Renewing your car registration in Dubai is a necessary step to meet safety and legal requirements. It helps you stay compliant with RTA regulations and avoid penalties. Let’s cover the costs, documents and processes for car registration renewal in Dubai for a quick and hassle-free renewal, whether online or in person.
- Where to Renew Car Registration in Dubai
- Prepare for Registration Renewal
- Required Documents
- Process
- Fees
- Timelines and Penalties
- How to Check Registration Expiry Date
- FAQs
Where to Renew Car Registration in Dubai
Dubai offers several convenient methods for renewing your car registration, catering to different preferences and schedules. Choose the method that best suits your availability and convenience.
1. RTA Service Centres
RTA centres provide comprehensive support for car registration renewal. These centres offer end-to-end assistance, including document verification and vehicle testing. Locations include:
- Al Manara
- Umm Ramool
- Deira
2. Tasjeel Centres
Tasjeel centres specialise in vehicle testing and registration renewal services. They streamline the inspection and registration process to save you time.
You can visit locations like:
- Al Barsha
- Al Qusais
- Warsan
3. Shamil Centres
Shamil centres, operated by Emarat, are located across multiple outlets in Dubai. These centres offer quick testing and renewal services.
4. Online Services
For a completely digital experience, visit the RTA official website. The online portal allows you to:
- Upload essential documents
- Pay fees
- Schedule vehicle inspections
5. Dubai Drive App
The Dubai Drive app is a convenient and user-friendly option. It enables you to:
- Manage registration renewal
- Upload inspection certificates
- Choose delivery options for your registration documents
6. Service Kiosks
Scattered across malls and strategic locations, these kiosks provide quick registration renewal services, ensuring you can renew your registration in minutes.
Steps to Prepare for Car Registration Renewal
Before proceeding with the registration renewal, taking a few preparatory steps can save time and avoid unnecessary delays.
1. Clear All Fines
Outstanding traffic fines must be cleared before you can renew your registration. You can use the RTA website or Dubai Drive app to pay fines efficiently.
2. Renew Insurance
Ensure your vehicle insurance is valid for at least 12 months. Insurance validation is a prerequisite for successful registration renewal.
3. Vehicle Testing
For vehicles older than three years, a technical inspection is mandatory at approved car testing centres in Dubai like Tasjeel, Shamil, or Wasel. Passing this test ensures your vehicle is roadworthy.
Required Documents for Car Registration Renewal
With all the necessary documents in one place, the process of car registration renewal in Dubai speeds up. Ensure you gather the following:
- Emirates ID – Physical or digital copy.
- Valid Vehicle Insurance Policy – Coverage for at least 12 months.
- Existing Vehicle Registration Card – Must be presented for renewal.
- Vehicle Inspection Certificate – Required if your car is older than three years.
Process for Car Registration Renewal
Here’s how you can apply for car registration renewal in Dubai:
1. Renewal at RTA or Service Centres
- Visit an RTA or affiliated facility (Tasjeel, Shamil, Wasel).
- Submit the required documents for verification.
- Complete vehicle testing, if applicable.
- Pay the renewal fees and any pending fines.
- Receive your updated registration card and licence plate sticker.
2. Online Renewal via the RTA Website
- Log into your RTA account using your Emirates ID or traffic file number.
- Upload the necessary documents, including the vehicle inspection certificate.
- Pay the registration fees through a secure online gateway.
- Opt to get your registration documents delivered via courier or collect them from an RTA centre.
3. Renewal Using the Dubai Drive App
- Log into the Dubai Drive app (or create an account if you don’t have one).
- Upload documents and arrange vehicle testing, if required.
- Pay the registration fees directly through the app.
- Choose courier delivery or pickup from a kiosk location.
Fees for Car Registration Renewal
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the service fees for car registration renewal in Dubai:
| Service | Cost (AED) |
| Light Vehicle Inspection | 150 |
| Motorcycle Inspection | 150 |
| Heavy Vehicle Inspection | 200 |
| Registration Renewal Fee | 350 |
| Re-inspection Fee (Light) | 50 |
| Courier Fee | 20-50 |
| Late Renewal Penalty | 25/month |
Note: An additional knowledge and innovation fee of AED 20 applies to most services.
Timelines and Penalties
The timelines and penalties to renew car registration in Dubai are as follows:
Standard Renewal Period
Registration must be renewed annually before the expiry date.
Grace Period
A 30-day grace period after the registration expiry is allowed, free from penalties.
Late Penalties
- AED 25/month late fees start after the 30-day grace period.
- Prolonged delays may result in vehicle impounding and suspension of the traffic file.
How to Check Your Registration Expiry Date
Here’s how you can check vehicle registration expiry date in Dubai:
- RTA Website: Log into your account, go to the vehicle section and view the registration details.
- Dubai Drive App: The app provides a detailed view of your active vehicle registration status.
- SMS Notifications: RTA sends SMS reminders as your registration expiry date approaches.
- Registration Card: Look for the expiry date printed on your existing registration card.
FAQs
The registration renewal fee for light vehicles is AED 350. Additional costs may include inspection fees, courier charges, and fines for outstanding traffic violations.
Yes, a 30-day grace period is provided without penalties.
Yes, you can renew registration for multiple vehicles as long as all vehicles meet the RTA’s renewal criteria.
If you delay renewing your registration, you will incur a late fee of AED 25 for each month your registration remains expired.
No, your vehicle insurance must be valid for a minimum of 12 months to proceed with the registration renewal. You will need to renew your insurance before attempting to renew your registration.
That is all about car registration in Dubai. Just choose the method that suits your schedule and follow the right steps. You’re all set to drive once again across the emirate!
For a much cheaper commute, try Dubai’s public transportation network. If you don’t own a vehicle, you can also opt for a Dubai taxi for a private commute.
Stay connected with the Property Finder blog for more information on UAE transportation.
