How to Register Your Car in Dubai: A Complete Guide
Monday, 16 June 2025
Owning a car in Dubai adds significant convenience, but it also comes with essential responsibilities like registering your vehicle before hitting the road. Whether you’re purchasing a new car or a second-hand one, or simply renewing your registration, here is a comprehensive guide on car registration in Dubai.
Table of Contents
- New Car Registration in Dubai
- Used Car Registration in Dubai
- Car Registration Renewal in Dubai
- Frequently asked questions
New Car Registration in Dubai
If you’re buying a brand-new car from a showroom, the dealer usually handles the registration process. However, you can also choose to register the vehicle yourself via RTA service centers or online platforms.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Valid residence visa
- Rental contract in your name
- Passport copy
Required Documents:
- Vehicle Clearance Certificate (VCC) or similar certificate
- Original Emirates ID
- Residence visa and passport copies
- Electronic vehicle insurance document
- Mortgage details (if applicable)
- Diplomatic ID and MOFA letter (if applicable)
- For companies: letter in Arabic, trade license copy, and authorization documents
Registration Channels:
- MOI Smart App (Android/iOS)
- MOI Website
- Emirates Vehicle Gate
- RTA Smart App (Android/iOS)
- RTA Website
- Abu Dhabi Police Website
- In-person: Tasjeel, Wasel, or Mumayaz Testing Centres
Validity: 1 year
Cost:
- Registration: AED 420
- Traffic file (if not existing): AED 220
Used Car Registration in Dubai
For second-hand cars, the process includes a transfer of ownership before registration. If you’re buying from a dealership, they often assist with the paperwork. If you’re purchasing privately, you must follow these steps yourself.
Required Documents:
- Traffic file
- Vehicle Technical Inspection Certificate
- Insurance document
- Emirates ID (buyer and seller)
- Residence visa and passport copies (buyer)
- Vehicle license / Mulkiya (seller)
Process:
- Conduct a technical inspection at Tasjeel or Shamil.
- Submit documents for ownership transfer.
- Pay registration fees.
- Receive new license, expiry stickers, and new plates (if applicable).
Where to Go: Tasjeel or Shamil Centres
Cost Breakdown:
- Registration: AED 450
- Technical Inspection: AED 170
- Ownership Transfer: AED 350
- Traffic file (if new): AED 220
Additional Fees:
- Short plate: AED 35
- Long plate: AED 50
- Selling agreement: AED 50
- Dubai branded plate: AED 200
- Luxury plate: AED 500
- Expiry sticker: AED 10
- Knowledge and innovation fees apply
Car Registration Renewal in Dubai
Registration is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. There’s a 30-day grace period post-expiry before late fees apply.
Documents Required:
- Original Emirates ID
- Valid driving license
- Renewed insurance
- Old registration card (Mulkiya)
- Technical inspection certificate (if car is over 3 years old)
Steps to Renew:
- Pay outstanding traffic fines
- Vehicle technical inspection (if applicable)
- Apply for renewal online, via app, or at service centres
- Pay the fee and collect new card and sticker
Cost:
- Renewal: AED 380
- Technical inspection: AED 170
- Courier (if applicable): AED 25
- Late fine: AED 25/month
Service Channels:
- Tasjeel, Shamil, Wasel, Mumayaz
- RTA Customer Happiness Centres
- Kiosk Machines
- RTA App & Website
- RTA Call Centre
Use the RTA website to check which centres offer car registration and renewal services.
Staying compliant with car registration rules in Dubai ensures a smooth driving experience. Whether it’s your first car or your fifth, following the proper process helps you avoid penalties and drive with peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost to register a car in Dubai?
The cost of registering a new car in Dubai is AED 420, plus AED 220 if you need to open a traffic file. For used cars, the registration fee is AED 450, with additional charges for technical inspection, transfer of ownership, and plate options.
Can I register my car in Dubai online?
Yes, car registration in Dubai can be done online through platforms like the RTA website or app, MOI UAE, or the Emirates Vehicle Gate. You’ll need to upload the required documents and pay the fees digitally.
What documents are required for registering a new car in Dubai?
You’ll need your Emirates ID, residence visa copy, passport copy, vehicle clearance certificate, and electronic insurance policy. If there’s a mortgage, it must be added electronically.
How do I renew my car registration in Dubai?
To renew your registration, pay any outstanding fines, pass the vehicle inspection (if your car is over 3 years old), and submit required documents like Emirates ID, driving license, and updated insurance. You can renew via RTA centers, kiosks, or online platforms.
What happens if I don’t renew my car registration on time?
There’s a 30-day grace period after your registration expires. If you don’t renew within that time, a late fine of AED 25 per month will be added. Driving with an expired registration may result in further penalties.
