International Driving Permit Dubai Cost: Latest Fees Explained

If you're planning to drive outside the UAE, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your valid UAE driving licence.

In Dubai, the cost depends on the application channel. RTA currently charges AED 197 for its International Driving Licence service. Emirates Post charges AED 178.50 when applying through its branches or AED 199.50 through its website or smart app, with VAT included. ATCUAE also provides an International Driving Licence service, with free pickup from its Dubai office and a AED 15.75 delivery charge.

The IDP is generally valid for one year and is intended for driving outside the UAE.

International Driving Permit Dubai Requirements

International Driving Permit Dubai Cost at a Glance

Fees can change, so check the provider's official service page before payment.

International Driving Permit Dubai Online Application

1. RTA International Driving Licence Cost: AED 197

For holders of a valid Dubai-issued driving licence, RTA's current International Driving Licence service costs:

• Licence: AED 177
• Knowledge and Innovation fee: AED 20
• Total: AED 197

If you select delivery, additional charges apply:

• Standard delivery: AED 20
• Same-day delivery: AED 35
• Delivery within 2 hours: AED 50
• International delivery: AED 50

RTA says the international licence can be used in countries outside the UAE, subject to the applicable rules.

How to Apply Through RTA

1. Log in using UAE Pass.
2. Select Transport.
3. Select My Licence.
4. Choose Apply for an International Driving Licence.
5. Make sure any required traffic fines are paid.
6. Upload or select your personal photo.
7. Choose collection or delivery.
8. Review the application.
9. Pay the applicable fees.

RTA states that applicants must hold a valid Dubai driving licence. Temporary or interim licences cannot be used for this application.

2. Emirates Post International Driving Permit Cost

Emirates Post provides another official route for UAE citizens and residents.

The current fees are:

AED 178.50 when applying through National Network service centres or Emirates Post branches.

AED 199.50 when applying through the Emirates Post website or smart application.

The online/app fee includes VAT and delivery charges. Emirates Post states that branch applications can take around 15 minutes, while online applications can take around 5 minutes to submit, with delivery within 48 working hours during official working days.

Documents Required

Emirates Post lists:

• Valid UAE driving licence
• Original passport
• Emirates ID
• One colour photograph

You must also select the vehicle category that matches the category on your UAE driving licence.

3. ATCUAE International Driving Licence Cost

The Automobile & Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) is another recognised channel for obtaining an international driving licence.

Its current online application lists:

• Dubai office pickup: free
• Delivery: AED 15.75 shipping
• Required documents: UAE driving licence, Emirates ID and passport-size photo

ATCUAE also notes that travellers going to Japan require a separate IDP booklet.

How Long Is an International Driving Permit Valid?

A UAE-issued IDP is generally valid for one year from the date of issue.

Emirates Post explicitly states that its issued International Driving Permit is valid for one year. The UAE Government also states that the IDP is valid for one year.

You should therefore apply for a new permit when your current one expires if you still need to drive internationally.

Can You Drive in Dubai With an International Driving Permit?

An IDP issued in another country is not a replacement for a UAE driving licence when you are driving as a UAE resident in the UAE.

The purpose of a UAE-issued IDP is to help UAE residents and citizens drive legally in other countries, according to the applicable international agreements and the destination country's rules.

Is an IDP the Same as a Driving Licence?

No.

An International Driving Permit is a supporting document, not a standalone replacement for your original driving licence.

When driving abroad, you should carry:

• Your valid UAE driving licence
• Your International Driving Permit
• Passport or other required travel identification

The destination country may also have additional requirements.

Do You Need an IDP for Every Country?

Not necessarily.

Requirements vary by country. Some destinations may accept a valid UAE driving licence under local agreements, while others may require an IDP.

Before travelling, check the driving requirements of the country you are visiting rather than assuming that an IDP is always mandatory.

The UAE Government recommends checking applicable country requirements and provides information about driving abroad.

RTA vs Emirates Post vs ATCUAE: Which Is Cheaper?

If you're comparing the published 2026 fees, Emirates Post branch service is the lowest clearly stated paid option at AED 178.50.

RTA costs AED 197 before any optional delivery charges, while Emirates Post online/app service costs AED 199.50 including delivery. ATCUAE's Dubai office pickup is listed as free, although delivery costs AED 15.75.

How Much Does an International Driving Permit Cost in Dubai?

The International Driving Permit Dubai cost in 2026 ranges from AED 178.50 to AED 199.50 through the main paid channels, depending on where you apply.

• Cheapest published branch option: AED 178.50 through Emirates Post
• RTA: AED 197
• Emirates Post online/app: AED 199.50
• ATCUAE Dubai pickup: Free pickup, with AED 15.75 delivery if you choose shipping

The permit is generally valid for one year and is designed for UAE residents and citizens driving abroad.

Before travelling, check the rules of your destination country and carry your original UAE driving licence together with your IDP.

FAQs

How much does an International Driving Permit cost in Dubai?

The current published fees include AED 197 through RTA, AED 178.50 through Emirates Post branches and AED 199.50 through Emirates Post online or its smart app.

Is an International Driving Permit valid for one year?

Yes. A UAE-issued IDP is generally valid for one year from its issue date.

Can I apply for an IDP online in Dubai?

Yes. RTA and Emirates Post both provide online application options.

What documents do I need for an IDP?

Requirements vary by provider, but Emirates Post lists a valid UAE driving licence, original passport, Emirates ID and one colour photo.

Can I use a UAE IDP in Japan?

Japan has additional requirements. RTA and ATCUAE specifically note that a separate IDP booklet is required for Japan.

Can I drive in the UAE using an international driving permit?

An IDP is intended for driving outside the UAE. UAE residents should use their valid UAE driving licence when driving in the UAE.

Is Emirates Post cheaper than RTA?

For the currently published fees, yes. Emirates Post's branch fee is AED 178.50, compared with AED 197 through RTA.