
Renewing your vehicle registration is critical for all Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah car owners. It ensures that your car is legally compliant and safe to drive. This guide to vehicle registration renewal provides a detailed breakdown of the renewal process, associated costs, required documents, and key deadlines for 2025. Whether you need to renew your light vehicle registration or go through Shamil vehicle testing and registration, we've got you covered.
Why Vehicle Registration Renewal is Important in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah
In Dubai, the RTA vehicle registration renewal system is crucial for ensuring the legality and safety of your vehicle. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) requires annual vehicle registration renewal. Driving with an expired registration can lead to penalties, black points on your license, or even vehicle impoundment. Regular vehicle registration renewal is necessary to ensure your car complies with safety and environmental regulations.
If you live in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or another emirate, the process is similar, though there may be slight variations in fees and service centers. Abu Dhabi and Sharjah vehicle registration follow their specific guidelines, but the vehicle registration renewal steps are nearly identical to those in Dubai.
Cost of Vehicle Registration Renewal in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The cost of vehicle registration renewal in the UAE depends on the type and weight of the vehicle. Here's an overview of the renewal fees for different cars:
- Light Vehicles (under 3 tons): AED 350
- Vehicles between 3–12 tons: AED 400
- Heavy Vehicles (over 12 tons): AED 800
- Motorcycles: AED 200
Additional Fees:
- Vehicle Inspection Fee: AED 170–200 (depending on the type of inspection)
- Late Renewal Fee: AED 25 per month after the 30-day grace period
- Outstanding Traffic Fines: Must be cleared before renewal
- Insurance: Must be valid for at least 12 months
- Courier Fee: AED 20–50 (if opting for delivery of the registration card)
Required Documents for Vehicle Registration Renewal in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah
Before starting the vehicle registration renewal process, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Valid Emirates ID
- Vehicle Insurance Policy (valid for at least 12 months)
- Previous Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya)
- Vehicle Inspection Certificate (for vehicles older than 3 years)
- Traffic File Number (found on the Mulkiya or vehicle purchase documents)
Steps to Renew Vehicle Registration in Dubai
1. Online Renewal for RTA Vehicle Registration Renewal
Renewing your vehicle registration online is the quickest and easiest method through the RTA vehicle registration renewal portal or the Dubai Drive app.
Steps for Online Renewal:
- Log into the RTA system.
- Settle any unpaid fines or Salik charges.
- Upload the required documents.
- Calculate the renewal fee.
- Receive your new registration card either from a local center or via courier.
RTA vehicle registration renewal allows a hassle-free process, mainly if you're located in Dubai.
2. In-person Renewal at Approved Centers
You can also renew your vehicle registration at authorized centers like Tasjeel and Shamil vehicle testing and registration or visit RTA Customer Happiness Centers. You'll need to get your car inspected if it's over 3 years old.
Steps for In-person Renewal:
- Get your car inspected at an authorized vehicle registration office.
- Gather all the necessary paperwork.
- Pay the required fees.
- Receive your updated registration card and plate sticker.
Vehicle Registration Renewal Steps for Abu Dhabi and Sharjah
Online Vehicle Registration Renewal in Abu Dhabi:
- Log into the Abu Dhabi vehicle registration renewal portal or the TAMM app.
- Settle any outstanding fines or DARB charges.
- Upload the necessary documents, such as your insurance policy and previous registration card.
- Calculate the renewal fees.
- Receive your updated registration card via courier or at an authorized center.
In-person Vehicle Registration Renewal in Abu Dhabi:
- Visit an Abu Dhabi vehicle registration office such as Tasjeel.
- Complete a vehicle inspection (for vehicles older than 3 years).
- Submit the required documents.
Pay the renewal fees and receive your updated registration card and plate sticker.
Online Vehicle Registration Renewal in Sharjah:
- Log into the Sharjah vehicle registration renewal website or use the Sharjah Transport app.
- Settle any unpaid fines or charges.
- Upload required documents.
- Pay the renewal fees and receive your registration card by mail or at a center.
In-person Vehicle Registration Renewal in Sharjah:
- Visit an authorized Sharjah vehicle registration center like Wasel.
- Get your vehicle inspected if it's over 3 years old.
- Submit the required documents and pay the renewal fees.
- Receive your updated registration card and plate sticker.
Penalties and Deadlines for Vehicle Registration Renewal
- Registration Validity: Vehicle registration is valid for one year.
- Renewal Window: You can renew your vehicle registration up to 150 days before expiration.
- Grace Period: There is a 30-day grace period after the expiry date without penalties.
- Late Fee: A fee of AED 25 is charged each month beyond the grace period.
- Impoundment Risk: Vehicles that remain unregistered for three months or longer may be impounded.
It's essential to ensure that your vehicle registration renewal is completed on time to avoid fines and impoundment, particularly for vehicles in Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, or Dubai.
Tips for Smooth Vehicle Registration Renewal
- Set Reminders: Schedule your renewal date well to avoid last-minute issues.
- Clear Outstanding Fines Early: Settle all fines before starting the vehicle registration renewal process to avoid delays.
- Check Your Insurance: Ensure your car insurance is valid for 12 months before beginning the renewal process.
- Book Inspections Early: Inspect your vehicle early to avoid last-minute complications.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free vehicle registration renewal in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah. Stay compliant, avoid unnecessary fines, and keep your car in good standing.
Important Note: Vehicle Registration Renewal Requires Active Insurance Coverage
Make sure you have valid insurance before starting the vehicle registration renewal process. Get the best rates for your vehicle insurance in just a few minutes with Insure Now. Get your free quote today!