What is an IDL and how to get it to rent a car in Dubai?
Car rental in Dubai is a convenient way to explore this dynamic city and its surroundings. However, an international driver’s license (IDL) may be required to rent a car.
What is an IDL and why is it necessary in Dubai?
The International Driver’s License (IDL) is created in accordance with the requirements of the UN International Convention and contains information in eight languages, with French being the key language. Visually, it is a small booklet measuring 148 mm by 105 mm, consisting of eight white pages and four colored pages. The IDL cover is gray in color. Inside the document, there is a list of countries where the possession of an international driver’s license is recommended for driving.
In addition to granting the right to drive, an international driver’s license can also be used as an identity document in some countries. For example, it can be presented when checking into a hotel or used in conjunction with a bank card. It is a common misconception that Russian national driver’s licenses are international. While they may resemble plastic driver’s licenses issued in other countries, they do not have the status of an international document.
An international driver’s license eliminates the need to pass a driving test in different countries, as it is a translation of your national driver’s license into eight key UN languages (English, French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, German, and Japanese).
When traveling abroad, if you encounter the local police, you will be required to present your international driver’s license along with your original license. You do not need to worry about the language of your national license, as the police officers will rely on the information provided in your international license. The only thing they will verify is that the photo on your national license matches the photo on your international license and your face.
In Dubai, an IDL is usually required if you are a tourist or a temporary resident and plan to rent a car. It confirms your right to drive a vehicle and supplements your national driver’s license.
How do I apply for an IDL?
The process of obtaining an IDL is quite simple. Contact the organization authorized to issue IDL in your country (State Traffic Police or Multipurpose Center). You will need to provide the following documents:
– Application for an international driver’s license.
– Copy of your national driver’s license.
– Photo of the required format.
– Payment receipt for the state fee.
An IDL is usually issued for a period of up to three years, but it cannot exceed the validity period of your national driver’s license.
Alternative options
In some cases, if you are a citizen of a certain country, your national driver’s license may be valid in Dubai without an IDL. Please check with your car rental company for more information. Additionally, if you are a resident of the UAE, you will need to obtain a local driver’s license.
Important tips
– Always check the driver’s license requirements with your chosen rental company.
– Make sure your national driver’s license and IDL are valid for the entire rental period.
– Familiarize yourself with the traffic regulations in Dubai.
Following these simple rules will help you avoid trouble and enjoy driving in Dubai.
Other useful blog articles:
RENT AND PAYMENT
Rent
Cars can be rented both on a daily basis and comprehensively, for a week, two weeks, a month, or more.
Payment
Payment can be made in cash, VISA, MasterCard, Russian cards or cryptocurrency.
Deposit will be refunded within 25 days.
Insurance
Delivery
Full coverage.
Free in Dubai.
DRIVER CONDITIONS
Docs
Driving experience
1+ years
Age
Passport and driver's license are required. International driver's licenses are also required for non-residents.
from 21+ years (depending on the car)
