Getting a motorcycle licence in Abu Dhabi is a clear and structured process, whether you’re a complete beginner or transferring a licence from your home country. If you’re planning to apply for a motorcycle license abu dhabi, once you meet the age and document requirements, the steps are simple: open a traffic file, complete training at an approved driving school, pass your tests, and collect your licence.
- Eligibility & required documents
- Step-by-step process to get a motorcycle licence
- Costs & fees
- Licence exchange (approved countries)
- Tips, recommendations & rider insights
- Driving schools & training centres
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Eligibility & required documents
You can apply for a motorcycle licence in Abu Dhabi if you’re at least 17 years old and medically fit to ride. The process is open to Emiratis and residents with a valid visa.
Eligibility criteria
- Minimum age: 17 years old
- Valid residence visa or Emirati citizenship
- Able to pass an eye test
- Medically fit to ride a motorcycle
These requirements are confirmed by the UAE Government Portal (u.ae) and TAMM.
Required documents
Have the following ready before opening your traffic file:
- Original Emirates ID + copy
- Passport
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- Eye test certificate (from authorised centre)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer/sponsor (if applicable)
- Previous motorcycle licence (for conversions or transfers)
These items match the official list confirmed by TAMM and Emirates Driving Company (EDC).
Step-by-step process to get a motorcycle licence
The steps are standard across Abu Dhabi and verified by TAMM, Abu Dhabi Police, and EDC.
Complete the eye test
An eye test is mandatory and must be completed at a government-approved optician. The result is uploaded directly to the system.
Open a traffic file
You can open your traffic file:
- Through the TAMM online portal, or
- At an Abu Dhabi Police customer service centre
Your Emirates ID must be active and linked to your UAE mobile number for SMS notifications.
Enrol in a driving school
Sign up with Emirates Driving Company (EDC) or another approved institute. You’ll be assigned training hours based on your experience level.
Verified fact:
Beginners usually require 20 hours of motorcycle training.
Attend theory classes
These cover:
- UAE traffic laws
- Defensive riding
- Hazard perception
- Road signs
Many schools offer online theory lessons, making it easier to complete the requirement.
Pass the theory test
This computer-based test evaluates your understanding of local rules and safety scenarios. A passing score allows you to continue to practical training.
Complete practical training
Training is split between closed-yard practice and road riding.
A typical beginner schedule includes:
- Practice yard: manoeuvres, balance, slow control
- City driving: junctions, roundabouts, traffic flow
- Highway riding: merging, lane discipline
Pass the final road test
This test includes:
- emergency stops
- Weaving
- Controlled turns
- arking
- Real-world road assessment
Passing the road test means you can proceed to licence issuance.
Collect your licence
Once you pass, visit an Abu Dhabi Police Happiness Centre or complete the issuance through TAMM. You’ll receive a digital and physical copy of your motorcycle licence.
Costs & fees
The total cost depends on your driving school, the number of training hours, and whether you require retesting.
| Service | Approx. Fee (AED) |
| Traffic file opening | 200 |
| Eye test | 100–120 |
| Theory + practical training | 3,000–5,000 (depends on hours/experience) |
| Driving permit | 100 |
| Theory test | 220 |
| Road test | 200–220 |
| Licence issuance | 118 (under 21) / 318 (21 and over) |
| Licence conversion | 600–870 |
Total estimated cost: AED 3,500 – 5,000+, depending on school and number of training hours.
Licence exchange (approved countries)
If you already hold a valid motorcycle licence from an approved country, you may qualify for a direct exchange without training or testing.
Approved countries include:
UK, USA, Australia, Austria, Denmark, Bahrain, Qatar, and others listed on the UAE Government Portal.
Verified facts:
- Fee: AED 600–870 for conversion
- Eye test still required
- Original licence + translation (if needed) may be required
Tips, recommendations & rider insights
- Safety gear ( helmet, gloves, riding boots, and protective clothing) must be worn during training and testing.
- Link your Emirates ID to your UAE mobile number to receive SMS updates from Abu Dhabi Police.
- Training during off-peak seasons (Ramadan, summer mornings) may offer easier scheduling.
- Riders with previous experience can consider the Golden Chance single-attempt route.
- Residents with Dubai visas can still apply for a licence in Abu Dhabi.
Driving schools & training centres
Abu Dhabi has several approved training centres where riders complete their theory classes, practical lessons, and road tests. These institutes follow official Abu Dhabi Police and TAMM guidelines for motorcycle licensing.
Emirates Driving Company (EDC)
Abu Dhabi’s main motorcycle training institute is offering full beginner and advanced courses.
Other approved driving schools
Some UAE-licensed schools also assist with direct transfers and special-case training.
Key takeaways
Getting a motorcycle licence in Abu Dhabi is straightforward once you meet the age and document requirements. Expect to complete an eye test, open a traffic file, attend theory and practical training, pass your tests, and pay standard fees.
Costs typically range from AED 3,500 to 5,000, while riders from approved countries can exchange their license directly. Starting with the eye test and document checklist will save you time and prevent delays throughout the process.
FAQs
You must be 17 years old.
Most applicants finish within 2–4 months, depending on class schedules and test dates.
Yes. You can apply for a motorcycle licence in Abu Dhabi even with a visa issued in Dubai or another emirate.
Yes. Approved safety gear is mandatory during all training and tests.
If your licence is from an approved country, you may convert it directly; otherwise, you must complete most of the standard process.
