the wheel abroad.
Can you drive abroad with a UAE driving licence?
Whether a UAE driving licence alone is sufficient for driving overseas depends on the destination country and its local regulations.
In many GCC countries, UAE residents can drive using their UAE licence. However, several European countries and other international destinations may require travellers to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their UAE driving licence.
International car rental companies often ask foreign visitors to provide an International Driving Permit (IDP), even in some countries where it may not be a legal requirement.
For travellers planning to drive in destinations such as France, Italy or other popular tourist locations, it is recommended to check the latest driving requirements with local authorities and the rental company before departure. Obtaining an IDP can help ensure a smoother and more convenient driving experience abroad.
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a United Nations-regulated travel document that translates your national driving licence into several languages. It acts as internationally recognised proof of your driving credentials and is accepted in more than 150 countries worldwide.
The IDP does not replace your UAE driving licence. Instead, it must be carried along with your valid UAE licence whenever you drive abroad.
An IDP can help you:
- Rent a vehicle in another country.
- Present your driving credentials to foreign authorities more easily.
- Meet local driving requirements in countries where an international permit is required.
- Avoid potential delays or complications with car rental companies.
How to apply for an International Driving Permit in the UAE
UAE residents can apply for an IDP online through three official platforms:
Where to apply for an International Driving Permit in the UAE
UAE residents can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) through the following official channels:
- UAE Ministry of Interior (MOI) mobile app — MOI UAE
- Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website — rta.ae
- The Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) — atcuae.ae, or by visiting one of its service centres
Documents required
Before starting your application, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Valid Emirates ID
- Valid passport and UAE residence visa
- Valid UAE driving licence
- Recent passport-size photographs (usually two with a white background)
Important: Applicants must clear any outstanding traffic fines linked to their UAE driving licence before applying. Applications cannot be completed if unpaid fines remain.
The International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue.
How long does it take to receive an IDP?
Processing times may vary slightly depending on the application platform used.
Processing time for online applications
Online applications are usually completed within two to three working days. However, applicants are advised to allow up to five working days for delivery to their registered address.
How to apply for an International Driving Permit through RTA
If your UAE driving licence was issued in Dubai, you can apply through either the MOI UAE app or the RTA website. Before applying, ensure that all traffic fines linked to your driving licence have been cleared.
Step 1: Access the service
- Visit rta.ae and select Services from the menu.
- Choose View Drivers and Car Owner Services.
- Search for “Apply for an International Driving Licence” and select the Apply Now option.
Step 2: Provide your licence details
- Enter one of the following:
- Emirates ID number and expiry date
- Vehicle plate number
- Traffic Code (TC) number
- Click Next.
- Enter the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number.
- Review and confirm your personal details and driving licence information. Select Edit if any updates are required.
- Upload a recent passport-size photograph with a white background.
- Provide your address details.
Step 3: Pay the licence fee
Complete the payment process to submit your application and proceed with issuing the International Driving Permit.
Delivery options and fees
After completing the application, select your preferred delivery method and pay the service fee online using a debit or credit card.
According to the RTA, applicants receive an SMS within two working days containing a link to a digital copy of their International Driving Licence. This digital version remains valid until the physical card is delivered.
The physical IDL is usually delivered the following day, unless an express delivery option is selected.
Applicants can also collect the IDL in person, free of charge, from an RTA Customer Happiness Centre in Deira or Al Barsha.
Fees
Licence issuance fees:
- Dh177 — Licence issuance fee
- Dh20 — Knowledge and Innovation fee
Delivery charges:
- Normal next-day delivery: Dh20
- Same-day delivery (Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah): Dh35
- Delivery within two hours: Dh50
- International delivery: Dh50
- Collection from RTA Customer Happiness Centres: No additional charge
How to apply through the MOI UAE app
The Ministry of Interior also allows residents to apply for an International Driving Permit digitally through the MOI UAE mobile application.
Application process through MOI UAE
UAE residents can apply for an International Driving Permit through the MOI UAE mobile application by following these steps:
- Download the MOI UAE app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Log in using UAE Pass.
- Select the International Driving Licence service.
- Enter the required details:
- Nationality
- Driving licence issuing emirate
- Licence category
- Mobile number
- Email address
- Upload a recent passport-size photograph with a white background.
- Add your delivery address.
- Complete the payment online using a debit or credit card.
After submitting the application, you will receive confirmation through SMS and email. Delivery is handled through Emirates Post.
MOI UAE fees
- Dh170 — International Driving Licence fee
- Dh8.50 — Delivery fee
How to apply through ATCUAE
The Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) also provides an online application service for International Driving Permits.
How to apply through ATCUAE
UAE residents can apply for an International Driving Permit through the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) by following these steps:
- Visit the ATCUAE IDP application page.
- Enter your full name, email address and mobile number.
- Provide your date of birth, place of birth, nationality and residential address.
- Enter your Emirates ID and UAE driving licence details.
- Upload digital copies of your Emirates ID, UAE driving licence and passport-size photographs.
- Complete the payment process.
Processing time
Once the application is completed, the permit is generally delivered within three to five working days.
Before travelling, always check the specific driving requirements of your destination country with local authorities or your car rental provider, as regulations may vary and can change over time.
