Driving License Translation: Everything You Need to Know

Driving License Translation: Everything You Need to Know

Driving License Translation: Everything You Need to Know
Interpreter Dubai October 6, 2023

Are you looking to drive abroad, but you’re not sure how to go about translating your driver’s license? Don’t worry! You can use this blog article as a resource. Here, we’ll go over everything you need about driving license translation, from what documents you need to where to get the Sim-Trans service you need.

You’ll be prepared to travel with confidence once this post is finished. So, let’s get started and look at how to translate your license for international use.

What is Driving License Translation in UAE?

To be able to drive a car or other vehicle inside the UAE or any other nation, a driving license translation is legally required. Therefore, your laws require that you obtain a valid driver’s license to demonstrate your qualification to drive a car.

Driver license translation in UAE refers to converting your existing license into a legally recognized document that can be used for driving in the United Arab Emirates. This involves translating the information on your license, such as your details and the categories of vehicles you are authorized to drive, into the local language (Arabic).

Why is Driving License Translation Essential?

Driver license translation is essential because it allows you to drive in a foreign country legally. With a translated license, you may avoid fines, imprisonment, or other legal consequences if caught driving with an untranslated license.

Having a translated license ensures local authorities can understand your driving privileges and personal information, making it easier for you to navigate the roads and comply with local traffic laws. It gives you peace of mind and the confidence to explore new places without worrying about legal issues. Using a reliable service like Sim-Trans will help ensure that all necessary information is included in your translated license.

What Countries Require a Translated Driving License?

When it comes to driving abroad, knowing which countries require a translated license is essential. While the requirements may vary from country to country, some common destinations requiring a translated license include:

  • United Arab Emirates
  • Germany
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • France

These countries often require a translation of your driver’s license to drive within their borders legally.

Read Also: How to Check Driving Licence Black Points

How to Get a Translation of your Driver’s Licence?

If you’re wondering how to translate your driving license, we’ve got you covered.

  1. The first step is to find a reputable translation service specializing in driving license translation.
  2. Look for a service with experience with international driver’s license requirements and can provide accurate translations.
  3. Once you’ve found a service, you’ll typically need to provide them with a copy of your license and any necessary supporting documents.
  4. They will translate the relevant information into the required language, ensuring that all the essential details are included.
  5. After the translation is complete, you’ll receive your translated driver’s license, ready to use in your desired country.

Which Countries Driving License Can be Converted to UAE?

If your license from another country can be converted to a UAE license, the answer is yes! The United Arab Emirates allows for converting driving licenses from certain countries.

The list of replaced countries can vary:

GCC countries, USA, UK, China, Canada, Lithuania, Portugal, Hungary, Bulgaria, Latvia, Serbia, Luxembourg, Estonia, Cyprus, Slovakia, Slovenia, Albania, Romania, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Finland, Spain, the Netherlands, Greece, Sweden, Belgium, Ireland, Turkey, Norway, Montenegro, Ukraine, Japan, Denmark, Austria, France, South Korea, Hong Kong, China, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Africa.

The list of cannot be replaced countries can vary:

Puerto Rico (US), North Mariana (US), Guam Island (US), Liechtenstein (Switzerland), Monaco (France), and Jersey Island (Britain).

By converting your license, you can easily navigate the roads of the UAE with confidence and legal compliance.

Read Also: Which Countries Driving Licences Can Be Exchanged In UAE?

What Do You Need to Convert Your Driver’s License in Dubai? 

A few documents you need to convert your license:

  • Your passport (original and copy)
  • A valid driver’s license
  • Valid residence visa issued by Dubai
  • A filled-out replacement license application
  • A sponsor’s letter of no objection (NOC) replacing the license and the Dubai health authority-accredited optometry form (it’s not often requested, but bring it just in case).
  • Eye-test certificate.

How Much Does it Cost to Convert a License in Dubai?

The cost of converting the driving license is Dh600 to Dh870. Owners of Singaporean licenses must pay Dh1,070. Through the Ministry of Interior website, residents of Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah can request their foreign licenses converted. Some service fees are payable for those eligible for a UAE license without a test.

Some other charges:

The application process in Dubai includes a Dh200 fee for opening a traffic file and a Dh600 charge for issuing a license. Additional fees of Dh50 for providing a manual and Dh20 for administrative costs are also in effect. For those qualified drivers who want to apply for a UAE permit, Abu Dhabi levies Dh600. The process may be finished online using Tamm, the government services site for Abu Dhabi.

Read to know about: Driving Licence Translation in Abu Dhabi

Certified Translation Vs Non-Certified Translation

A certified translation is a translation that has been completed by a professional translator whom a government authority or professional translation association recognizes. This type of translation is typically required for official purposes, such as submitting documents to government agencies.

A non-certified translation is a translation that has yet to be completed by a certified translator. While a non-certified translation may be acceptable for personal use or informal situations, it may not be accepted by authorities or institutions that require certified translations. So, you need your translated driving license for official purposes.

How Much Does a Driving License Translation Cost?

When it comes to translating your driving license, one of the factors you may be wondering about is the cost. The cost of a driver’s license translation can vary depending on several factors, such as:

  • The language pair
  • The complexity of the document
  • The service provider you choose

Generally, the cost of translating a driver’s licence in the UAE could range from AED 325.00 to AED 585.00 or more, depending on the factors above. Prices for urgent or certified translations may be higher.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Driving Licence Translation?

In less than 24 hours, Sim-Trans can provide you with a legal translation of your driver’s license in Dubai.

Can You Use an International Driving Permit Instead of a Translated License?

Visitors who intend to drive in the UAE must first get an IDP in their nation of residence or place of habitation of residence. The IDP, which is good for 1 year, proves that you own an active driver’s license in your country of residency.

If you’re wondering if you can use an international driving permit instead of a translated license, the answer is yes and no. In some countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, a translated license is required for legal driving. So, if you’re planning to drive in UAE or any other country that requires a translated license, it’s best to get your license professionally translated to ensure you have all the necessary documentation to hit the road confidently.

Is UAE Driving License International?

A legal obligation and United Nations convention, the IDL. It is a legally valid translation of your driver’s license that enables drivers to lawfully operate automobiles outside of the United Arab Emirates without the need for additional exams or applications.

Can I Buy a Car in Dubai Without a Driver License?

Is it possible to purchase a car in Dubai without a UAE residency? Unfortunately, you will require a driver’s licence or an Emirates ID resident card, which can only be acquired with a residence visa, to own a car in Dubai.

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