United Arab Emirates
International Driver's License for the
United Arab Emirates
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Apply online in 2 minutes — Digital copy in 8 minutesApply in 2 minutes — Receive in 8 minutes
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Printed booklet shipped worldwide — Free ID card includedWorldwide shipping — Free ID card included
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Valid in 175+ countries — Translated into 12 languagesValid in 175+ countries — 12 Translations
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Free replacements if lost or damagedFree replacements if lost or damaged
Do You Need an IDP in the United Arab Emirates?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in the United Arab Emirates depends on who you are and how long you are staying.
Last updated:
| Driver type | IDP needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist or short-term visitor | Recommended | Strongly recommended for all visitors; often required when your license is not in the local language. |
| Rental car driver | Often required | Many rental agencies ask for an IDP alongside a foreign license at pickup. |
| Long-term resident | Not sufficient | After establishing residency you will usually need a local driver's license. |
| Local license holder traveling abroad | Recommended | Carry an IDL with your national license when driving in most foreign countries. |
Rules vary by region — see the FAQ below for local requirements and traffic laws.
Documents you need
- A valid driver's license from your home country
- A passport-style photo — a phone photo is accepted
- No driving test and no DMV visit required
You do not need to be a citizen or resident to apply.
How it works
- Complete the online application — it takes about 2 minutes
- Upload your driver's license and photo
- Receive your digital IDL in about 8 minutes; the printed booklet ships worldwide
International Driver's License Information & Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driver's License in the United Arab Emirates?
The United Arab Emirates recognizes the International Driver's License under the international road traffic conventions, and visitors from abroad are advised to carry one as an official translation of their home license. The IDL is used together with your national license, not instead of it. You can apply online through E-ITA and access your digital documents in minutes.
What is an IDP/IDL and how does it work in the UAE?
An International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an International Driver's License (IDL), translates your national license into several languages, including Arabic. In the UAE it must be shown with your original license, since it only translates your credentials and grants no driving rights on its own.
Which side of the road do you drive on in the UAE?
In the United Arab Emirates you drive on the right side of the road. Drivers used to left-hand traffic should be careful on the country's fast multi-lane highways and at interchanges, and remember that overtaking and priority follow right-hand driving.
What are the main traffic laws in the UAE?
* People drive on the right side of the road.
* The minimum age to drive a car is 18 years old, and the minimum age to rent a car is usually 21.
* The UAE has a national seat belt law; always wear a seat belt when one is available.
* Handheld mobile phone use while driving is prohibited, though hands-free devices are permitted.
* Helmets are required by law for both riders and passengers on motorcycles and scooters.
* The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.01%, effectively zero tolerance; do not drink and drive.
* Typical speed limits are around 40 km/h (25 mph) in urban areas and 80 km/h (50 mph) on open roads, with higher posted limits on major highways.
How strict is drink-driving enforcement in the UAE?
Very strict. The UAE applies an effectively zero-tolerance blood alcohol limit of 0.01%, and penalties for drink-driving are severe. The only safe approach is to avoid alcohol completely whenever you plan to drive in the Emirates.
Do I need an IDL to rent a car in the UAE?
Rental companies in the UAE commonly ask for your home license plus an International Driver's License, and renters usually need to be at least 21. Presenting the IDL lets staff read your license in a recognized language and keeps the rental and insurance process smooth, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Can I get an International Driver's License on arrival in the UAE?
Since an IDL translates a license issued by your own country, it is best obtained before you travel rather than after landing in the UAE. With E-ITA you can apply online in minutes and download a digital copy immediately, which is convenient for a last-minute trip to the Emirates.
How long does it take to get an IDL for the UAE through E-ITA?
The E-ITA application takes only a few minutes online, and you receive a digital International Driver's License right away so you are ready to drive in the UAE. A physical booklet can also be shipped to you; see E-ITA's pricing page for the details.
Who can apply for an International Driver's License for the UAE?
Anyone with a valid national driver's license can apply for an IDL to drive in the United Arab Emirates. The permit only translates that existing license, so it must remain valid and be carried together with the IDL throughout your stay.
Do I still need my home license with the IDL in the UAE?
Yes. The International Driver's License is only valid when presented with your original national license. In the UAE, traffic police and rental agencies expect to see both documents, since the IDL merely translates the license your home country issued.
What travelers say
Reviews from verified E-ITA customers.
“The rental agent asked for an IDP with my license. I showed the digital copy from my phone and picked up the car with no issues.”
“The digital version arrived fast and worked at the rental counter. The printed booklet took five days to arrive, which was fine for my trip.”
“Applied from the airport with urgent processing and had the PDF before boarding. Exactly what I needed for my road trip.”
Ready to drive in the United Arab Emirates?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
