Planning a road trip to Saudi Arabia, Oman, or Europe? You will need an International Driving Permit (IDP). This document translates your UAE driving licence into 10 languages and is a legal requirement in over 175 countries. This 2026 guide covers everything from eligibility to step-by-step application, so you can get yours quickly and without confusion. And yes – the word you are looking for is “eligibility”. Let us break down exactly who qualifies and how to apply.
What is an International Driving Permit (IDP) ?
An International Driving Permit, also called an International Driving Licence (IDL), is an official document that translates your existing UAE driving licence into multiple languages. It is based on a United Nations convention and is recognised in over 150 to 175 countries worldwide. The permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, and you must carry it alongside your original UAE driving licence. You cannot use the IDP alone – it is only a translation and proof of your existing licence.
Why Do You Need an (IDP) in Pakistan?
You need an IDP if you plan to drive outside the UAE, whether for a holiday or a business trip. Many car rental companies in other countries will refuse to rent you a vehicle without one. Some nations, including Saudi Arabia, Italy, Japan, and India, legally require foreign drivers to carry an IDP. Even if your destination country does not strictly require it, having an IDP removes language barriers with local police and authorities, making your journey smoother and safer.
Who is Eligible for an International Driving License in Dubai?
Not everyone can apply for an IDP in Dubai. The rules are clear and enforced at every application channel. Here is who qualifies:
- First, you must hold a valid, full UAE driving licence issued in Dubai (for RTA applications) or any emirate (for ATCUAE applications). Learner’s permits, temporary licences, and interim licences are not accepted.
- Second, you must be a legal resident of the UAE with a valid Emirates ID. Tourists and visitors cannot obtain an IDP from within the UAE – they must get one from their home country before travelling.
- Third, you must have no outstanding traffic fines. The system checks your record before processing. If you have unpaid fines, you will need to clear them first.
- Fourth, your UAE driving licence should have at least six months of remaining validity. While the RTA does not explicitly state this, the ATCUAE advises it for smooth processing. Finally, you must be at least 18 years old.
That is the full eligibility list. If you meet all these requirements, you can proceed with your application. If you are a tourist, you must obtain your IDP from your home country’s authorised automobile association before arriving in Dubai.
Documents Required for Your IDP Application (Checklist)
Before you start, gather these documents. Having them ready will make the process much faster.
| Document | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Valid UAE Driving Licence | Original or clear colour copy |
| Emirates ID | Front and back copy |
| Passport Copy | Valid for at least 6 months, showing photo and signature page |
| Passport-size Photographs | Two recent photographs with white background ⚠️ Not required for DubaiNow or RTA website if you use your existing RTA photo |
For applications via ATCUAE or Emirates Post, you may also need a completed IDL application form (available at the office).
For online applications, all documents should be scanned or photographed clearly in JPG or PDF format. Make sure your photo is professional: white background, straight head position, and good lighting. Blurry or poorly lit photos will be rejected.
How to Apply – 4 Methods Compared (With Step-by-Step Instructions)
Dubai offers four main ways to get your International Driving Permit. The fastest method takes minutes. The traditional method takes about half an hour. Choose the one that suits your schedule.
Method 1: Via DubaiNow App (Instant – Fastest)
This is the newest and fastest method, launched in late 2025. You can complete the entire process on your phone in under 10 minutes.
- Step 1: Download the app : Go to the Apple App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and download the DubaiNow app.
- Step 2: Sign in : Open the app and sign in using your UAE Pass credentials. If you do not have UAE Pass, set it up first before continuing.
- Step 3: Navigate to the IDP service Once logged in, tap in the this order:
Services→Transport→Driving Licence Step 4: Locate the permit option Look for either,International Driving PermitorApply for New IDPStep 5: Automatic data pull: The app will automatically pull your details from RTA records – no manual typing required.- Step 6: Upload required documents, Your Emirates ID photo (front and back) & Your passport copy (must be valid for 6+ months)
- Step 7: Review your information:Check all details carefully before proceeding.
- Step 8: Pay the fee : Pay AED 177 using one of the ways such as Credit card, Apple Pay & Google Pay.Step 9: Receive instant approval: Once payment is successful, you will receive a digital confirmation immediately on your screen.
- Step 10: Receive your physical IDP: Depending on your selection during the application, the physical booklet will either, Be delivered to your address, or Be made available for pickup at a designated location
Note: The digital confirmation is valid as proof of approval while you wait for the physical booklet.
DubaiNow App – Download: iOS / Android, Cost: AED 177, Time: ~10 minutes, Delivery: Optional extra fee.
Method 2: Via RTA Website (2 Working Days)
- Step 1: Visit the official RTA website: Go to www.rta.ae using a computer browser.
- Step 2: Find the service page: Navigate to the page for “Obtain an International Driving Licence”.
- Step 3: Start the application: Click on “Start Service”.
- Step 4: Log in : Log in using one of the following options:
-
Emirates ID number + expiry date
-
Passport number
-
UAE Pass
- Step 5: Verify with OTP: The system will send a one‑time password (OTP) to your registered mobile number. Enter it to proceed.
- Step 6: Clear outstanding traffic fines: The system will automatically check for any unpaid traffic fines. Pay them if present – you cannot proceed otherwise.
- Step 7: Provide a photo: Select or upload a personal photo.
Important: If you upload a new photo that is not already in the RTA system, you must collect the licence in person from a Customer Happiness Centre. You cannot receive it by courier.
Step 8: Choose delivery method : Select one of the following:
-
Pick up from Customer Happiness Centre – Deira or Al Barsha
-
Courier delivery (only allowed if your photo is already in the RTA system)
- Step 9: Pay the fees: Pay the total amount, AED 177 (permit fee) & AED 20 (Knowledge and Innovation fee)
- Step 10: Receive digital confirmation
Within 2 working days, you will receive an SMS containing a link to view your digital international driving licence.
Step 11: Receive the physical copy
The original physical licence will be either:
-
Delivered to your address (if courier was selected), or
-
Available for pickup (based on your earlier selection)
Note: Keep the SMS with the digital licence link as proof until your physical copy arrives.
RTA Website – Website: www.rta.ae, Service: “Obtain an International Driving Licence”, Processing time: 2 working days.
Method 3: Via ATCUAE Offices or Emirates Post (30 Minutes In-Person)
If you prefer face-to-face service or have complicated document issues, visit an ATCUAE office or an Emirates Post branch. This method takes about 30 minutes.
Locate your nearest ATCUAE office (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and the Western Region) or a participating Emirates Post branch. Bring your original UAE driving licence, Emirates ID, passport, and two passport-size photographs.
Fill out the IDL application form at the counter. Submit your documents and pay the fee. Your IDP will be printed and handed to you on the spot, usually within 30 minutes. This is the only method that gives you the physical booklet immediately without waiting for delivery.
ATCUAE (Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE) – Phone: (Call RTA or check website for local branch numbers), Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM weekdays, Locations: Across all seven emirates.
Emirates Post – Website: www.emiratespost.ae, Hours: Vary by branch, check online.
Method 4: Via MOI UAE App (For Abu Dhabi & Northern Emirates)
| Emirate / Channel | Application Process |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah | Channel: MOI UAE app
Steps: Processing Time: 2 to 5 working days |
| Dubai | Channel: RTA Dubai or DubaiNow app (Do not use MOI UAE app for Dubai residency) |
MOI UAE App – Download: iOS / Google Play, Fee: Approximately AED 170–210, Processing: 2–5 working days.
Cost of International Driving License in Dubai 2026
The total cost of an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Dubai is AED 197. This amount includes the issuance fee and a mandatory Knowledge & Innovation fee. Delivery charges are additional if you opt for courier service. The table below provides a complete breakdown.
| Fee Component | Amount (AED) | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Licence Issuance Fee (RTA/ATCUAE) | 177 | Base cost for the IDP booklet | |
| Knowledge and Innovation Fee | 20 | Mandatory fee applied to all RTA services | |
| Total (Without Delivery) | AED 197 | ||
Collection & Delivery Options (With Prices)
Once your application is approved, you have several options for receiving your physical International Driving Permit. The digital version is not accepted internationally – you must carry the physical booklet when driving abroad.
Here are your collection and delivery options. You will select one during the application process.
| Method | Cost (AED) | Timeframe | Eligible Emirates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pick up from Customer Happiness Centre (Deira or Al Barsha) | 0 | Within 2 working days of approval | Dubai only |
| Standard Delivery – Normal | 20 | 1–3 working days | Dubai |
| Same Day Delivery | 35 | By end of same day | Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah |
| Premium Delivery – Within 2 Hours | 50 | Within 2 hours | Dubai only |
| International Delivery | 50 | Varies by destination | GCC countries only |
Important note: If you upload a new personal photo during your online application (rather than using the photo already on file with RTA), you must collect your IDP in person from a Customer Happiness Centre. It cannot be delivered. Also, if you select courier delivery, ensure someone is available to receive the document at your registered address.
RTA Customer Happiness Centres – Deira & Al Barsha
Hours: 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Sunday to Thursday.
Validity, Renewal & What to Do When It Expires
Your International Driving Permit is valid for exactly one year from the date of issue. It cannot be used in the UAE – it is only for driving outside the country. You must carry both your original UAE driving licence and your IDP at all times when driving abroad. The IDP alone is not a valid driving document.
When your IDP expires, you cannot renew it. The permit does not have a renewal option. Instead, you must apply for a new one following the same process as your first application. You can apply for a new IDP at any time, even if your current one has not yet expired. However, each IDP is issued for a one-year period, and you cannot “stack” them to extend validity. If you are planning an extended trip abroad (over one year), you will need to apply for a second IDP after the first expires. The good news is that as long as your UAE driving licence remains valid, you can keep applying for new IDPs every year without any restrictions.
Pro tip: If you travel frequently, set a calendar reminder to apply for a new IDP about two weeks before your current one expires. This ensures you always have a valid document ready for your trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tourists get an International Driving Permit in Dubai?
No. Tourists and visitors cannot apply for an IDP inside the UAE. You must obtain an IDP from your home country’s authorised automobile association before travelling to Dubai. Once you arrive, you can drive using your home country licence (if your country is on the UAE’s recognised list) or your IDP.
How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit in Dubai?
That depends on the method you choose:
- DubaiNow app: Under 10 minutes for digital approval, physical booklet delivered within days.
- RTA website: 2 working days to receive the permit.
- ATCUAE in-person: About 30 minutes, walk out with the booklet.
- Emirates Post: 1 to 7 days, depending on branch and delivery option.
Can I use the digital version of my IDP while travelling?
No. The digital version from the RTA website or DubaiNow app is for your reference only. Most countries and car rental companies require the physical booklet. Always carry the original paper document when driving abroad.
My home country licence is not in English or Arabic. What should I do?
If you are applying for an IDP as a tourist before arriving in Dubai, ensure the IDP translates your licence into English. If you are a Dubai resident applying for an IDP using your UAE licence, your UAE licence is already in Arabic and English, so no additional translation is needed.
What if I have traffic fines? Can I still apply?
No. The RTA system checks for outstanding fines before allowing you to proceed with an IDP application. You must pay all fines before applying. You can check and pay fines through the Dubai Police app, RTA website, or at any Customer Happiness Centre.
Is an International Driving Permit mandatory for driving in all countries?
No, but it is mandatory in many. Countries including Saudi Arabia, Italy, Japan, India, Thailand, and Indonesia require foreign drivers to carry an IDP. Even in countries where it is not legally required, car rental companies often demand it. Always check the driving requirements for your specific destination before travelling.
I am a resident of Abu Dhabi, not Dubai. Can I still use the RTA website?
The RTA website and DubaiNow app are for Dubai-licensed drivers only. If your UAE driving licence was issued in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah, you should apply through the MOI UAE app, ATCUAE offices, or Emirates Post. The process and fees are similar.
How do I check if my photo is acceptable for the application?
Your photo must have a white background, a straight head position, and good lighting. No shadows, no sunglasses, and no hats. If you are using the RTA website or DubaiNow app and already have an RTA-approved photo on file from your driving licence or Emirates ID, you can use that photo instead of uploading a new one. This avoids the in-person collection requirement.
What is the difference between IDP and IDL?
There is no difference. IDP stands for International Driving Permit. IDL stands for International Driving Licence. In the UAE, both terms are used interchangeably to refer to the same document.
