New UAE Traffic Law: Driving License Age Is Now 17 Years

In an impactful move aimed at reshaping road safety standards, the UAE government recently issued a federal decree law on traffic regulations that updates various traffic-related rules. Among the most notable changes under the new UAE traffic law is the reduction in the minimum age for obtaining a driving license.

This amendment lowers the age from 18 to 17 years, making the UAE the first among GCC nations to do so. The new rules will come into effect on 29 March 2025.

UAE Reduces Minimum Driving Age To 17

Reducing the minimum age for obtaining a driving license has long been discussed in UAE’s road safety circles. This decision has been well-received as it reflects both a modern approach and a step toward providing younger residents with mobility and independence.

With the new law in place, drivers aged 17 can legally apply for a license after fulfilling requirements, including passing theoretical and practical driving exams. This regulation aims to create a new generation of young, responsible drivers by instilling road safety habits early, which could contribute positively to overall road safety in the UAE.

The change is also likely to encourage the use of formal driving education at an early age, which can improve driving standards. The UAE is keen on developing safer driving habits and reducing road accidents, and by educating drivers from a younger age, the authorities are likely to see improvements in this area.

Furthermore, allowing 17-year-olds to drive provides them with an opportunity to gain supervised driving experience before fully embarking on independent driving. Here’s a complete guide to getting a UAE driving license including prices, tips, tricks, and more.

Other Countries With Lower Driving Ages

Lowering the legal driving age is not unique to the UAE; other nations also have similar or even lower minimum ages. For instance, in the United States, 16-year-olds are eligible to apply for a provisional driving license, depending on the state. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, teenagers can apply for a provisional license at 15 years and 9 months old, and begin driving at 17 years old, under supervised conditions.

Australia also has a flexible licensing structure where, in some states, learners can start driving at 16. Germany, known for its rigorous driving standards, allows 17-year-olds to acquire a “Begleitetes Fahren” (accompanied driving) permit, where they drive under the supervision of a qualified adult until they turn 18. By adopting these age standards, the UAE provides younger drivers with mobility while also setting a strong foundation for safe driving.

Other Amendments Under the Federal Decree Law

Apart from the change in age requirements, the new decree also introduces updated measures addressing penalties and safety regulations. The law includes stricter rules against reckless driving, as well as stiffer fines for serious offenses. Here’s a list of the new amendments under the new UAE traffic law.

Adjustment of vehicle classification to accommodate the growing use of self-driving and electric vehicles as well as personal transportation.
Determining conditions and procedures for inspecting, registering, licensing, re-registering, and renewing self-driving vehicles.
Prohibiting pedestrians from crossing roads whose speed limits exceed 80km/h. Failure to comply with this would result in civil or criminal liability for the pedestrians.
Prohibition of vehicles that make a lot of noise
Banning the use of alarm systems within cities
Prohibition on the transport of hazardous materials and unusual loads without permits from relevant authorities.
Several deterrent penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics, escaping the scene of the accident, crossing the road at non-designated spots, and driving in a valley while it is flooding.

Here’s a complete and detailed list of traffic fines in Dubai. The federal decree law on traffic regulations, with its noteworthy focus on younger drivers, is a forward-looking development. As the law takes effect, the emphasis remains on cultivating a culture of road safety among all drivers.

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Also Read:

What are the new rules for driving in the UAE?

The UAE government has introduced several new regulations including a new minimum age for getting a driving license, new laws for autonomous vehicles, and a few other deterrent laws listed in this article.

What is the fine for speeding in Dubai?

The fine for speeding in Dubai starts at AED 600, going up to AED 2,000 and a vehicle impound of up to 30 days.

What is the new minimum age limit for getting a driving license in the UAE?

According to the new traffic law announced by the UAE, the minimum age limit for getting a driving license in the UAE is 17 years.

When will the new traffic rules come into effect in the UAE?

The newly introduced federal decree law on traffic regulations will come into effect on 29 March, 2025.