Driving in the Philippines With a UAE License & LTO Conversion
You can drive in the Philippines with a valid UAE driving license for up to 90 days from the day you arrive. After that, or if you move there, you must convert it to a Philippine license at the Land Transportation Office (LTO). The UAE license shows your details in English, so it is accepted, and an International Driving Permit makes checkpoints and car rentals easier.
Can you drive in the Philippines with a UAE license?
A valid UAE license lets you drive in the Philippines for 90 days from your date of arrival, counted from your immigration entry stamp. Extending your visa does not reset the 90 days, only leaving and re-entering the country does. Carry your passport so you can show your entry date if asked.
Do you need an International Driving Permit?
An International Driving Permit is recommended rather than required. Your UAE license already shows your details in English, so it is accepted, but an IDP smooths checkpoints and car rentals, and some rental firms ask for it. Apply for the IDP in the UAE before you travel, since you cannot get a UAE permit once you are abroad. Read our guide on how to get an International Driving Permit.
Converting a UAE license to a Philippine license
If you stay longer than 90 days or move to the Philippines, you must convert your UAE license to a Philippine license at the LTO. Because the UAE drives on the right with left-hand-drive cars, the same as the Philippines, UAE license holders are usually exempt from the practical driving exam, unless their UAE license has expired.
Who can convert a foreign license?
To convert, you must:
- Be physically and mentally fit to drive, confirmed by a medical exam.
- Be able to read and write in English or Filipino.
- Hold a valid, unexpired UAE license with no unsettled traffic violations.
- Have a valid visa for your stay, plus an ACR I-Card if you are a temporary resident or a TIN if you are employed locally.
Documents you need to convert
Bring the originals and photocopies of:
- Your valid UAE driving license, with an official English translation only if it is not already in English.
- Your passport, including the visa page and your latest arrival stamp.
- A medical certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic.
- A completed Application for Driver's License from the LTO.
How to convert step by step
The conversion is done in person at an LTO licensing center:
- Register on the LTO online portal (LTMS) and book an appointment.
- Go to the LTO licensing center with your documents for pre-assessment.
- Take the medical exam, including an eye and colour-vision test, at an accredited clinic.
- Submit your documents and photocopies at the license window.
- Have your photo, signature, and fingerprints recorded.
- Pay the fees at the cashier.
- Collect your Philippine license, or have it mailed to you.
Cost, validity, and timing
The conversion costs around Php 1,300, covering the medical, application, conversion, and license fees, and the visit can take a few hours. The license is usually valid for up to five years, though it may be tied to your visa. Start the process before your 90 days run out, since it takes time, and use only official LTO counters rather than fixers. Confirm the current fees and requirements on the LTO portal, as they are updated from time to time.
Do you need a driving test?
No. A valid UAE license is converted without a practical exam, because the UAE and the Philippines both drive on the right. If your UAE license has expired, you must pass the theory and practical driving tests instead.
Travelling somewhere else with your UAE license? See our guide on driving in Georgia with a UAE license.