Your Dubai Driving Licence Journey as a Person of Determination
April 25, 2025
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Getting behind the wheel represents freedom and independence for many, and in Dubai, the doors to mobility are open to everyone. The UAE uses the empowering term "People of Determination" (PoD) for individuals with special needs or disabilities, reflecting a supportive stance towards inclusion 
[11]
[14]. The government actively facilitates the process for PoD to obtain a driving licence, ensuring they have the opportunity to drive safely and confidently [11][14]. This guide walks you through the specialized process, requirements, and support available for People of Determination seeking a Dubai driving licence in 2025, based entirely on the official RTA procedures 
[1][11][14].
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
So, who is eligible to apply for this specialized licence? First off, the minimum age requirement for applicants seeking a licence for vehicles adapted for People of Determination is 17 years old [1]
[6]
[7]
[8]. Like all driving licence applicants in Dubai, you must hold a valid Dubai residency visa [1][6]. Medical fitness is another key requirement, which includes passing a standard eye test but also involves a more specific medical assessment for PoD applicants to determine their driving capabilities [1]
[4][8][11]
[20].
The Specialized Path: Key Differences for PoD Applicants
While the ultimate goal – getting that Dubai driving licence – is the same, the journey for People of Determination involves a few unique steps. Think of it as a tailored pathway. The main differences include a mandatory, detailed medical assessment to understand specific needs, access to specialized training programs, and the potential use of adapted vehicles designed for individual requirements [11][14]
[17]
[18][20]. Following the medical assessment, specific approval from the RTA might be necessary before starting the training journey [11].
Step 1: The Crucial Medical Assessment
This isn't just a standard check-up; the medical assessment is a critical first step. Its purpose is twofold: to confirm your fitness to drive and to identify any necessary vehicle adaptations or specific training methods you might need [11][17][20]
[23]. Where do you go for this? Depending on the driving school you choose, you might be directed to Rashid Hospital's Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) department or another Dubai Health Authority (DHA) approved hospital [11][14][17][20][23]. Often, you'll need an issuance letter from your chosen driving school (like Emirates Driving Institute) or a certificate of transfer (as required by Bin Yaber Driving Institute) to get the assessment done [11][14][17][23]. The outcome is an approved Medical Report detailing your specific needs and capabilities for driving [11][14][17][20].
Step 2: Documentation & Choosing the Right Driving School
Alright, paperwork time! You'll need the standard documents required for any Dubai driving licence application: your original Emirates ID, a copy of your passport with the valid residence visa page, and an eye test report from an RTA-approved center [1][4][6][8]
[10][11][14]
[15]. For PoD applicants, there are crucial additions: the approved Medical Report from your assessment and potentially your Sanad Card (the official PoD card in Dubai) [11][14][17][20][23]. The Sanad Card is important as it can grant discounts on certain fees [14][17][23].
Step 3: Specialized Training & Adapted Vehicles
Based on your medical assessment, the driving school will provide tailored training designed to meet your specific needs [11][20]. A key feature of these programs is the use of adapted vehicles. These cars might be modified with features like hand controls, especially for individuals with lower limb disabilities, ensuring you can learn and operate the vehicle safely and comfortably [11][17][23]. The number of practical driving lessons required isn't fixed; it depends on the outcome of your medical assessment and can range anywhere from 12 to 32 sessions, ensuring you get the right amount of practice [11].
Step 4: Theory Classes and RTA Tests
Here’s some good news: when it comes to the official tests, PoD applicants generally follow the standard RTA pathway [11]. This means you'll need to attend the mandatory theory classes covering UAE traffic laws, signals, and safe driving practices [4][10][15]. After the classes, you must pass the RTA Theory Test, which is typically a computer-based multiple-choice exam [4][10]
[12]
[16]
[22]. Once you've cleared the theory, you'll move on to the practical tests. You need to pass the RTA Parking Test (often called the Yard Test) and the final RTA Road Test, where an examiner assesses your driving skills on public roads [10][15][16]. Your specialized training, potentially in an adapted vehicle, is designed specifically to prepare you for success in these tests [11].
Understanding the Costs & Potential Savings
Let's talk about the investment. Getting a driving licence in Dubai generally costs between AED 4,500 and AED 7,000, but this can vary based on the school, package, and number of test attempts needed 
[21]. Some schools provide specific fee structures for PoD courses; for example, Bin Yaber Driving Institute lists starting fees for their PoD beginner course [14]. You'll encounter standard RTA fees for things like opening your file, taking the tests, and the final licence issuance 
[2]
[3]
[5][14]
[19]
[25]
[27]. However, there's a significant potential for savings! Holders of the Sanad Card are often eligible for discounts, such as a 50% reduction on RTA fees, and may receive VIP services at certain schools like EDI [17][23]. Always confirm the exact costs and available discounts directly with your chosen driving school [23].
After You Pass: Accessing Special Parking Permits
Congratulations, you've passed your tests and got your licence! But the support doesn't stop there. Licensed drivers who are People of Determination can apply for special RTA parking permits [11][14][20]. These permits allow you to use the designated accessible parking spaces across Dubai, making getting around much more convenient [11][14][20]. It's worth noting that the research indicates these permits are typically available for UAE nationals and expatriates who have a vehicle registered in their own name [11]. You can apply for these permits through the RTA [11][14][20].
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