Starting March 29, 2025, UAE residents aged 17 can apply for a driving licence, marking a significant shift in legal driving age from 18.
- This change is expected to impact thousands, granting earlier mobility while emphasizing strict training requirements.
- Driving schools prepare for a surge in registration as 17-year-olds begin their journey to independence.
- Applicants must complete all standard procedures, with safety regulations unchanged, ensuring responsibility on the roads.
- The update aligns UAE with global standards, balancing young drivers’ freedom and rigorous road safety.
Starting March 29, the UAE will officially allow 17-year-olds to apply for a driving licence, a significant change from the previous minimum age of 18. This development follows a federal decree made in October 2024, aimed at granting young residents earlier mobility while maintaining the same stringent safety and training guidelines. Residents eager for independence can take this opportunity, but must adhere to all current rules and requirements.
With the change primarily affecting light vehicle licences, young drivers must complete comprehensive training. This includes standard theory and practical classes, ensuring that every new driver is fully prepared before hitting the road. The law’s requirements remain stringent to ensure road safety isn’t compromised. This means all documents, identity verifications, and the structure of driving tests stay as before.
The change brings forth more than just individual benefits. It aims to reduce dependence on school transport services and offers greater flexibility for extracurricular activities and part-time jobs, easing the logistical load on families. This is particularly advantageous for residents in areas lacking extensive public transportation options.
In anticipation of the new rule, driving schools expect a considerable increase in the number of young applicants. They are ramping up their resources, from scheduling more classes to potentially hiring additional instructors, to meet the expected demand. However, the quality and rigor of training sessions will remain consistent, ensuring thorough preparation for new drivers.
It’s important to note that the new rule permits only light vehicle licences for 17-year-olds. They won’t be eligible for heavy vehicle, motorcycle, or commercial licences, which remain bound by their respective age limitations. This approach ensures young drivers aren’t overwhelmed by complex driving responsibilities and maintains focused training on essential driving skills.
While holding a licence allows 17-year-olds to drive under legal circumstances, there are still limitations. Car insurance remains a crucial requirement, with some policies imposing age-related restrictions. Families should ensure coverage is in place before these young drivers take to the roads. Additionally, the vehicle driven by minors must meet insurance standards to safeguard against legal and financial repercussions.
As the UAE embraces the new driving age policy, young residents are poised to gain valuable independence within a structured and safe framework, aligning the nation with global practices while ensuring that road safety remains paramount.
Source: Damacproperties
