If you want to renew your driving license quickly in Dubai, RTA’s self-service machines (Kiosks) are your best option. Here is quick guide how to use RTA driving license renewal machine and what benefits you can get from it.
First of all, we will know what its advantages are so that you can take all the necessary things when you leave the house.
- Available 24/7: This machine always available, which means you can go and renew your license at any time.
- Multiple Languages: It supports different languages, be it English and, Arabic.
- It is available everywhere, including RTA centers, malls and many other popular places.
- Facilities: You can renew your license, register your vehicle, and pay fines.
- Get a physical card instantly: The machine prints your new driving license on the spot and gives it to you. You don’t have to wait 3 to 5 days for the card to arrive by courier.
Requirements for Renewing your Driving License
The biggest mistake people make is that they go straight to the machine. Remember, the machine only prints your card and charges a fee. If your data is not updated in the system, the machine will reject you.
- Pass an Eye Test (Direct Upload): Visit any RTA-approved optician (like Magrabi, Yateem, or Grand Optics). It costs AED 140–180. (You do not need physical paper. The clinic will upload your results directly to the RTA database.)
- Clear Traffic Fines: If you have any fines in your name, the machine will not renew your license. Pay your fines through the RTA or Dubai Police app before leaving home.
- Carry your Emirates ID: Don’t carry your old and expired license. You need your original Emirates ID to insert into machine.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the RTA Driving License Renewal Machine
Once your eye test is uploaded, the machine process is incredibly simple:
- Select Language: Tap the screen and select your preferred language (English, Arabic, etc.).
- Identification: Insert your physical Emirates ID into the card reader.
- Verify Profile: Verify your details on the screen. It will show that your eye test is valid and your profile is ready.
- Payment: Pay the fee using a Credit/Debit card or Apple Pay.
- (Note: These machines do not accept cash).
- Print: Wait 60 seconds. The machine will print and dispense your new driving license.
Exact Renewal Costs & License Validity
The renewal fee depends on the age of the driver.
| Driver Category | Renewal Fee | Knowledge & Innovation Fee | Total Cost | License Validity |
| Ages 21 and Over | AED 300 | AED 20 | AED 320 | 5 Years (Expats) / 10 Years (Citizens) |
| Ages Under 21 | AED 100 | AED 20 | AED 120 | 1 Year |
The 30-Day Grace Period & Penalties
It is important to track your expiry date to avoid automatic system fines. Remember that You have 30 days after your license expires to renew it without penalties.
| Feature | Details |
| Grace Period | 30 Days (No fine applied). |
| Late Fine | AED 10 per month (Starts automatically on Day 31). |
| Fine Cap | Maximum penalty is capped at AED 500. |
Where to Find the Machines (24/7 Locations)
RTA has installed smart kiosk machines at 12 locations in Dubai, operating 24 hours a day. The most reliable spots include:
- Customer Happiness Centers: Umm Ramool, Deira, Al Barsha, Al Manarah, Al Twar, Al Kifaf.
- Tasjeel Centers: Al Qusais, Al Tawar, Barsha.
- Vehicle Testing Centers: Muhaisna Shamil, Tamam, Wasel (Al Jaddaf).
What to do if the machine doesn’t give you the card?
This is a common real-world glitch with RTA machines that no one talks about. If ever the machine charges your fee but does not print the card, do not worry.
This happens when the machine runs out of blank plastic cards to print. This mostly happens late at night or on days when there is a lot of crowds, and the machine simply hasn’t been restocked yet.
In such a case, your license has been 100% successfully renewed in the RTA system. You can immediately open the RTA app, where your digital license will be active.
You can legally drive on this digital license and later request to have the physical card delivered to your home through the app.
Common Doubts & Quick Fixes
No. These kiosks only work for Dubai-issued licenses. For other Emirates, you’ll need the MOI app or their specific portals.
Your results are valid for 6 months. If you don’t finish the renewal by then, you’ll have to pay for a new test.
Yes, you can pay and renew via the RTA App from anywhere. You can then print the physical card once you’re back in Dubai.
Most big rental companies in Dubai do. However, for driving in other Emirates or abroad, always keep your physical card handy.
Yes. The validity drops to 3 years, and you might need a more detailed medical check-up at a hospital instead of just an optician.
As long as your license isn’t blocked or suspended (under 24 points), you can renew. Just make sure all fines are paid first.
