Dubai Vehicle Registration Process

Understanding The Vehicle Registration Process In Dubai

As with most other cities worldwide, vehicles in Dubai must be registered and insured before they can be legally driven. Once registration is done initially, it must be renewed each year. This article will detail some of the major points and finer details of the process and what you can expect when registering a car, truck, or motorcycle in the UAE.

To register a car in Dubai, you’ll be required to submit the following forms and information:

• Passport with copy
• Dubai driver license
• Proof of insurance
• Previous registration
• License plates (original)

The vehicle must be inspected at an approved facility if it is over three years old. You can find a map of the approved facilities provided by the Roads and Hauling Authority at the links at the bottom of this page. If your car does not pass the inspection test, you have 31 days to fix the issue and do another inspection. When you pass the inspection, you’ll receive the registration sticker.

To learn about shipping a vehicle to Dubai, click here to visit our international shipping page! There, you’ll find information about how much it costs to ship, what steps are involved, and what documents are needed!

Dubai Car Enrollment Procedure & Steps

The total cost for the entire process (speaking of registration only here) is roughly $200, or about 730 dirhams. If there are any outstanding fines or tickets on the car, those will need to be settled before the vehicle can be legally registered in Dubai. Here are the necessary steps to take to get proper registration and license plates:

• Visit a Dubai Traffic Department office
• Pay any applicable fees or fines
• Complete form
• Await confirmation (usually only a couple of minutes)
• Get registration and plates
• Send copies to the insurance

Auto Inspection

There are two main vehicle inspection tests you’ll face if you’re bringing in a car from another country. The first is the New Vehicle Registration Test, which applies to all those who have been purchased outside of the UAE. The second test is the Periodic Vehicle Test, which is the standard test given to all cars on inspection renewal.

If an inspection test is failed, you will have 30 days to retest.

Prior to the inspection, you should ensure the vehicle is clean and free of stickers. You’ll also need to ensure the car has a spare tire, fire extinguishers, and a safety triangle.

Vehicular Resources

Dubai Roads & Transport Authority - An excellent general resource for finding information about obtaining a driver's license in Dubai, license plates, and numerous other vehicle services.

Vehicle Registration Information - For more information about the process of registering a vehicle in Dubai, this link provides contact information and expected costs.