Driving License Translation: Complete Guide for Expats & Visitors in the UAE

Driving License Translation: Complete Guide for Expats & Visitors in the UAE

Whether you’re relocating to Dubai for work or visiting Abu Dhabi on a short stay, one thing remains crucial: driving legally. That starts with driving license translation. This guide covers everything you need to know—from legal requirements to certified services, costs, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

What is Driving License Translation?

Driving license translation refers to converting the information on your native driving license into another language—usually Arabic or English—to comply with local laws. It’s often a certified translation, meaning it must be carried out by authorized professionals.

Not sure whether to go with a certified expert or an online tool? Here’s why it’s always better to hire a professional translation company over using Google Translate.

Is It the Same as an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

No. An IDP is issued by your home country and serves as a supplement to your original license, while a driving license translation is a formal conversion done by a certified translator within the destination country—often required for legal processes like license conversion or car rentals.

Why Is Driving License Translation Important in the UAE?

Why Is Driving License Translation Important in the UAE?

The UAE’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) mandates that all foreign drivers who want to drive, rent a car, or convert their license must have their documents in Arabic or English.

Key Reasons Include:

  • Legal recognition by RTA and police
  • Required for license conversion
  • Accepted by car rental companies and vehicle registration offices
  • Prevents language discrepancies in legal procedures

     

Want to know more about the market? Read why translation services are crucial for the UAE.

Who Needs a Driving License Translation?

Driving license translation is required by multiple user groups:

  • Tourists: To rent cars in Dubai or other Emirates
  • Expats: Seeking to convert their foreign license to a UAE one
  • Residents: From non-exempt countries needing a UAE license
  • International business visitors: Who plan to drive during extended stays

     

Even if you have an IDP, certain car rental agencies still require an Arabic translation.

Where Is Driving License Translation Required?

The requirement spans across all Emirates, but is especially enforced in:

  • Dubai: Under RTA jurisdiction
  • Abu Dhabi: Controlled by the Department of Transport
  • Sharjah and others: Local municipalities often follow Dubai’s RTA framework

Certified vs Non-Certified Translation

What is Certified Translation?

A certified translation is completed by an accredited translator and includes an official stamp. It ensures legal validity, particularly when dealing with the UAE’s government entities.

Curious about the difference between certified and general translation? Learn about the full benefits of using professional translation services.

What is Sworn Translation?

Sworn translation is performed by court-authorized translators, often required for legal disputes or court submissions.

Why It Matters:

  • Only certified translations are accepted by the RTA
  • Uncertified translations may be rejected during vehicle registration or licensing

Driving License Translation vs International Driving Permit (IDP)

What’s the difference?

Feature

Driving License Translation

IDP

Done By

Certified translator

Issued by home authority

Valid In UAE?

Yes

Not always

Format

Arabic or English document

Multilingual booklet

Use a translation if you’re applying for conversion or dealing with UAE government processes. An IDP is better for short-term driving across multiple countries.

How to Translate Your Driving License in the UAE

Here’s a step-by-step guide optimized for Google Snippets:

  1. Find a certified translator (approved by UAE authorities)
  2. Submit a clear copy of your current license
  3. Get a quote and confirm the service
  4. Translation and quality assurance are performed
  5. Receive your certified translation, often within 24–48 hours

 

Make sure your translator is MOJ-approved or affiliated with RTA-accepted services.

Costs and Timeframes

How Much Does Driving License Translation Cost?

  • In Dubai: AED 75 to AED 150
  • In Abu Dhabi: AED 100 to AED 200
  • Costs vary based on urgency and language

     

How Long Does It Take?

  • Standard: 1–2 business days
  • Urgent: Same-day or next-day service

Can I Use a Translated License to Drive in the UAE?

Yes, but only under these conditions:

  • The translation must be certified
  • Your home license is valid
  • It must be accompanied by your original license at all times

     

Certain nationalities (e.g., US, UK, EU countries) may be exempt from translation if converting directly under the UAE’s reciprocal agreements.

Converting Your Foreign License to a UAE License

Eligible Countries

Visit the RTA website for the current list. Commonly included:

  • UK
  • USA
  • France
  • Germany
  • Australia
  • Canada

Documents Needed:

  • Original license
  • Certified translation
  • Residency visa
  • Emirates ID
  • Passport-sized photo

Common Mistakes to Avoid in License Translation

  • Using uncertified services from freelance platforms
  • Missing seals or official stamps
  • Wrong target language (e.g., French instead of Arabic)
  • Translating an expired license

Before you proceed, take a moment to review these common English to Arabic translation mistakes.

Stick to certified, government-recognized translators to avoid rejections.

FAQs About Driving License Translation

01 Can I drive in Dubai with just my home country’s license?

Only if you're from a country recognized by the RTA and here as a tourist.

02 Do I need both IDP and a translated license?

Not always. IDP is optional; translation is mandatory for conversion/legal use.

03 Can I use Google Translate or an app?

No. Machine translation is not legally accepted.

04 How do I verify if a translation is certified?

It must bear a stamp, signature, and sometimes MOJ or RTA reference number.