What is a Traffic Clearance Certificate? If you live in the UAE and own a vehicle or hold a UAE-issued driving license, you might have come across the term Traffic Clearance Certificate. This document is an essential proof that confirms you have settled all your traffic fines and there are no pending violations or circulars registered against you or your vehicle. It is particularly important when selling your vehicle, transferring ownership, exporting a car, or even when you need to prove a clean record for official or business reasons.
What is a Traffic Clearance Certificate?
A Traffic Clearance Certificate is an official document issued by the relevant licensing authorities in the UAE, such as the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) or the Abu Dhabi Police. It certifies that:
- You have no outstanding traffic fines on your record.
- There are no circulars (legal blocks) against your vehicle or driving license, such as bans or unpaid violations.
This certificate gives you peace of mind and is often required for transactions like selling or exporting a car, transferring ownership, or even applying for certain government services.
Why is a Traffic Clearance Certificate Important?
Here’s why obtaining a traffic clearance certificate is crucial for every UAE driver:
| Purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Sale & Transfer | Mandatory to show there are no fines or pending issues. |
| Vehicle Export | Needed to clear the car from the UAE system for export. |
| Renewals & Upgrades | Often required for license renewals or category upgrades. |
| Official Record Keeping | Acts as proof of a clean driving and ownership history. |
| Business & Employment | Some employers may request it as part of background checks. |
This certificate ensures transparency and protects buyers and sellers in any vehicle-related transaction.
Who Can Apply for a Traffic Clearance Certificate?
- Any individual or company who owns a vehicle or holds a UAE driving license.
- The vehicle should be registered in the UAE and the license should be issued by UAE authorities.
This service is available for both UAE nationals and expatriates residing in the country.
Required Documents for Traffic Clearance Certificate in UAE
When applying for a traffic clearance certificate, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Emirates ID copy (front and back).
- Driving license copy (if applicable).
- Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya) copy (if applicable).
- In case of companies: Trade license copy and authorization letter.
- Proof of payment of all traffic fines (if already settled online).
It’s advisable to keep both soft and hard copies handy to streamline the process.
How to Apply for a Traffic Clearance Certificate in Dubai & UAE
Applying for a traffic clearance certificate is straightforward and can usually be completed online or at customer happiness centers. Here’s how:
Through Online Portals
Most emirates offer online services through their official websites:
- Dubai (RTA): Use the RTA website or smart app.
- Abu Dhabi Police: Visit the Abu Dhabi Police e-services.
- Sharjah Police: Check the Sharjah Police website.
Log in with your UAE Pass or register, navigate to the clearance certificate section, and follow the steps.
Through Customer Happiness Centers
Visit an RTA Customer Happiness Center or respective emirate’s traffic department with your documents. Fill out the application form and pay the fees.
Through Typing Centers
Many authorized typing centers across the UAE can process your application on your behalf.
Fees for Traffic Clearance Certificate
| Emirate | Approximate Fee (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai (RTA) | AED 50 – AED 100 | May vary by service channel |
| Abu Dhabi | AED 50 | As per Police portal |
| Sharjah | AED 50 – AED 100 | Typing center charges extra |
Tip: Always check the latest fee structure on the official websites as they are updated periodically.
How Long Does It Take?
- Online applications: Usually processed instantly if all fines are cleared.
- In-person applications: Can take 15-30 minutes depending on queue.
- In some cases where manual verification is needed (such as corporate fleet vehicles), it might take up to 2 business days.
Things to Remember Before Applying
- Ensure all your traffic fines are fully paid.
- Double-check there are no legal circulars or blocks against your vehicle or license.
- Keep your Emirates ID, driving license, and Mulkiya up to date.
- Save a soft copy of the clearance certificate for future reference.
Conclusion
A traffic clearance certificate is an essential document that showcases your clean driving record and ensures you have no pending traffic fines or circulars in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE. Whether you plan to sell your vehicle, export it, or simply want to keep your records transparent, obtaining this certificate is a simple yet crucial step.
