Residents of Dubai who hold foreign driver’s licences, like those from the UK or US, often wonder if they can exchange their licences without being citizens of the issuing country. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has provided clarity on the eligibility rules for licence exchange.
As per RTA regulations, licence holders from approved countries can apply for a direct exchange, as long as their licence is valid. However, eligibility is not solely based on the licence; it also considers the applicant’s residency and citizenship status. For example, a resident with a valid UK licence who is not a British citizen may encounter some limitations.
The RTA recommends that individuals visit their official service centers or check the RTA website for the most current list of countries eligible for licence exchange. Applicants must present their original licence, Emirates ID, eye test results, and any other necessary documents for verification.
To prevent any misunderstandings, residents are advised to confirm their eligibility before initiating the application process. These rules are in place to ensure that licence exchanges comply with international agreements and local traffic safety standards.
