UAE sets 12 grounds to suspend, cancel or refuse renewal of driving licences

New federal traffic regulations set 12 cases in which a UAE driving licence can be suspended, cancelled or refused renewal. They take effect on 1 January 2027. The rules implement the 2024 federal traffic law, Decree-Law No. 14.

The measures rest on a driver's traffic record, medical fitness and court rulings.

Suspension, cancellation and refused renewal

Licensing authorities may suspend a licence or permit in three cases: a court ruling, reaching the cumulative limit of black points, or a finding that the holder lacks the legal capacity or medical fitness to drive.

Cancellation is possible in five cases: a court ruling, reaching the black points limit, a request from the holder, the holder's death, or a finding of lacking legal capacity or medical fitness.

Renewal may be refused in four cases: lack of legal capacity or medical fitness, a court ruling, outstanding traffic violations on the driver's file, or reaching the black points limit.

The regulations also oblige medical authorities in every emirate to work with licensing bodies. They must pass on information about people diagnosed with conditions that might impair safe driving.

Renewal and eye test rules

Under Article 73, a renewal application must be submitted within 30 days of the licence expiring. Fees must be paid and the licensing authority's procedures completed. Before renewing, drivers must settle traffic fines or show proof of payment of any court-imposed fines.

Under Article 76, a driver renewing more than 10 years after expiry, without renewing in between, must pass theory and practical tests set by the licensing authority. The Federal Traffic Council is to determine the minimum content of these tests.

Article 62 sets eye requirements. Light vehicle drivers need visual acuity of at least 6/18 in each eye separately. With loss of sight in one eye, the working eye must reach at least 6/6. Bus drivers, as well as those operating heavy or light equipment, need at least 6/6 in both eyes. Licensing authorities may also take eye reports issued abroad, including from holders of expired licences applying to renew.

For residents and visitors who drive in the UAE, the main practical points are clearing any unpaid fines before renewal and applying within 30 days of expiry. Those who rent a car can check options in the car rental catalog.

Gulf News reported the details on 7 November 2026.