Dubai Special Driving Permit: Eligibility, Requirements and Fees :All You Need to Know

If you are a resident in Dubai looking to obtain a commercial driving permit, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the eligibility criteria, application process, and associated fees.

Whether you aim to drive a taxi, heavy vehicle, or any other commercial vehicle, understanding these details will help streamline your application process.

As Dubai continues to grow as a global hub for tourism, business and transportation, the demand for qualified commercial drivers has increased significantly.

A special driving permit is essential for residents seeking employment opportunities in the transportation sector, such as taxi drivers, delivery drivers, bus drivers and heavy vehicle operators.

These permits ensure that drivers are well-trained, medically fit and knowledgeable about the local traffic regulations, thereby enhancing road safety and service quality across the emirate.

Reasons Residents Pursue Special Driving Permits

Employment Opportunities: The booming economy of Dubai creates numerous job openings in the logistics and transportation sectors, making it an attractive option for residents seeking stable and well-paying jobs.

Compliance with Regulations: To operate commercial vehicles legally, a special driving permit is mandatory, ensuring that drivers meet the stringent safety and operational standards set by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Professional Advancement: For individuals already employed in driving-related jobs, obtaining a special permit can lead to career advancement, higher pay, and additional responsibilities.

Eligibility

To apply for a commercial driving permit in Dubai, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Age: Minimum age of 21 years for buses and heavy vehicles. For other commercial vehicles, the minimum age is typically 18 years.

Medical Fitness: Applicants must pass a medical fitness test, including an eye test, conducted at an RTA-approved facility. This ensures that the applicant is physically and mentally fit to drive.

Training and Testing: Enrol in a driving training programme at an RTA-approved driving institute. Applicants must pass both theoretical and practical driving tests.

Requirements

When applying for a commercial driving permit, you will need to provide the following documents:

* Copy of passport and residence visa page.

* Original and copy of Emirates ID.

* Two passport-sized photographs.

* Eye test report from an approved centre.

* No objection letter from the sponsor (if required by the traffic department).

How to Apply

Open a Traffic File: Visit an RTA-approved driving centre to open a traffic file.

Medical and Eye Test: Complete an eye test at an RTA-approved optical centre and obtain a medical fitness report.

Training: Enrol in a driving training programme at an approved institute and complete the required number of classes.

Theoretical Test: Pass the theoretical knowledge test, which assesses your understanding of traffic laws and safe driving practices.

Practical Tests: Successfully pass the yard test and the on-road driving test supervised by the RTA.

Service Fees

The fees for obtaining a commercial driving permit in Dubai can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the training programme selected. Here is a general breakdown:

* Safari Learning Permit: Dh200

* Safari Driving Permit: Dh300

* Occupational Driving Permit: Dh200

* Total Costs for Training and Testing: Typically range between Dh4,000 and Dh7,500, depending on the driving institute and any special offers available at the time.

Conclusion

Securing a commercial driving permit in Dubai involves meeting specific eligibility criteria, completing necessary training, and passing several tests.

By following the steps outlined and preparing the required documents, you can navigate the application process more efficiently.

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