In the bustling streets of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where modernity meets tradition, adherence to traffic laws plays an essential role.
One such law that demands strict compliance is the requirement for valid vehicle registration, commonly known as “Mulkiya.”
Driving without it can lead to substantial fines and legal complications.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the implications of driving an expired vehicle in the UAE, including fines, penalties, grace period, and so on.
Ready to explore? Let’s dive deeper together!
What Happens if Mulkiya Expires?
In the UAE, vehicle owners have a one-month grace period to renew their registration (Mulkiya) after it expires.
During this grace period, insurance coverage remains intact, allowing for up to 13 months of protection after the registration’s expiration date.
However, failure to renew within this tenure can lead to significant consequences.
Penalties for Driving with an Expired Registration
Driving a vehicle with an expired registration is a serious issue in the UAE. If caught, you can expect the following penalties.
A Dh500 Fine
The primary penalty for driving without a valid registration is a hefty Dh500 fine.
This financial repercussion serves as a stark reminder of the importance of timely renewal.
Four Black Points
In addition to fines, offenders will also incur four black points on their driver’s license.
Accumulating black points can lead to more severe consequences, including potential license suspension.
Vehicle Impoundment
Article 25B of the Road Traffic Law empowers authorities to impound the vehicle with an expired license for a period of seven days.
During this time, the owner will be unable to use their vehicle, causing considerable inconvenience.
Penalties for Late Renewal
To further encourage timely renewal, the UAE imposes additional penalties for late Mulkiya renewal. These penalties vary by emirate.
Dubai
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai imposes a monthly late renewal fee of Dh35.
Other Emirates
The Ministry of Interior enforces a penalty of Dh10 per month for late renewal in all other emirates.
To avoid these financial penalties and associated hassles, it’s crucial to renew your car registration promptly and timely.
Validity of Car Registration Renewal
Car registration in the UAE is typically valid for 12 months.
The RTA mandates a 30-day notice period for online or offline registration renewals before the expiry date.
It’s important to note that car insurance in Dubai often has a 13-month validity to account for this extra grace month. However, always consult your insurance advisor to confirm this and prevent any challenging circumstances ahead.
Strict Enforcement and Random Inspections
UAE authorities take the matter of expired vehicle registration seriously due to the safety and security risks associated with unregistered vehicles.
To deter this offense, police officers conduct random inspections.
The severity of the penalty may increase if you are caught driving a car with an expired registration during these checks.
In some cases, vehicles with registrations expired for more than three months may be impounded.
Renewal Procedures
To ensure compliance with UAE’s vehicle registration laws, consider these renewal procedures.
For vehicles registered in Dubai, visit the RTA website or use RTA Smart Apps to apply for renewal online.
Keep in mind that the renewal process may take up to five days due to various steps, such as online/offline registration, testing, and verification.
Consequences of Driving with an Expired License
Driving with an expired license in the UAE is also a serious violation of traffic laws.
Offenders can expect;
- A Dh500 fine, as per the Abu Dhabi Police.
- Vehicle confiscation for a duration of seven days.
Accumulating black points on your driving record due to repeated violations, including driving with an expired license, can lead to further consequences, potentially resulting in license suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we drive with an expired license in UAE?
No, it is illegal to drive with an expired license in the UAE. A valid driver’s license is a legal requirement for operating a motor vehicle on the roads.
What is the fine for driving with an expired license in Sharjah?
The fine for driving with an expired license in Sharjah is typically AED 500. However, it is essential to check with the local traffic authorities for the most up-to-date fines and penalties.
What is the fine for an expired driving license in Ajman?
The fine for an expired driving license in Ajman is AED 500.
What is the grace period for an expired license in the UAE?
In the UAE, there is a one-month grace period for driving with an expired license. To avoid penalties and legal consequences, it is recommended to initiate the renewal process well in advance.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, driving an expired vehicle or with an expired license in the UAE carries significant legal and financial consequences.
To ensure a hassle-free driving experience and avoid fines, it is imperative to stay diligent about renewing both your vehicle registration and driver’s license on time.
Don’t let negligence behind the wheel tarnish your experience in this vibrant and diverse country.
For more information and assistance with vehicle registration renewal, visit RenewMyCarRegistration, your trusted partner in keeping you compliant with UAE’s traffic laws.