How to Clear 8 Black Points to Reinstate Driving Licence
Black points are penalty points added to your driving licence for breaking traffic rules. They help encourage safe driving. Each violation gets a certain number of points, plus a fine. Points stay on your record for one year. If you get no new points in that time, they expire automatically.
If you reach 24 black points in one year, your licence gets suspended. This means you can't drive until you fix it. The rules are similar across emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but local police handle them.
Abu Dhabi Police has initiated a proactive campaign to give drivers a fresh start.
Special Program to Clear 8 Black Points in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Police has a limited-time program from October 20 to November 20, 2025. You can reduce up to 8 black points by attending workshops. It's at Mushrif Mall (first floor), open daily from 4 pm to 10 pm.
- Eligibility: You must have fewer than 24 points.
- Steps:
- Go to Mushrif Mall during the dates and hours.
- Choose the point reduction service.
- Pay AED 800.
- Attend the in-person workshop on safe driving.
- Get up to 8 points cleared.
- Tips: No online option, it's in-person only. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
How to Reinstate a Suspended Driving Licence
If your licence is suspended (usually due to 24 or more points), follow these steps to get it back. The process varies by emirate, but here's the general way.
- Pay All Fines: Clear any outstanding fines via the MOI app, RTA website, or police station.
- Complete Required Courses: Attend rehabilitation or awareness classes. This is mandatory for suspensions.
- Apply for Reinstatement: Submit your request through the local police portal (e.g., Abu Dhabi Police or RTA Dubai). You may need to provide your Emirates ID and licence details.
- Wait for Approval: It can take a few days. Once approved, you can drive again.
- Serve Suspension Period: You must wait out the full suspension time (e.g., 3-6 months) before applying.
Abu Dhabi Reinstatement Program (2025)
As part of the same program at Mushrif Mall (Oct 20-Nov 20, 2025):
- Eligibility: Suspended licence due to 24+ points.
- Steps:
- Visit the location during hours.
- Select the reinstatement service.
- Pay AED 2,400.
- Attend the comprehensive course.
- Get your licence reinstated.
- Benefits: Faster process with education on safe habits.
Common Traffic Violations and Black Points in the UAE
Here's a table:
Violation |
Fine (AED) |
Black Points |
|
Exceeding speed limit by more than 80 km/h |
3,000 |
23 |
|
Exceeding speed limit by 60–80 km/h |
2,000 |
12 |
|
Reckless driving |
2,000 |
23 |
|
Driving under the influence of alcohol |
20,000-50,000 (plus jail) |
24 |
|
Not wearing seatbelt (driver) |
400 |
4 |
|
Using phone while driving |
800 |
4 |
|
Overtaking from the shoulder |
1,000 |
6 |
|
Jumping a red light |
1,000 |
12 |
|
Sudden swerving |
1,000 |
4 |
|
Tailgating |
400 |
4 |
How to Clear Black Points in the UAE
Here are simple ways to remove them.
General Methods to Remove Black Points
- Wait for Expiry: Points go away after 12 months if you don't get new ones. Just drive safely.
- Pay Fines Promptly: Settle all fines through apps or websites like Dubai Police or MOI. Sometimes, discounts are available during special times like Ramadan.
- Attend Defensive Driving Courses: Join classes at approved centers. In Dubai, you can clear up to 8 points by completing a course on safe driving and traffic rules.
- Appeal Wrong Points: If points were added by mistake (like if someone else drove your car), submit proof to the police portal or station.
- Transfer Points: If another person caused the violation, transfer the points to their licence via the police app. They must agree.
- Accident-Free Day Campaigns: During events like "A Day Without Accident" (e.g., August 25, 2025), pledge safe driving online via MOI and get 4 points removed if you stay violation-free that day.
FAQs
How do I check my black points in the UAE?
Use the MOI app, Dubai Police website, or Abu Dhabi Police app. Enter your Emirates ID or licence number.
Can I clear black points online?
Some pledges (like accident-free day) are online via MOI. But programs like Abu Dhabi's require in-person attendance.
What if I have more than 8 black points?
You can clear up to 8 at once through courses. For more, repeat the process or wait for expiry.
Is the Abu Dhabi program available in other emirates?
No, it's specific to Abu Dhabi. Check RTA for Dubai equivalents.
How long does reinstatement take?
It depends, but after completing courses and paying, it can be quick, often within days.
Can tourists clear black points?
Tourists with UAE licences can, but check with the police. For rentals, points may go to the company.
