New Procedure for the Exchange of Driver’s Licenses for Citizens of Kazakhstan in the UAE

On 25 June 2026, a Memorandum on the Mutual Recognition and Exchange of Driver’s Licenses was signed between the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Ministry of Interior of the United Arab Emirates.

The purpose of the Memorandum is to ensure the mutual recognition of driver’s licenses and to simplify the administrative procedures for exchanging them for citizens who permanently reside in the territory of the other state.

Please note that the simplified procedure applies only to:

• Category B (passenger cars);
• Subcategory B1 (light three- and four-wheeled vehicles), in accordance with the equivalent categories established under the legislation of both countries.

Citizens of Kazakhstan who obtained their first driver’s license in the UAE may exchange it for a Kazakh national driver’s license. They are not required to complete driving school training again or pass a practical driving test. Only the theoretical examination must be passed.

The Memorandum is concluded for an indefinite period and enters into force 30 calendar days after its signing, i.e., on 25 July 2026.

Requirements for Exchanging a Driver’s License

Applicants must:

• hold a valid residence permit;
• present a valid driver’s license;
• meet the minimum age requirement (at least 18 years old);
• provide a notarized or officially certified translation of the driver’s license;
• undergo a medical examination and obtain a medical certificate (including an Eye Test);
• comply with any other requirements established by the legislation of the receiving state.

After the exchange, the applicant retains their national driver’s license.

Important: The practical implementation of the Memorandum will begin only after it officially enters into force, namely on 25 July 2026.