How to Check Car History in the UAE?

Buying a used car in the UAE can save you money, but it's important to know its past. Checking a car's history helps you avoid hidden problems, such as accidents or falsified mileage. 

Whether you're in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or elsewhere, you can use online services from the government. Always start with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), a 17-digit code on your car.

Why Check Car History in the UAE?

A car history check shows if the vehicle has been in accidents, how many owners it has had, and if the mileage is real. This protects you from scams and helps with insurance. In the UAE, used car sales are rising, with over 500,000 deals in 2024, according to recent reports. Knowing the history can save you thousands in repairs.

What Does a Car History Report Include?

A typical report covers:

• Accident history details (dates, severity, photos if available)
• Ownership history (number of owners, transfer dates)
• Mileage records from inspections
• Theft or salvage status
• Service and inspection history

How to Find Your Car's VIN?

The VIN is like your car's ID. Look for it:

• On the dashboard near the windshield
• Inside the driver's door frame
• Under the hood of the engine block
• In your car's papers

What are the Official Ways to Check Car History?

Use government sites for reliable info. Most need the VIN and are free for basic checks.

1. Ministry of Interior (MOI)

MOI covers accidents across all emirates.

• Steps:
1. Visit portal.moi.gov.ae/eservices/PublicServices/AccidentsInquiry.aspx.
2. Enter the chassis number (VIN).
3. Submit—no login needed for basic inquiry.
• What You Get: Accident dates, locations, and details.
• Cost: Free.
• Best For: Quick UAE-wide accident check.

2. Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG)

EVG works for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah (not always Dubai).

• Steps:
1. Go to evg.ae and select Traffic Accidents Management.
2. Enter the VIN.
3. View the report.
• What You Get: Accident photos, severity, and repair info.
• Cost: Free.
• Note: Register if needed for full access.

3. RTA Dubai 

For Dubai-registered cars.

• Steps:
1. Visit rta.ae or use the RTA app.
2. Log in with UAE Pass.
3. Go to Driver and Car Owner > Vehicle Licensing > Apply for Technical Vehicle Status Certificate.
4. Enter VIN and pay.
5. Get the report via email in about 10 minutes.
• What You Get: Accidents, inspections, mileage, and ownership.
• Cost: AED 75.
• Best For: Full history in Dubai.

4. Abu Dhabi Police or TAMM

For Abu Dhabi vehicles.

• Steps (Abu Dhabi Police):
1. Visit es.adpolice.gov.ae/TrafficServices/PublicServices/AccidentsInquiry.aspx.
2. Enter VIN.
3. View accidents.
• Steps (TAMM):
1. Go to tamm.abudhabi and search for View Vehicle Accident History.
2. Log in with UAE Pass.
3. Enter VIN.
• What You Get: Accident history.
• Cost: Free.

5. Other Emirates (Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah)

Use EVG or MOI for accidents. No separate online tools for history, check fines on local police sites, but history via federal systems.

• Steps: Same as EVG or MOI above.
• Note: For ownership, visit local traffic departments.

Private Services for Car History Checks

For more details, like market value:

• VehicleReport.me: Paid (starts free teaser). Enter VIN for full report, including condition and valuation.
• CarReport.com: Similar, checks the odometer and damages.
• Cost: AED 50–200. Use these as extras; official sources are more trusted.

What are the Tips for Safe Used Car Buying in UAE?

• Always test drive and inspect the car.
• Use apps like Dubizzle or YallaMotor for listings, but verify history yourself.
• If buying from dealers, ask for reports.
• UAE Pass is required for many services; get one if you don't have one.

FAQs

1. Is checking car history free in the UAE?

Yes, MOI, EVG, and Abu Dhabi Police offer free accident checks. RTA charges for detailed reports.

2. Can I check the history without the VIN?

No, VIN is needed for accurate results. Plate number works for some fine checks, but not full history.

3. How long does it take to get a report?

Free ones are instant; RTA takes 10–30 minutes.

4. What if the car is from another GCC country?

EVG or MOI might show limited info. Use VIN decoders for basics.

5. Are private reports reliable?

They use official data, but it costs more. Stick to the government for key facts.

6. How to check ownership history?

Use RTA for Dubai, or visit local police for others. MOI shows some transfers via accidents.