Here’s How Driving In The US Will Become Easier For UAE Motorists

Alifiya H Ujjainwala
Alifiya H Ujjainwala

As global tourism season sparks interest, there’s an update for UAE residents traveling to and from the US. UAE driving licenses will soon be recognized in the US state of Texas, authorities announced on Tuesday. Under a new agreement, motorists holding a valid UAE driving license will be able to exchange it for a Texas-issued license without the need to undergo driving tests. This initiative aims to streamline procedures for UAE residents and visitors wishing to drive legally in Texas.

In the UAE, foreigners holding US driving licenses have been able to convert their driving permits under the Ministry of Interior’s (MoI) “Markhoos” initiative, which also eliminates the need for a driving test. In Dubai, the process of converting a foreign driving license into a UAE license can be completed conveniently online, at a cost of approximately AED900.

This agreement follows an understanding between the UAE’s Ministry of Interior (MoI) and the Texas Department of Public Safety. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will facilitate the mutual recognition of driving licenses between the two jurisdictions, allowing drivers to easily swap their UAE licenses for Texas licenses.

This will enhance mobility, simplify the licensing process, and support seamless travel between the UAE and the United States, benefiting both residents and visitors.