From January 1, 2027, UAE motorists renewing driving licences expired for over 10 years must pass theory and practical tests. The new regulations also extend renewable learner permits from three to six months under Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026.
Tests for Long-Expired Licences
- 10-year rule: Article 76 applies to drivers whose licences have been expired for more than 10 years.
- Mandatory tests: They must pass theory and practical tests set by the relevant licensing authority and meet other renewal requirements.
- Expiry period matters: The 10-year period is counted from the licence expiry date, not its original issue date.
- Test requirements: The Federal Traffic Council may determine the minimum tests required.
- No full beginner course: The regulation does not specify compulsory driving lessons or training hours.
Dubai's RTA already requires an evaluation test for licences expired for over 10 years. However, this may differ from the new federal theory and practical tests.
Longer Learner Permit Period
- Six-month validity: Article 82 allows learner permits to be issued for up to six months, renewable, compared with the previous three-month term.
- No automatic extension: Six months is the maximum validity, not a fixed period for every permit. Existing permits will not automatically be extended.
- Instructor requirements: Driving instructors must hold the required permits and authorisation. Only the learner and instructor may be inside the vehicle during lessons.
- Driving conditions: Learners can drive on roads in populated areas only after the instructor is satisfied that they can control the vehicle.
The new regulation replaces Ministerial Resolution No. 130 of 1997, which allowed renewable three-month learner permits.
