Complete Guide to Getting Your Driving License in Abu Dhabi: Costs, Steps, and Tips
"Feeling lost on how to get your driving license in Abu Dhabi? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!"
Getting your license in Abu Dhabi might seem like a daunting task, but trust me, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're new to the city or simply ready to hit the road, you’ve landed in the perfect place.
You have read over 100 blogs, searched several forums and you are still confused, I know, it has happened to me too. Let’s turn this confusing process into a simple, step-by-step journey that ends with you confidently holding your brand-new driving license!
💡 Key Insights
- Total Cost: The entire process costs around 3,482 AED, which can vary depending on how much is done independently versus with assistance from trainers.
- Golden Chance License: This special license allows faster processing, assuming you have prior driving experience.
- Trainer Assistance: It's common to hire a trainer for navigating through the steps, which simplifies things but adds extra costs.
In this guide, we’re breaking down every stage, starting from the quick eye test to the moment you receive your shiny new license in your hands. And no worries about hidden fees—we’ll be clear about the costs at every step so you can plan ahead without surprises.
How to get your driver's license step by step with your price in Abu Dhabi
I will tell you step by step the procedure to get the driver's license, its cost and some tricks that have helped me to solve the process faster.
Eye test:
I got my eye test done at Yateem Optician, which you can find in most malls across Abu Dhabi. The process is quick and straightforward—just walk in and let them know you need an eye test for your UAE driving license. In about 3-5 minutes, they’ll have you read some lines, identify colors, and recognize patterns. You can check out their services and locations here at Yateem Optician Abu Dhabi.
- Cost: 100 AED
They’ll automatically upload your test results to the system, and if you like, you can request a hard copy for your records. The Eye Test is already solved, let's move on to the second action.
Driving License Translation and Opening Test File:
Right after completing my eye test, I asked my trainer to open the test file for me. You can also handle this yourself by visiting any authorized typing center, which are easy to find throughout Abu Dhabi. They’ll take care of translating your license and initiating your driving test application. The entire process typically takes no more than 30 minutes.
Requirements: Emirates ID, passport-sized photo, and your original driving license from your home country (as specified in the SMS from traffic authorities, the original license must be shown during the test).
- Cost: 100 AED
💥 ¡Stay tuned to your phone!
Afterward, you’ll receive an SMS with your application number. Within 1 or 2 working days, you’ll get another SMS confirming the approval of your application.
Open a driving test file: The next step is to open a driving test file, which you can do via the TAMM website or app. Simply log in using your Emirates ID (you’ll receive a notification in your UAE PASS app). Once logged in, search for "Open driving test file" and follow the instructions for the type of vehicle you’re applying for. In my case, I applied for an automatic light vehicle.
- Cost: 200 AED
After completing this, you’ll receive an SMS confirming that a new driving test file has been opened, along with your file number and traffic number.
In my case, my trainer, handled the entire process of translating my driving license and opening the test file for a total of 350 AED (an extra 50 AED, which I felt was reasonable since I wasn’t familiar with the process).
Alternatively, authorized typing centers can also assist you with this step for an additional fee. This is a process that you can do yourself, but the help of an assistant can save you time and trouble.
Theory Classes & Simulation Practice:
The next step is to enroll in theory classes, which are managed by the Emirates Driving Company (EDC) in Abu Dhabi. You can choose between online or in-person classes. If you prefer offline classes, they take place at their training center Abu Dhabi in Mussafah.
To register, simply visit the EDC website and provide your traffic and test file numbers as mentioned in the SMS. Alternatively, you can also go to the Mussafah training center to register. I personally opted for the online route, and found it to be very easy.
- Cost: 1,400 AED
This is a center that I know and I have good references that may interest you or if you prefer to look for another one.
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Customer Reviews
Once you’ve registered, you’ll receive access to an e-learning course that you can complete at your own pace. The course includes a PDF book and 8 video modules, all of which are mandatory.
If you choose offline classes, you’ll need to book them according to the schedule and attend in person at the training center in Mussafah. It's essential to go through all the material to familiarize yourself with the content.
After completing the videos, which usually takes around 6-7 hours, you’ll be able to book your simulation classes. These consist of 6 sessions, each lasting 15 minutes, and must be completed at the EDC training center.
Once you’ve booked your simulation classes, you can then schedule your theory test date.
- Pre-condition for booking simulation classes: Completion of the theory classes.
- Pre-condition for booking the theory test: Booking the simulation classes.
Although I registered for the online classes on April 24th, my simulation and test were scheduled for May 14th and 15th due to limited availability of slots.
💥 Pro Tip
You can schedule all 6 simulation classes on the same day if slots are available. Keep in mind that the EDC website uses a 24-hour format, so double-check your booking time. I’ve seen simulation slots available on Sundays, even late at night. There have been cases where people mistakenly booked for 1:00 AM but arrived at 1:00 PM, causing them to miss their session.
The simulator isn’t a test; it’s a virtual setup that lets you practice driving. Some users, myself included, may feel a bit nauseous due to the screens. If this happens, let the staff know and take a break if necessary.
However, be sure to complete the simulation, as it’s a mandatory step before you can sit for the theory test.
Theory Test:
The next step is the theory test, which you must take in person at the EDC center in Mussafah. This is the same building where the offline theory classes and simulation courses are held.
Don’t forget to bring your physical Emirates ID.
To prepare for the exam, review the provided materials, and you can also use mobile apps for additional practice. The test typically consists of 45 questions, and you’ll need to get at least 36 correct to pass. Results are available immediately after submission, and you’ll receive an SMS with a link to select your driving test date.
💥 Pro Tip
Arrive at least 15-20 minutes early, as the EDC center is large, and finding the correct test location may take some time.
Don’t worry about rushing through the exam—you’ll have plenty of time, and the instructor will give you clear guidance on how to take the test.
I passed the test by a narrow margin and found it a bit challenging. In hindsight, I should have reviewed the materials 2-3 days before the test, as I didn’t study much after completing the course on May 25, and took the theory test on June 15—a gap of about three weeks.
If someone fails the test, they will need to retake it by paying an additional fee. You can get the details about the retest process at the EDC reception after your exam.
Training permit Card:
The next step is to apply for a road training permit, which is valid for 6 months. You’ll receive an SMS with a link that directs you to the TAMM website, where you can pay for the permit. This card is essential for participating in the on-road training sessions.
- Cost: 118 AED
On-road training is mandatory, as you’ll need a certificate confirming the completion of at least 6 training classes before you can take the final road test.
When applying for your trainee permit, you’ll also be prompted to select a date for your final road test. The system typically auto-assigns a date about two months in advance.
If you need to reschedule, you can do so through the MOI UAE app by selecting ‘Change Try Date,’ but note that an additional fee will apply.
The physical trainee permit card is usually delivered within 2-3 days. Be sure to complete your on-road training before the card expires, as you’ll need to renew it if it does, which also incurs an additional fee.
On-Road Training:
I completed my on-road training with my trainer, but you can find many other trainers online or around the test center in Mussafah. The minimum requirement is 6 classes, though I opted for 12 to feel more confident.
Each session lasts 45-60 minutes, with trainers typically charging 70-80 AED per class. Most trainers offer back-to-back sessions, so you can complete two classes in a single day.
The training takes place near Dalma Mall in Mussafah, and your final test is likely to follow the same route. My trainer was kind enough to pick me up and drop me off in Abu Dhabi City, which is about 30-35 km from Mussafah, so the 70-80 AED per class felt like a fair price.
- Cost: 70-80 AED per class. Minimum 6 classes are required.
💥 Pro Tip
During training, make sure to focus on the SMS routine (Seat, Mirrors, Seatbelt), and practice essential skills like checking mirrors by moving your head, navigating roundabouts, performing emergency stops, roadside parking, lane changes, and yielding to pedestrians.
Also, ask your trainer about what to expect if you’re the first or last person to take the test on the training day, as the process may vary (more details are in the final road test section).
To build your confidence, it’s a good idea to schedule 3-4 classes closer to your final road test date, depending on your comfort level.
Training Completion Certificate:
After completing the required 6 on-road training sessions, your trainer will upload the training completion certificate, which is mandatory for taking the final road test.
- Cost: 75 AED for the certificate after 6 classes, and 90 AED for the certificate after 10 classes.
I chose the 10-class certificate, though I’m not sure if it had any impact on the final test.
Final Road Test:
For the final road test, you’ll need to go to the driving center in Mussafah, the same location where you took the simulator and theory tests.
A few days before the test, you’ll receive an SMS with a link for online check-in, which is necessary to book a spot on the test bus. If you’re not the first to be tested, you’ll sit in a bus with 15-20 other students.
The bus will follow the test vehicle, and when it’s your turn, you’ll be asked to step off the bus and take the test in the test car.
Don’t forget to bring your physical Emirates ID and road training permit card.
Online Check-in:
To check in online, visit the TAMM website and search for "Request for Driving Licence Test." You can complete the payment there. Alternatively, your trainer or a typing center inside the training compound can handle it for you.
Prerequisite:
Your trainer must upload the training completion certificate before you can proceed.
- Cost: 215 AED if you do it yourself, or 266 AED if done by a typing center in the Mussafah test campus.
Once you’ve completed the online check-in, you’ll receive a bus number. You can find the bus at the back of the building, and the driver will ask you to scan your Emirates ID before boarding.
Test:
If you’re the first in line, you’ll be asked to sit with the police in the vehicle and drive the car from the campus to the main road. If you’re the last, your task will be to bring the car back into the campus and park it.
For everyone else, you’ll remain in the bus, which will follow the test vehicle along the route. A screen will display the name of the next student in line, and you can also ask the driver about your position in the queue.
When it’s your turn, you’ll step off the bus and enter the test vehicle. The examiner will be inside—hand over your Emirates ID, and the test will begin. It typically lasts 4-5 minutes, with about 2-3 minutes of actual driving.
💥 Pro Tip
- Follow the SMS routine (Seat, Mirrors, Seatbelt) and let the examiner know when you're ready to start.
- Regularly check all mirrors throughout the test.
- Stick closely to the rules your trainer taught you.
- Pay attention to the examiner's instructions, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if needed.
- After completing the test, retrieve your Emirates ID, exit the vehicle, and return to the bus.
Waiting for your turn can sometimes feel frustrating. Stay hydrated and take deep breaths to help keep yourself calm.
Test Result: Typically, you'll receive your result via SMS within 5-10 minutes. In my case, I had to wait around an hour. If you pass—congratulations! If not, don’t stress. It’s not the end of the world. You can visit the Emirates Driving Company reception or give them a call to discuss the next steps.
License Issuance:
If you've made it to this step, congratulations!
Simply click the link you received or visit the TAMM website and search for "New Driving License Issuance." Complete the payment, and your brand-new driving license will be delivered to you in 2-3 days.
- Cost: 318 AED
💰 Cost Summary
I began the process on May 10, 2024, and completed it on August 10, 2024. The total cost for me was 3,482 AED, though you could potentially save around 500 AED if you handle everything yourself and stick to the minimum of 6 on-road training classes.
Summary:
The process seems long however it is necessary to understand and I recommend the assistance of a good trainer. You can contact me for advice.
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