If you’ve ever dreamed of feeling the wind on your face as you ride a motorcycle through Dubai’s bustling streets or take a scooter along scenic UAE routes, the Category 2 UAE Driving License is the key to making it happen. It is not an ordinary piece of paper, but also your ticket to two-wheel mobility without being overrun by the police and having to pay big fines, as they say.
This guide will give you all the steps you need to know: who can apply, what documentation is necessary, how to pass your tests, the duration of your license, and the penalties to be avoided.
What is a Category 2 UAE Driving Licence?
The UAE driving license Category 2 is particularly meant to be used when driving motorcycles or scooters. This license is a requirement when you intend to drive any motorized two-wheeled vehicle on public roads.
Vehicles Covered Under Category 2
When you hold a Category 2 license, you can operate:
- Standard Two-Wheel Motorcycles: Any personal use petrol or electric motorcycle.
- Mopeds and scooters: less-powered two-wheelers, gas and electric.
- Delivery Bikes: It is most often deployed by restaurants and courier services.
- Motorcycles with a Sidecar: Useful for certain delivery and transport purposes.
This category is highly popular with delivery riders and expats who want an affordable and flexible mode of transport.
Eligibility Criteria
You should first ensure that you can meet the strict eligibility criteria in the UAE before you start on your application. I will give them out in a nutshell.
Age Requirement
- You must be at least 17 years old to apply for a Category 2 license in the UAE.
- If you’re under 18, you cannot apply – even with parental consent.
Residency Status
- You must hold a valid UAE residence visa.
- Tourists and visa holders cannot apply for a UAE driving license.
Health & Vision Requirements
- You must pass a vision test conducted at an RTA-approved eye test center.
- Your vision must sufficiently provide the standard minimal driving ability.
- In case you use glasses or contact lenses, make sure that they are updated prior to your test.
Application of the UAE Driving License Category 2
I have walked several of them through the process, and I can tell you that it is easy as long as you follow the right steps. And this is the whole process in detail.
1. Open a Traffic File
- Visit an RTA customer happiness center or your chosen driving school.
- Submit your Emirates ID and residence visa details.
- Pay the initial file opening fee.
2. Eye Test
- Get your eye test done at any RTA-approved optician.
- The results are automatically uploaded to the RTA system.
3. Join a Driving School
- Choose an RTA-certified driving school within your emirate (e.g., Emirates Driving Institute, Galadari, Dubai Driving Center).
- Provide:
- Emirates ID copy
- Passport and visa copy
- Eye test results
- Passport-sized photos
- Pay the training package fee.
4. Attend Theory Classes
- You’ll attend theory classes on road safety, traffic laws, and motorcycle handling.
- Classes are available in multiple languages and formats (in-person or online).
- Topics include:
- Traffic signs
- Defensive riding techniques
- Emergency handling
5. Pass the Theory Test
- The theory test is taken at the driving school or RTA center.
- Test format:
- Multiple-choice questions
- Questions on hazard perception
- You need to pass before moving on to road training.
6. Practical Riding Lessons
- You’ll train on a motorcycle provided by the school.
- Lessons cover:
- Balance and control
- Gear shifting (if manual)
- Braking techniques
- Riding in different weather and traffic conditions
- The number of lessons depends on your experience level.
7. Final Road Test
- Book your road test through the RTA.
- The examiner will assess:
- Road positioning
- Use of signals
- Emergency braking
- Adherence to traffic rules
- If you fail, you can retake after additional lessons.
8. License Issuance
- Once you pass, your Category 2 driving license will be issued.
- Can collect it in person or receive it digitally via the RTA app.
Read Also: UAE Category 4 License Guide 2025: Drive Heavy Trucks
Validity of the UAE Driving License Category 2
Understanding the validity is important to avoid unnecessary penalties.
- First-time license: Valid for 2 years for all residents.
- Renewals:
- UAE/GCC nationals – Valid for 10 years after renewal.
- Expatriates – Valid for 5 years after renewal.
Renewal Process for Category 2 License
When your license expires, the renewal process is quick if you plan.
Steps to Renew:
- Get a new eye test report from an RTA-approved center.
- Pay renewal fees via:
- RTA website
- RTA mobile app
- RTA service center
- Receive your new license instantly.
Note:
- Renewal: There are no driving tests necessary unless your license has expired for longer than 10 years.
- With a long expiration, you will have to take the theory and road exams again.
Penalties & Category 2 Rules
Motorists face unique risks, hence a lot of strict laws exist. This is what you should bear in mind.
Common Penalties
- Fines: This can be AED 300-3000, depending on the violation.
- Black Points: Too many might result in the suspension of the license.
- Vehicle Impounding: Your motorcycle may be confiscated in extreme cases.
Category 2 Key Rules
- Always wear a helmet; it is the law.
- Be careful with speed.
- Never ride between cars and pavements.
- Keep your bike always up to safety standards.
FAQs
1. What is a Category 2 license UAE?
The Category 2 license enables you to ride motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, and delivery bikes legally in the UAE. It’s required for both personal and commercial riding.
2. What driving licenses are there in the UAE?
The UAE has different licenses that acknowledge specific vehicles: motorcycles (Category 1 & 2), light vehicles, heavy trucks, and buses. Understanding your type ensures you are on the right and legal vehicle.
3. What is a UAE Category 4 license?
A Category 4 license is for driving heavy trucks and trailers. It’s essential for professional truck drivers working in logistics and transport.
4. What is a Category 5 UAE license?
A Category 5 license covers heavy buses carrying more than 26 passengers. It’s required for operating public or commercial passenger buses.
Read Also: Close Bank Account in Dubai Fast: 3 Easy Ways (2025)
Final Words
Still considering riding a motorbike in the UAE, a Category 2 driving license is not by any means a formality, and actually, it is a stone of passage in order to ride and do it legally and safely. I have provided you with the detailed guide in order to make you follow the procedures as it is and without confusion. It is all about the eligibility and registration procedures for the final stage of the road test.
You should pass all the requirements and observe the regulations on whether it is your first license or a renewal. Obtain your license, learn to have some fun on the road, and stay safe on the UAE roads.
