UAE lowers minimum driving age to 17
Fines up to AED 200K, jail time possible for Driving Under Influence under new laws
DUBAI: The UAE has introduced a new federal decree-law on traffic regulation, reducing the minimum driving age to 17 and updating traffic laws to reflect the latest advancements in transportation technology.
This move, as announced by the UAE Media Office on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), aims to enhance road safety, keep pace with modern technology, and introduce measures to govern everything from self-driving cars to personal mobility devices.
What’s new in the Federal Traffic Law?
This decree-law is part of the UAE’s initiative to advance its legislative and legal frameworks, with significant changes to vehicle classifications and safety regulations across the board. The law expands to include advanced self-driving, electric, and other tech-based vehicles, with updated protocols for inspection, licensing, and trialling new technologies on UAE roads.
UAE Government issues Federal Decree-Law on traffic regulation, which aims to keep up with the rapid evolution of transportation worldwide#UAEGOV pic.twitter.com/AD8VgGgswn
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) October 25, 2024
Road Usage Rules and Pedestrian Safety
The decree-law includes strict rules to regulate road usage and pedestrian safety. Pedestrians are prohibited from crossing roads with speed limits exceeding 80 km/h, and violators will face civil or criminal liabilities for non-compliance. Further, vehicles are not permitted to stop for repairs on roads or curbs.
Stringent Licensing and Training Requirements
The minimum age for driving licences has been set at 17 years, aligning with international standards. Driving trainers must hold valid licences and be authorised by the licensing authority to train. They must also verify that trainees can control the vehicle before allowing them to drive in populated areas. Furthermore, the licensing authority reserves the right to suspend, cancel, or reject a licence renewal if a driver is found medically unfit or otherwise unqualified.
Vehicle Modification approvals and Insurance rules
The decree-law prohibits any unauthorised changes to the vehicle’s shape, body, engine power, or colour. Changes can only be made with the licensing authority’s approval. Additionally, insurance companies must provide full coverage for civil liabilities arising from accidents, without imposing conditions that would limit their liability for injuries or property damage.
Penalties for Violations and Offences
Penalties are now in place for several traffic violations to deter risky driving practices:
- Misuse of Licence Plates: AED 20,000 fine and possible imprisonment.
- Driving Under the Influence: For driving under the influence of alcohol, offenders may face a fine between AED 20,000 and AED 100,000 or imprisonment; for driving under the influence of narcotics or psychotropic substances, fines range from AED 30,000 to AED 200,000 with possible imprisonment.
- Driving with a Suspended Licence: Imprisonment of up to 3 months or a minimum AED 10,000 fine.
- Fleeing an Accident Scene: Up to 1 year of imprisonment and a fine ranging from AED 50,000 to AED 100,000.
- Causing Death by Negligence: Minimum AED 50,000 fine or imprisonment. In aggravated circumstances, such as driving in a flooded area, penalties increase to at least AED 100,000 and one year of imprisonment.
Hazardous Material Transport Permits
Drivers transporting hazardous materials or unusually large loads must now obtain a special permit from the relevant authority. This regulation ensures that such loads meet safety standards, helping to minimise risks associated with transporting potentially dangerous materials.
New technologies for Road Safety and Fines
Under this law, the UAE’s licensing authorities will establish online and smart systems for managing licences and permits. These digital solutions will streamline the licensing process while facilitating the imposition of fines for non-compliance. The Federal Traffic Council, whose creation is defined by the new decree, will oversee the law’s implementation and make additional recommendations to enhance UAE road safety.
These new traffic regulations mark a significant step in the country's commitment to road safety and technological advancement, aligning with the latest global developments and addressing modern transportation needs head-on.