Step-by-Step Procedure
Follow these verified steps in chronological sequence to avoid common administrative delays or fines:
Step 1: Pass the RTA Technical Roadworthiness Test
The seller or buyer takes the vehicle to an authorized RTA testing center (Tasjeel, Shamil, Wasel). The inspection fee is AED 170. If the vehicle is older than 3 years, a valid passing certificate (valid for 30 days) is mandatory.
Step 2: Clear Traffic Fines and Mortgages
The seller must settle all outstanding traffic fines and Salik balances. If the vehicle was financed through a bank loan, the seller must obtain an electronic mortgage release letter transmitted from the bank to the RTA.
Step 3: Buyer Purchases New Insurance Policy
The buyer must purchase an active 13-month motor insurance policy registered under their personal Emirates ID and the vehicle's chassis number before the transfer can be completed.
Step 4: Execute Transfer via RTA App or Center
Digital: Seller initiates 'Transfer Vehicle Ownership' in the RTA Dubai App using UAE Pass, enters buyer's Emirates ID, and signs the electronic sale agreement. Buyer reviews, signs, pays fees, and selects new plates. In-Person: Both parties visit an RTA Customer Happiness Center with original Emirates IDs to sign at the service counter.
Required Documents Checklist
Ensure you have the following credentials ready before initiating this service:
Official Fees Breakdown
The following figures reflect official government tariffs verified at publication time with zero markups:
| Fee Component | Amount (AED) | Notes & Validity |
|---|---|---|
| RTA Ownership Transfer Fee (Light Vehicle) | AED 350.00 | Standard transfer tariff |
| Knowledge and Innovation Fees | AED 20.00 | Standard Dubai municipal charge |
| Vehicle Technical Inspection | AED 170.00 | Required for vehicles > 3 years old |
| New Short Number Plates (Pair) | AED 70.00 | AED 35 per short plate (AED 50 per long plate) |
| Plate Ownership Certificate (If buyer keeps plates) | AED 100.00 | Optional plate certificate |
Expected Processing Timeline
RTA Smart App: 15 minutes. In-person testing center: 45 to 60 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Paying the seller cash before verifying that the bank mortgage has been released on the RTA system — RTA will strictly block transfer on financed cars.
- Buyer failing to obtain insurance before visiting the testing center, delaying the transfer.
- Letting the 30-day technical passing certificate lapse prior to transfer execution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not if both parties use the RTA Smart App with UAE Pass authentication. The entire Sale and Purchase Agreement can be executed digitally. If completing the transfer in person at a center, both parties or their legally notarized power of attorney representatives must attend.
Yes. The seller can retain their number plate by paying an RTA plate reservation fee (AED 100 to AED 200 depending on duration) and transfer it to a new vehicle later. The buyer is assigned a new plate.
By UAE custom, the buyer typically pays the RTA transfer fee (AED 350) and new plate fees, while the seller pays for the technical inspection test and clears all outstanding traffic fines. However, parties may agree otherwise.
Yes. An Abu Dhabi resident holding an Abu Dhabi Traffic File (T.C. No.) can purchase a Dubai car. The vehicle can either remain registered in Dubai or be exported/transferred to Abu Dhabi plates.
It is the official legal contract generated by the RTA that binds both parties, transfers civil and traffic liability to the buyer, and cancels the seller's responsibility from the exact timestamp of execution.
Official Sources & Verification References
Every procedure, tariff, and fine in this guide was directly verified on the following official portals:
- https://www.rta.ae (Official Portal)
- https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae (Official Portal)
- https://u.ae (Official Portal)
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