If you’re planning to drive in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it’s important to understand the different categories of driving licenses available.
Each category corresponds to a specific type of vehicle and driving conditions, and obtaining the appropriate license is essential for safe and legal driving on UAE roads.
This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the UAE driving license categories list, including the vehicles and driving conditions covered by each category and the requirements for obtaining each license.
Whether you’re a new driver or an experienced one, this guide will help you navigate the UAE driving license system and ensure that you have the necessary license to drive safely and legally in the country.
UAE Driving License Categories List
Category A: Motorcycles
Category A driving license is required to operate motorcycles with or without a sidecar.
The applicant must be at least 17 years old and pass a driving test that includes both practical and theoretical components to obtain this license.
Category B: Cars and Light Vehicles
Category B driving license is required to operate cars and light vehicles that weigh up to 3.5 tons.
This category includes standard passenger cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks.
The applicant must be at least 18 years old and pass a driving test that includes both practical and theoretical components to obtain this license.
Category C: Heavy Vehicles
A category C driving license is required to operate heavy vehicles that weigh more than 3.5 tons, including buses and trucks.
To obtain this license, the applicant must be at least 20 years old and have held a valid Category B driving license for at least one year.
The applicant must also pass a driving test with practical and theoretical components.
Category D: Buses
A category D driving license is required to operate buses with more than 24 passengers.
To obtain this license, the applicant must be at least 21 years old and have held a valid Category B driving license for at least one year.
The applicant must also pass a driving test with practical and theoretical components.
Category E: Light Trailers
A category E driving license is required to operate light trailers that weigh up to 750 kg.
The applicant must have a valid Category B driving license and pass a practical driving test to obtain this license.
Category E is a specialized category of driving license in the UAE required for operating light trailers.
Light trailers are defined as trailers that weigh less than 750 kg and are used for non-commercial purposes such as towing a small boat or trailer.
To obtain a Category E driving license, the applicant must already hold a valid UAE driving license for a passenger car.
Additionally, the applicant must have completed at least six hours of practical driving training at a registered driving school in the UAE.
The training covers the specific skills and knowledge required to operate a light trailer on the road safely.
Category F: Heavy Trailers
A category F driving license is required to operate heavy trailers that weigh more than 750 kg.
The applicant must have a valid Category C driving license and pass a practical driving test to obtain this license.
It is important to note that each driving license category has specific requirements, including medical fitness, eye tests, and training courses.
Applicants must also pass a practical driving test that includes on-road driving, parking, and maneuvering skills.
Category G: Forklift Driving License
A person must be at least 20 years old to apply for a license to operate a Forklift.
Forklifts are necessary when moving large goods around warehouses, factories, and retail.
To drive a forklift legally, you must first have a category 7 license.
To qualify for this license, you must demonstrate competence in the theory and practice of operating a forklift and pass a written and practical test.
If you’ve had some practice driving them, these cars are rather easy to handle.
Category H: Heavy Forklift Driving License
To operate a Forklift legally, you must be at least 20 years old. 8TH and last class on the list of classes for UAE licenses.
The most laborious moving and lifting jobs call for the employment of massive forklifts.
Category 8: heavy forklift drivers must be at least 21 years old, have completed both written and practical tests, and have previous experience operating a standard forklift.
You can safely learn to drive one of these cars with time and effort.
How To Get A UAE Driving License?
Getting a UAE driving license involves a few steps that must be followed carefully. Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining a UAE driving license:
Get a residency visa: To be eligible for a UAE driving license, you must have a residency visa. If you are not a UAE national, you must obtain a residency visa from the relevant authorities.
Pass an eye test: Before applying for a UAE driving license, you must pass an eye test at a registered optician in the UAE.
Attend driving classes: You must attend driving classes at a registered driving school in the UAE. You can choose from a range of driving schools in the UAE, but it is essential to choose a reputable one approved by the authorities.
Pass the theory test: After completing your driving classes, you must pass a theory test covering road rules and traffic regulations. The test is conducted in various languages and is usually computer-based.
Pass the practical test: Once you have passed the theory test, you must pass a practical driving test. The test involves demonstrating your driving skills on the road and performing a range of maneuvers.
Obtain your driving license: If you pass the theory and practical tests, you will be issued a UAE driving license.
It is important to note that the requirements for obtaining a UAE driving license may vary depending on your nationality and the emirate you reside in.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the different categories of driving licenses available in the UAE is essential for safe and legal driving on the country’s roads.
From motorcycles and cars to heavy vehicles and buses, each category corresponds to a specific type of vehicle and driving conditions, and obtaining the appropriate license is crucial.
So, whether you’re a new driver or an experienced one, take the time to familiarize yourself with the UAE driving license system and obtain the appropriate license to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free driving experience in the country.
References
- A Guide To Driving Licence Abu Dhabi: Procedure, Test, Requirements & More – MyBayut. (2019, October 16). A Blog About Homes, Trends, Tips & Life in the UAE | MyBayut. https://www.bayut.com/mybayut/complete-guide-driving-license-abu-dhabi/
- Labours, U. (n.d.). How to get UAE Driving License. UAE Labours. https://www.uaelabours.com/2019/08/getting-uae-driving-license.html
- UAE Driving License Categories List – DriveeUAE. (2023, January 28). DriveeUAE. https://driveeuae.com/uae-driving-license-categories-list/
- FAQS. (n.d.). FAQS. https://www.dubaidrivingcenter.net/faqs.html
