UAE driving licence validity periods set by age and residency from January 2027

Motorists in the UAE will receive driving licences valid for between one and ten years, depending on their age and residency status, under federal traffic regulations taking effect on January 1, 2027.

The provisions, outlined in Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, which implements Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 on traffic regulation, specify how long driving licences remain valid, the minimum age for different vehicle categories, and the requirements for obtaining or renewing a licence.

Under Article 55, driving licences issued to applicants under the age of 21 are considered temporary and remain valid for one year. They may be renewed for another year.

First-time applicants aged 21 or older will receive licences valid for two years.

Once younger licence holders reach 21, or when first-time licences issued to adults are renewed, the validity period depends on nationality and residency status. UAE nationals and citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are entitled to licences valid for ten years, renewable for equivalent periods. Expatriate residents will receive five-year licences, also renewable for equivalent periods.

The regulations also establish eight categories of driving licences and permits, with minimum age requirements ranging from 17 to 21. Applicants for a light vehicle driving licence must be at least 18, while those seeking to drive heavy vehicles must be at least 20. The minimum age for driving either a light or heavy bus is 21.