Audi
Cadillac
Genesis
Kia
MG
Nissan
Suzuki
BMW
Changan
Honda
Lamborghini
Mazda
Polaris
Tesla
Bentley
Dodge
Hyundai
Lexus
McLaren
Porsche
Toyota
Bugatti
Ford
Infiniti
Land Rover
Mitsubishi
Peugeot
Haval
Chrysler
Ferrari
Jaguar
Lincoln
Mercedes
Rolls Royce
Hongqi
Chevrolet
GMC
Jetour
Maserati
Mini
Renault
Jeep
Getting a driver’s license in the UAE can be confusing for many people. This is especially true when it comes to understanding what each license category means. If you are looking to drive a car in the UAE, then UAE Driving License Category 3 is likely the one you need. This blog will explain everything about Category 3. We’ll cover the types of vehicles allowed, who is eligible, and how to apply. We’ll also include two useful tables for easy reference.
What is UAE Driving License Category 3?
UAE Driving License Category 3 allows you to drive light motor vehicles. This is the most common driving license issued in the country. If you plan to drive a private car, this is the category you should apply for. Light motor vehicles include sedans, hatchbacks, small SUVs, and small pickups. You cannot drive motorcycles, heavy trucks, or buses with this license. Many people search for “Light vehicle license UAE Category 3” when planning to get a license for private or company use. This category covers most common personal vehicles.
What Vehicles Are Allowed in Category 3 License UAE?
One of the most frequent questions is: What vehicles are allowed in Category 3 license UAE? The table below gives a quick overview.
Allowed Vehicles – UAE Driving License Category 3
| Vehicle Type | Examples | Notes |
| Sedans | Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic | Common private use |
| Hatchbacks | Suzuki Swift, Kia Picanto | City-friendly vehicles |
| Small SUVs | Hyundai Tucson, Nissan X-Trail | Suitable for family use |
| Light Pickups | Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger | Often used by small businesses |
| Crossovers | Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5 | Comfortable and compact |
All of them are light vehicles. Any heavier one will involve a different license.
UAE Driving License Categories Explained
So as to understand Category 3 better, let us briefly see UAE driving license categories in easy words. Some types of vehicles are divided into several categories in the UAE:
| Category | Vehicle Type | Example Vehicles |
| 1 | Motorcycle | Bikes, scooters |
| 2 | Light Bus | Passenger vans |
| 3 | Light Vehicles (cars) | Sedans, small SUVs |
| 4 | Heavy Trucks | Large commercial trucks |
| 5 | Heavy Bus | Large passenger buses |
As you can see, Category 3 covers light vehicles, which are the most used on UAE roads.
Cost of Getting Category 3 License in UAE
The cost can vary depending on how many classes you need. On average:
Beginners: AED 4500 to AED 8000
With prior license: AED 3000 to AED 5000
Test fees: Included in most packages
Eye test: AED 100 to AED 150
Eligibility for Category 3 Driving License UAE
To apply for a Category 3 driving license, you must meet some basic requirements. Let’s go over the eligibility.
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum age: 18 years old
Residency: Must have a valid UAE residency visa
Health: Fit to drive with a passed eye test
No legal restrictions: No current driving bans or serious traffic offenses
Training: Must complete driving classes from an authorized driving school
Many expats ask about eligibility for Category 3 driving license UAE. The main condition is having a residency visa and being at least 18 years of age.
Documents Required
To start your application process, you need to gather a few important documents.
List of Required Documents
- Emirates ID (original and copy)
- Passport with visa page
- Eye test result (done at approved center)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) – if required by employer
- Passport-size photos
- Copy of existing driving license (if converting from another country)
How to Apply for UAE Driving License Category 3
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to applying:
- Open a file at a certified driving school like EDI, Galadari, or Belhasa.
- Submit documents and pay registration fees.
- Take an eye test at an approved optical center.
- Attend theory classes (online or in-person).
- Pass the RTA theory test.
- Start practical training in parking and road driving.
- Pass internal tests (parking + assessment).
- Take the final RTA road test.
- Get your license issued after passing.
Training can include 10 to 40 classes depending on your prior driving experience.
Renewing Your Category 3 License
The driving license is valid for:
- 2 years for first-time applicants
- 10 years for UAE/GCC citizens
- 5 years for residents (after first renewal)
To renew:
- Take a new eye test
- Pay the renewal fee (approx. AED 300 to AED 400)
- Clear any outstanding fines
Tips to Pass on First Attempt
- Practice regularly during training
- Understand traffic rules and road signs
- Stay calm during the RTA test
- Don’t speed or break lane discipline
- Use mirrors and indicators at all times
Final Words
The UAE Driving License Category 3 is also necessary in driving such light vehicles as cars and SUV. Being a resident or expatriate, this license offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional driving. Train under an approved school and under RTA recommendations all the time. When you are wondering what cars are allowed in Category 3 license UAE, all you have to do is just put in mind that light motor vehicles are allowed. After all, now you are aware of all the categories of the driving license in the UAE described, you may comfortably proceed to the application process and drive safely.
Check More:
