Ok so here’s the thing about Sharjah Driving License Renewal…. Let me share what I wish someone had told me when I first started dealing with this whole process. Ngl, renewing my license in Sharjah used to stress me OUT, but once you know the ins and outs, it’s actually pretty straightforward.
I’ve been living in Sharjah for nearly 7 years now, and I’ve gone through the Driving License Renewal process twice already. My most recent renewal was just last month (April 2025), so I thought I’d share all the updated info while it’s fresh in my mind. The rules and procedures change so often here that finding accurate info can be a real headache!
Why I’m Writing This Sharjah Driving License Renewal Guide
The first time I had to renew my Sharjah Driving License, I was completely lost. The official websites were confusing, and everyone I asked gave me conflicting information. I ended up making three separate trips to different offices, wasting an entire weekend, and paying extra fees because I didn’t have the right documents. 😫
So I promised myself I’d create the guide I wish I’d had. This is everything you need to know about Driving License Renewal in 2025 based on my actual experience, not just what’s written in official pamphlets.
Sharjah Driving License Renewal: The Basics You Need to Know
Let’s start with the most important stuff. Your Sharjah driving license is valid for either 2, 5, or 10 years depending on when it was issued and your age/nationality status. You can check the expiry date printed on your license – it’s right there under “Expiry Date” (duh, but I actually missed this the first time around 🤦♂️).
The renewal window for Driving License Renewal opens 30 days before your expiration date. I’d recommend starting the process at least 2 weeks before your license expires to avoid any last-minute stress or emergency fees.
Documents Required for Sharjah Driving License Renewal
Here’s what you’ll definitely need (I literally took photos of these on my phone so I wouldn’t forget anything):
- Original Emirates ID (they won’t accept a digital copy for Driving License Renewal)
- Original and copy of your current driving license
- Eye test report (must be from an authorized center)
- Passport-size photographs (white background)
- Passport copy
- Visa copy
- Application form for Sharjah Driving License Renewal
- Payment for fees
For expats like me, you’ll also need:
- Residence visa copy
- No objection letter from your sponsor (this depends on your visa type – I didn’t need one with my current employer but did with my previous one)
Sharjah Driving License Renewal Fees (Updated May 2025)
One thing that surprised me about Sharjah Driving License Renewal was how the fees can vary. Here’s the current breakdown:
- 1-year renewal: AED 110
- 2-year renewal: AED 220
- 5-year renewal: AED 320
- 10-year renewal: AED 600 (only for UAE nationals and certain visa categories)
Additional costs:
- Eye test: AED 50-100 depending on the center
- Knowledge test (if required): AED 200
- Black points clearance (if any): Varies based on violation
- Smart services fee: AED 20
I chose the 5-year option for my Driving License Renewal because it seemed like the best value for money. Tbh, I don’t know if I’ll still be here in 10 years, and renewing every 2 years is just annoying.
My Personal Experience: Sharjah Driving License Renewal Step by Step
Step 1: Eye Test for Sharjah Driving License Renewal
First things first – you need a new eye test for ur Sharjah Driving License Renewal. I went to Magrabi Optical in Sahara Center because it was convenient, but there are dozens of authorized opticians across Sharjah.
The eye test took about 10 minutes and cost me AED 70. They gave me an official certificate that I needed for the next steps of my Sharjah Driving License Renewal. Don’t lose this paper! I almost left mine at the coffee shop 😅
Pro tip: most optical centers get busy after 4pm, so try to go in the morning if possible. I went at 11am on a Tuesday and was the only person there!
Step 2: Choosing Your Sharjah Driving License Renewal Method
There are three main ways to complete your Sharjah Driving License Renewal:
- Online through the MOI UAE app – This is what I did this time
- Through service centers like Tasheel or Tasjeel
- Directly at the Sharjah Traffic Department
I tried all three methods for research purposes (the things I do for you guys! lol), and here’s my honest breakdown:
Online Sharjah Driving License Renewal
For my last Sharjah Driving License Renewal, I used the MOI UAE app, and it was by FAR the easiest method. Here’s what I did:
- Downloaded the MOI UAE app from the App Store
- Created an account (you’ll need your Emirates ID)
- Selected “Driving License Services” then “Renewal”
- Uploaded scans of all required documents
- Entered my eye test certificate number
- Paid the fees online (AED 320 + AED 20 service fee)
The whole process took me about 15 minutes. The renewed license was delivered to my apartment by courier two days later for an additional AED 30 delivery fee. Totally worth it to avoid traffic and queues!
One thing to note – you MUST have your eye test done before starting the online Sharjah Driving License Renewal process. The system won’t let you proceed without entering a valid eye test certificate number.
Service Center Sharjah Driving License Renewal
My first Sharjah Driving License Renewal was at a Tasheel center in Al Nahda. The process was:
- Arrived early (8:30am) to avoid queues
- Took a number from the machine
- Submitted documents to the counter when called
- Waited for processing (about 40 minutes)
- Paid the fees
- Collected my new license
Total time: around 2 hours including waiting. Not terrible, but definitely not as convenient as the online option for Sharjah Driving License Renewal.
Traffic Department Sharjah Driving License Renewal
I haven’t personally used this method for my own Sharjah Driving License Renewal, but my colleague Ahmed did this last year. He said it was efficient but crowded. The benefit is that you can handle any complicated situations or special requests that might not be possible online or at service centers.
Step 3: Handling Black Points During Sharjah Driving License Renewal
This is something many guides don’t mention, but it’s super important! If you have black points on your license, you’ll need to clear them before completing your Sharjah Driving License Renewal.
I had 8 black points from a speeding incident (don’t judge me, I was late for a meeting!). During my Sharjah Driving License Renewal, I was given two options:
- Pay a fine to clear the points
- Attend a traffic awareness course
I chose the course because it was cheaper (AED 100 vs AED 400 for the fine). It was actually pretty interesting – a 3-hour session at the Sharjah Traffic Institute where they showed us videos about road safety and discussed common driving mistakes.
After completing the course, I received a clearance certificate that I needed to submit with my Sharjah Driving License Renewal application.
Common Sharjah Driving License Renewal Issues and How I Solved Them
Issue #1: Expired License
My friend Sarah let her license expire for 3 months before starting her Sharjah Driving License Renewal process. Big mistake! She had to pay a late fee of AED 10 per month of delay, plus she couldn’t legally drive during that time.
If your license has already expired, you can still complete the Sharjah Driving License Renewal process, but you’ll face these additional penalties. Better to start early!
Issue #2: Missing Documents
During my first Sharjah Driving License Renewal attempt, I forgot to bring my passport copy. The service center was strict and wouldn’t proceed without it. I had to go home, get the document, and come back another day.
Double-check everything before you go! For online Sharjah Driving License Renewal, make sure all your document scans are clear and complete.
Issue #3: Name Discrepancies
My colleague Ravi had issues with his Sharjah Driving License Renewal because his name was spelled slightly differently on his Emirates ID compared to his existing license. He had to get a letter from the Embassy confirming both names referred to the same person before his Sharjah Driving License Renewal could proceed.
Check all your documents carefully for consistency in your name spelling!
Special Cases in Sharjah Driving License Renewal
Renewing from Abroad
If you’re outside the UAE when your license expires, you have a 30-day grace period after returning to complete your Sharjah Driving License Renewal. You’ll need to provide proof of travel (passport stamps or airline tickets) to avoid the late fees.
I haven’t personally done this, but my neighbor just went through this process after being stuck in Germany for 4 months due to a family emergency. She said the process was smooth once she showed her travel documents.
Transferring from Another Emirate
My cousin moved from Dubai to Sharjah last year and had to transfer his license as part of his Sharjah Driving License Renewal. He needed to provide a proof of address in Sharjah (SEWA bill) in addition to the standard documents.
The transfer process adds about AED 200 to the regular Sharjah Driving License Renewal fees, but it’s mandatory if you’ve officially changed your residence to Sharjah.
Time-Saving Tips for Sharjah Driving License Renewal
Based on my experiences, here are my top tips to make your Driving License Renewal as painless as possible:
- Do the eye test a few days before – This gives you flexibility in case there are any issues that need addressing.
- Choose off-peak hours – If you must visit in person, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings are typically quieter for Sharjah Driving License Renewal services.
- Have digital copies ready – Even if you’re going in person, having digital scans of all your documents on your phone can be a lifesaver if you need to email something quickly.
- Check for black points beforehand – You can check your traffic violations through the MOI app before starting your Driving License Renewal process.
- Consider using the app – Seriously, the online Driving License Renewal process is so much easier than going in person. Unless you have a complicated situation, this is the way to go.
What’s New for Sharjah Driving License Renewal in 2025
There have been some recent changes to the Sharjah Driving License Renewal process that might affect you:
- Digital License Option – As of March 2025, Sharjah now offers a fully digital driving license option as part of their Sharjah Driving License Renewal service. You can choose to receive only a digital version (saves AED 50) or both physical and digital.
- Extended Validity – Some expatriate professionals can now qualify for the 10-year license during their Sharjah Driving License Renewal if they meet certain criteria (specific professions and minimum residency period).
- Simplified Renewal for Senior Citizens – Residents over 60 now have a dedicated counter and simplified Sharjah Driving License Renewal process with fewer requirements.
- New Smart Centers – Five new smart service centers opened across Sharjah in early 2025, specifically designed to handle Sharjah Driving License Renewal and other traffic services with minimal waiting time.
My Final Thoughts on Sharjah Driving License Renewal
After going through the Sharjah Driving License Renewal process multiple times, I can honestly say it’s gotten much better over the years. The online options have improved dramatically, and the staff at service centers are generally helpful and efficient.
The key is to be prepared and start early. Don’t leave your Sharjah Driving License Renewal to the last minute, or you’ll risk driving with an expired license (which can result in a AED 500 fine if you’re caught!).
I hope my experience helps make your Sharjah Driving License Renewal process smoother. If you have any specific questions that I haven’t covered here, feel free to drop them in the comments and I’ll try to help based on my experience.
Remember that Sharjah Driving License Renewal is something we all have to deal with, and a little preparation goes a long way in making it painless!
P.S. This info is from May 2025 but tbh things change fast in Sharjah Driving License Renewal so double check everything! And if ur reading this later… hope things have gotten even better lol
