How to Renew a Vehicle Licence in Dubai?

  • July 29, 2024
  • 04:20 Minutes

Index

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) oversees the licence renewal process in Dubai. RTA ensures that your vehicle remains legally registered and compliant with local regulations. Timely renewal is essential to avoid fines, legal issues, and potential disruptions to your daily commute.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the importance of licence renewal and how to renew your vehicle licence in Dubai.

Renewing Your Vehicle License in Dubai

A valid vehicle license is considered a legal permit from the government to drive the vehicle on the roads of Dubai. It is a legal requirement. You will need to submit the following documents to renew your licence in Dubai.

  1. Emirates ID
  2. Valid driving licence
  3. Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
  4. Valid vehicle insurance policy
  5. Passing certificate from an authorised testing centre (for vehicles over 3 years old)

The RTA typically allows a 30-day grace period after your vehicle licence expires. However, it’s best to renew before expiration to avoid potential fines or legal issues.

Vehicles over three years old must undergo annual testing at an authorised centre. If you’re leasing a vehicle, coordinate with your leasing company regarding the renewal process, as they may handle it on your behalf.

Additionally, owners of luxury vehicles (valued over AED 500,000) may need to pay additional fees during the renewal process.

Also, read How to Pay Traffic Fines on Rental Cars in UAE?

Step-by-Step Guide on Vehicle License Renewal

Here is how you can renew your vehicle registration in Dubai.

Online Renewal

The most convenient method is renewing online through the RTA website or the Drivers & Vehicles mobile application.

The steps for online renewal are as follows:

  1. Visit rta.ae or download the Drivers & Vehicles app.
  2. Log in to your RTA account (create one if you don’t have it).
  3. Select “Drivers & Vehicles Services”.
  4. Choose “Vehicle Renewal” from the list of services.
  5. Enter your vehicle details.
  6. Upload required documents (insurance policy, passing certificate if applicable).
  7. Pay the renewal fees using a credit card or your Payit Card.
  8. Print your temporary registration card.
  9. Choose the delivery method for your permanent registration card (courier or RTA collection).

Smart Renewal

For eligible vehicles, the RTA offers a Smart Renewal service that further simplifies the process. However, for that, you need to meet the below eligibility criteria for Smart Renewal:

  • It is only for light vehicles (excluding commercial transport).
  • The vehicle should be under 3 years old or have a valid passing certificate.
  • No fines or payments should be pending.
  • There has to be valid insurance.

If the vehicle ticks the above criteria, the steps for Smart Renewal can be done as follows:

  1. Log in to your RTA account.
  2. Select “Smart Renewal” option.
  3. Verify your vehicle details.
  4. Pay the renewal fees.
  5. Receive your digital registration card instantly.

Fees for Vehicle License Renewal in Dubai

The renewal fees typically include:

Importance of License Renewal in Dubai

Here is why you need to renew your vehicle licence.

  • Legal Compliance: Driving with an expired licence is illegal in Dubai and can result in hefty fines and penalties.
  • Road Safety: The renewal process includes vehicle testing for cars over 3 years old, ensuring that only roadworthy vehicles are on the streets.
  • Insurance Validation: A valid vehicle licence is typically required to maintain your car insurance coverage.
  • Environmental Protection: Regular inspections as part of the renewal process help ensure vehicles meet emission standards.
  • Updated Records: Renewal keeps the RTA’s vehicle database current, which is crucial for traffic management and law enforcement.
  • Access to Services: Many services in Dubai, such as parking permits or toll gate passes, require a valid vehicle licence.
  • Resale Value: A vehicle with an up-to-date licence is more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell.

By renewing your vehicle licence on time, you can avoid legal troubles and also contribute to safer roads and a more efficient transportation system in Dubai.

What Happens if You Fail to Renew Vehicle Licence?

Being aware of potential fines associated with late renewal of your vehicle licence in Dubai is crucial.

  • Delay Fine: A monthly delay fine of 10 AED is charged, up to a maximum of 500 AED.
  • Driving with Expired Registration: You may face additional penalties if caught driving with an expired registration outside the one-month grace period.
  • Accumulation of Black Points: While not directly related to licence renewal, accumulating black points due to traffic violations can affect your ability to renew your licence. For instance, driving with an expired registration can result in 4 black points and a fine of 500 AED.
  • Re-testing Fee: If your licence has been expired for more than ten years, you’ll need to pay the monthly renewal costs and retake the assessment exam

Conclusion

Vehicle licence renewal is an annual requirement for driving legally on the roads. Following the process above will help you renew your vehicle licence easily.

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