UAE Parents Ask Why 17 Year Olds Can't Start Driving Yet

   Photo:Reuters

The UAE Cabinet approved a rule that many families had been hoping for — allowing teenagers to start learning how to drive at 17. The move was seen as helpful for students and families, making it easier to prepare for adulthood.

But today, several months after the rule was passed, most 17-year-olds are still not able to register at driving schools. Parents across the UAE say they are confused and disappointed. They had expected their children to begin training by now, especially during the summer break.

What the Rule Says
In November 2023, the government made it official: teenagers can begin driving lessons at age 17. Once they turn 18 and pass the required tests, they would be eligible to receive a full driving license.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

This rule was expected to give students more time to learn safely and with less pressure. It also put the UAE on a similar track with countries like the US and UK, where young people often begin driving before 18.

What’s the Issue Now?
Even with the new law in place, many driving centers are still not registering 17-year-olds. Parents say that when they call or visit these schools, they are told to wait.

A mother in Abu Dhabi said,

“My son was excited to start driving lessons this summer after turning 17. But all the schools we contacted told us that they are not ready yet.”

A father from Dubai also shared his concern:

“If the rule is already approved, why are we being told to wait? There should be clear information from the government.”

What Driving Schools Are Saying
Several driving centers say they are still waiting for final orders from the traffic authorities. They explained that they need time to:

Update their computer systems

Get clear instructions from the authorities

Train their staff on the new process

Make sure the rule is followed in the same way in every emirate

A manager from a driving school in Sharjah said,

“We are ready to help, but we can’t move forward without the green light from the traffic department. Everything must be handled properly.”

Why Families Are Worried
Learning to drive is a big step for young people. Many students want to be ready for college or jobs after school, and starting early helps them prepare.

Allowing 17-year-olds to take lessons would:

Let teens learn slowly and safely

Lower stress when they turn 18

Help families plan ahead

Improve road safety through early training

But because the rule hasn’t been fully applied yet, these advantages are being missed.

What Needs to Be Done Now
Parents are not asking for anything new — they just want the rule that was already passed to be followed. They are asking for three things:

Clear Update: The Ministry of Interior or traffic departments should explain the delay.

System Fixes: Driving schools need proper updates and access to register 17-year-olds.

One Policy for All: The rule should be used in every emirate without differences.