Transferring a used vehicle between two private people in Dubai is done with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), either at a typing centre or in the RTA app. With the paperwork ready it typically takes 30–60 minutes, and the total cost is usually AED 400–600.
Before you start
Seller
- All traffic fines on the vehicle must be cleared. The transfer cannot go through with fines outstanding.
- If the vehicle is financed, you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the bank.
Buyer
- You need insurance for the vehicle in your own name.
- You need a UAE driving licence.
Documents
- Emirates ID for both parties and the vehicle's registration card (Mulkiya) (to be verified).
Fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Ownership transfer (RTA) | AED 350 |
| Knowledge and innovation fees | AED 20 |
| Number plates | AED 35–50 |
| Selling agreement | AED 50 |
| Periodic technical test (vehicles older than 3 years) | AED 150 |
| Typical total | AED 400–600 |
The total depends on whether new plates and a technical test are needed.
Step by step
- Clear fines and get the NOC. The seller pays any outstanding fines and, if the vehicle is financed, obtains the bank NOC.
- Technical test if needed. Vehicles older than three years need the periodic test (AED 150).
- Buyer's insurance. The buyer arranges insurance in their own name.
- Selling agreement and transfer. Complete the transfer at a typing centre or in the RTA app and pay the fees: AED 350 for the transfer, AED 20 knowledge and innovation fees and AED 50 for the selling agreement, plus AED 35–50 for plates.
- Done. The vehicle is registered to the buyer. Both parties keep the receipt.
Checklist
- Fines cleared
- Bank NOC (financed vehicles)
- Periodic test passed (vehicles older than 3 years)
- Buyer's insurance in their own name
- Buyer's UAE driving licence
- About AED 400–600 set aside for fees