3 Cases Where Your Driving Licence Can Be Suspended in UAE

The United Arab Emirates is implementing a new federal traffic law on March 29, 2025, introducing stricter regulations and penalties aimed at enhancing road safety nationwide. These changes affect all road users, emphasizing responsible driving behavior and compliance with the law.

Licence Suspension and Revocation

Under Article 12 of the updated law, authorities have the power to suspend, cancel, or refuse the renewal of driving licences in specific situations:

1. Medical or Qualification Concerns

If a driver is deemed medically unfit or lacks the necessary qualifications to operate a vehicle, their licence may be suspended or revoked. This measure ensures that only capable individuals are permitted to drive.

2. Security and Traffic Safety Risks

Licences can be suspended if the driver poses a threat to public safety or violates traffic regulations that endanger others on the road.

3. Regulatory Compliance

The law outlines procedures for reassessing and rehabilitating drivers whose licences have been suspended, ensuring they meet all necessary criteria before returning to the road.

Exemptions from Holding a UAE Driving Licence

Certain individuals are exempt from obtaining a UAE driving licence:

• Military and Police Personnel: Members of the military, security, and police forces operating military vehicles, provided they have the appropriate permits from their respective authorities.
• Visitors and Tourists: Drivers with valid licences from foreign countries or international driving permits (IDP) recognized in the UAE can drive temporarily. However, residents must obtain a UAE driving licence to continue driving legally.

Penalties for Driving Without a Valid Licence

The new law imposes severe penalties for driving without a valid licence:

• First Offense: Fines ranging from AED 2,000 to AED 10,000 for using an unrecognized foreign licence.
• Repeat Offenses: Up to three months imprisonment and fines between AED 5,000 and AED 50,000.
• Driving with a Suspended Licence: Penalties include imprisonment of up to three months and/or a fine of at least AED 10,000.

Vehicle Inspection and Modification Regulations

Authorities now have the right to recall and inspect any vehicle to ensure compliance with safety standards:

• Unsafe Vehicles: If a vehicle is deemed unfit for use, the owner must complete necessary repairs and pass a technical inspection before returning to the road.
• Unauthorized Modifications: Major changes, such as altering the vehicle's body, engine power, or color, require prior approval from the licensing authority. Unauthorized modifications are prohibited.
• Repair Restrictions: Repair centers must obtain a permit from the traffic control authority before repairing vehicles with accident damage.

Licence Plate Violations

The law also addresses offences related to licence plates:

• Forgery or Alteration: Creating, imitating, or altering licence plates is punishable by imprisonment and/or a fine of at least AED 20,000.
• Unauthorized Use: Allowing others to use a defaced or altered licence plate, or transferring a plate between vehicles without approval, carries similar penalties.