Driving in the UAE comes with great responsibility! Not just for your safety, but for others on the road as well. With some of the most disciplined traffic regulations in the region, the UAE authorities ensure that every driver follows the rules strictly. However, it’s easy to miss a fine or two amid busy schedules, which can later lead to penalties or even vehicle registration issues. When checking fines, it’s also wise to check accident history of a car in the UAE before buying it.
Regularly checking your car fines is a smart habit that helps you stay compliant, avoid unexpected fees, and maintain a clean driving record. This guide by Arabian Vox walks you through the easiest and most reliable ways to check your car fines in the UAE, helping you stay informed, stress-free, and always road-ready.
Understanding the Traffic Fine System in the UAE
The UAE’s traffic fine system is designed to promote safety, discipline, and accountability on the roads. Every violation! Whether it’s speeding, illegal parking, or neglecting vehicle maintenance, it is recorded under your vehicle registration and Emirates ID. These records are maintained by the respective traffic authorities of each Emirate, ensuring that all fines are accurately tracked and enforced.
While the system follows a unified federal framework, each Emirate, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, manages its own fines through dedicated portals and traffic departments. This means that depending on where your violation occurs, the process to check or pay your fine may slightly differ. Understanding this system helps drivers stay organized, avoid repeated offences, and maintain a clear driving record across all Emirates. Drivers must also remember to renew car registration in Dubai on time.
Fines for Different Levels of Violation
The UAE implements a structured fine system based on the severity of each traffic violation. Understanding these penalties helps drivers stay responsible and avoid unnecessary expenses or license black points. If you plan to drive temporarily, learn how to rent a car in Dubai.
Speeding Violations
Speeding remains one of the most common traffic offenses in the UAE. Fines vary depending on how much the driver exceeds the speed limit! Typically starting from AED 300 and reaching up to AED 3,000 or more. In cases of excessive speeding, additional penalties such as black points and temporary vehicle impoundment may apply. For emergencies, knowing how to jump-start a car is essential.
Tyre Maintenance Violations
Driving with worn-out or expired tyres poses a serious safety risk, especially in high temperatures. The UAE law strictly enforces tyre maintenance rules, with fines around AED 500, along with possible black points and impoundment of the vehicle to ensure public safety.
Parking Violations
Improper or illegal parking can disrupt traffic flow and create hazards. Fines for parking violations usually range between AED 200 and AED 1,000, depending on the type and location of the offense. Blocking emergency exits, parking in disabled zones, or obstructing traffic lanes often results in higher penalties. If you’re curious about modern car systems, read what a hybrid car is.
Driving Without a Valid License
Driving without a valid license is a serious offense in the UAE. It can lead to hefty fines, black points, and even vehicle confiscation. Authorities treat this violation as a major safety concern, as unlicensed drivers pose risks to both themselves and others on the road.
The Black Points System in the UAE
In addition to monetary fines, the UAE enforces a black points system to encourage responsible driving and reduce repeat offenses. Each traffic violation carries a certain number of black points, which are added to the driver’s record. Accumulating too many points can lead to serious consequences such as license suspension or vehicle impoundment.
Minor Violations
For minor traffic offenses, drivers may receive between 1 to 4 black points. These typically include actions like:
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Using a mobile phone while driving
- Making sudden lane changes without signaling
- Driving with weak or faulty headlights
While these may seem small, repeated minor violations can quickly add up and affect your driving history.
Major Violations
Major offenses carry 5 to 12 black points or more, along with higher fines and stricter penalties. Examples include:
- Exceeding the speed limit by more than 60 km/h
- Jumping a red signal
- Driving a vehicle without a number plate
- Using worn-out or expired tyres
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
License Suspension Thresholds
Once a driver accumulates 24 black points, their driving license may be suspended temporarily, and further penalties or rehabilitation courses may be required before reinstatement. Staying aware of your black points and following traffic laws can help you maintain a clean and safe driving record in the UAE.
Car Maintenance-Related Traffic Fines in the UAE
In the UAE, car maintenance is not just about keeping your vehicle in top shape — it’s also a matter of road safety and legal compliance. The authorities have set strict rules to ensure every vehicle meets safety standards, and neglecting routine maintenance can lead to heavy fines, black points, or even vehicle impoundment. Below are some common car maintenance-related traffic fines every driver in the UAE should be aware of:
Driving with Worn or Expired Tyres – AED 500 Fine, 4 Black Points
Tyres play a vital role in maintaining grip and stability on the road. Driving with worn, damaged, or expired tyres increases the risk of skidding or blowouts, especially during high-speed travel or hot weather conditions.
How to Avoid This Fine:
- Check tyre tread depth regularly (minimum 1.6 mm).
- Replace tyres every 3–5 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Avoid using retreaded or low-quality tyres that wear out quickly.
Driving with a Dead or Weak Battery – Risk of Improper Parking Fines (Up to AED 1,000)
A dead or weak battery can cause sudden breakdowns, forcing drivers to stop or park in restricted areas. This may lead to improper parking fines of up to AED 1,000.
How to Avoid This Fine:
- Test your battery health regularly, especially before long drives.
- Replace your car battery every 2–4 years depending on usage.
- Keep terminals clean and ensure proper charging to prevent sudden failures.
Driving with Faulty Headlights – AED 400 Fine
Faulty headlights reduce road visibility and increase accident risks, especially at night or during foggy weather. The UAE traffic laws impose an AED 400 fine for driving with malfunctioning headlights.
How to Avoid This Fine:
- Regularly inspect all lights, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators.
- Replace blown bulbs immediately.
- Clean light covers to ensure clear brightness.
Poorly Maintained Brakes – AED 500 Fine and Vehicle Impoundment
Brakes are among the most critical safety components in any car. Faulty or worn-out brakes can cause serious accidents and lead to an AED 500 fine with possible vehicle impoundment. Check more UAE driving info in the Automobile category.
How to Avoid This Fine:
- Get your brakes inspected every 10,000–20,000 km.
- Watch for warning signs like squeaking noises or reduced stopping power.
- Replace brake pads and fluids as recommended.
Vehicle Emitting Excessive Smoke – AED 1,000 Fine and 6 Black Points
Excessive exhaust smoke indicates poor engine maintenance and environmental non-compliance. Such vehicles attract an AED 1,000 fine and 6 black points under UAE law.
How to Avoid This Fine:
- Schedule regular engine servicing and tune-ups.
- Change oil and air filters to ensure smooth combustion.
- Avoid engine overloads and fix leaks immediately.
Ignoring Periodic Vehicle Inspection – Variable Fines in the UAE
Annual vehicle inspections are mandatory in the UAE to ensure roadworthiness. Ignoring or delaying these inspections can lead to variable fines, black points, and even suspension of registration.
How to Avoid This Fine:
- Follow the official inspection schedule by the RTA or relevant Emirate authority.
- Fix any mechanical or safety issues before inspection.
Keep your vehicle registration and documents up to date to avoid penalties.
How to Check Car Fines in the UAE
Checking car fines in the UAE has become simple and convenient, thanks to multiple online and offline options provided by various authorities. Whether you live in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or any other Emirate, you can easily verify your traffic fines in just a few minutes, Ensuring your vehicle records are always up to date and free from pending violations.
Online Methods
Most UAE residents prefer checking fines online because it’s fast, secure, and accessible anytime. Each Emirate has its own digital portal where drivers can view and pay their fines directly.
Here are the most common online platforms:
- Dubai: RTA Website (rta.ae) or the Dubai Police app/website.
- Abu Dhabi: TAMM portal (tamm.abudhabi) or Abu Dhabi Police website/app.
Sharjah and Northern Emirates: Use the Sharjah Police or MOI (Ministry of Interior) website and mobile app.
To check your fines online, you’ll typically need to provide one or more of the following:
- Vehicle plate number
- Vehicle license number
- Traffic file number
- Emirates ID (to verify your personal driving record)
Once entered, the system will display all outstanding fines, their descriptions, dates, and locations. You can then make payments directly using a debit or credit card.
Offline Methods
For those who prefer traditional methods, fines can also be checked in person at:
- RTA service centers (Dubai)
- Police headquarters or traffic departments across Emirates
- Customer happiness centers
When visiting in person, carry your Emirates ID, vehicle registration card, or license plate details to allow officials to retrieve your fine records.
Why Checking Regularly Matters
Regularly checking your fines helps you stay compliant with UAE traffic laws and avoid additional penalties such as:
- Late payment surcharges
- Black points accumulation
- Registration renewal delays
Keeping track of your traffic fines ensures peace of mind and helps maintain a clean driving record! Essential for both safety and legal compliance on UAE roads.
How to Check Car Fine in Dubai
If you’re driving in Dubai, keeping track of your traffic fines is essential to avoid penalties and registration delays. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) offers several convenient ways to check and pay fines, Both online and offline. Here’s how you can do it easily:
Visit the Official RTA Website
The most reliable way to check car fines in Dubai is through the official RTA website.
Steps to follow:
- Visit www.rta.ae.
- Click on “Check Fines” or “Traffic Fines” under the Services section.
- Enter one of the following details:
- Vehicle plate number
- Traffic file number
- Emirates ID
- The system will display all pending fines, along with violation details, dates, and payment options.
This method is fast, secure, and available 24/7.
Use the RTA Dubai Mobile App
The RTA Dubai App provides a simple and mobile-friendly way to track and pay fines anytime.
How to use it:
- Download the RTA Dubai App from the App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android).
- Log in using your RTA account or register a new one.
- Tap on “My Fines” to view detailed records, including violation location, date, and fine amount.
- You can also pay fines directly through the app using a debit or credit card.
Check via SMS Service
If you prefer a quick, no-internet method, use the RTA SMS service to check fines.
Steps:
- Open your phone’s messaging app.
- Type the message in this format: Fine [Traffic File Number] (example: Fine 1234567).
- Send it to 5959.
- You’ll receive a reply with details of any outstanding fines.
Contact RTA Customer Service
For personalized assistance or to clarify any fine-related issues, you can contact the RTA Customer Service.
- Hotline: 800 9090
- Working Hours: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Sunday to Saturday)
Provide your vehicle plate number, driving license, or Emirates ID to the representative to get accurate fine details or resolve any disputes.
How to Pay Traffic Fines in Dubai
Paying your traffic fines in Dubai is quick and hassle-free, with several online and offline options available through the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police. Whether you prefer digital platforms or visiting a service center in person, you can easily clear your fines to keep your vehicle records updated and avoid additional penalties.
Online Payment Options
1. RTA Website
You can pay fines directly on the official RTA website:
- Visit www.rta.ae.
- Go to “Traffic Fines Payment” under the Services section.
- Enter your vehicle plate number, traffic file number, or Emirates ID.
- Select the fines you wish to pay and complete the transaction using a credit or debit card.
2. Dubai Police Website
The Dubai Police portal also allows you to check and pay traffic fines online:
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- Visit www.dubaipolice.gov.ae.
- Click on “Traffic Services” → “Fines Inquiry and Payment.”
- Enter your vehicle or license details to view pending fines.
- Pay securely through your preferred payment method.
3. DubaiNow App
For mobile users, the DubaiNow App provides a convenient way to manage and pay fines on the go.
- Download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Log in with your UAE Pass.
- Go to the “Traffic Fines” section to check and pay violations instantly using debit or credit cards.
In-Person Payment at RTA Service Centers
If you prefer handling payments directly, you can visit any RTA service center, customer happiness center, or Dubai Police station.
Bring the following documents:
- Emirates ID
- Vehicle registration card
- Driving license
Payments can be made via cash, card, or e-dirham.
Discounts and Offers on Fine Payments
Dubai occasionally offers discounts or amnesty programs for drivers who maintain a clean record for a specific period. For example:
- Drivers may receive up to 50% off fines if no new violations occur within a set timeframe.
- Special offers are sometimes announced during UAE National Day or Ramadan.
Always check official RTA or Dubai Police announcements for the latest updates on fine reduction programs.
How to Check Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines Online
Residents and drivers in Abu Dhabi can easily check and pay their traffic fines online through multiple government platforms. The Abu Dhabi Police website, mobile app, and the TAMM portal all provide convenient, secure, and quick ways to manage traffic violations without visiting a physical service center.
Abu Dhabi Police Website
The Abu Dhabi Police website offers a user-friendly portal to check and settle traffic fines.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check Fines:
- Visit the official Abu Dhabi Police website.
- Navigate to the Traffic Services section under the main Services menu.
- Click on “Traffic Fines Inquiry and Payment.”
- Enter one of the following details:
- Traffic Code Number (TCN)
- Vehicle Plate Number
- Driver’s License Number
- Click on “Search” to view all fines linked to your details.
How to Pay (Online Payment Options):
- Review your list of fines and select the ones you wish to clear.
- Click on “Pay” to proceed to the secure payment gateway.
- Enter your credit or debit card information.
- Once the transaction is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation receipt for your records.
Abu Dhabi Police Mobile App
The Abu Dhabi Police mobile app allows you to check and pay fines directly from your smartphone.
How to Download and Use the App:
- Download the Abu Dhabi Police App from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
- Log in with your account or create one if you’re a new user.
- Tap on the “Traffic Services” or “Fines” section.
- Enter your vehicle or violation details to see a list of your traffic fines.
To Pay Fines:
- Select the fine(s) you wish to pay.
- Choose your preferred payment method (credit/debit card or online banking).
- Confirm the payment and save your digital receipt for reference.
This method is especially convenient for quick access and real-time fine updates.
Check Traffic Fines on the TAMM Website
The TAMM platform is another official government service that provides access to traffic fine inquiries and payments in Abu Dhabi.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Go to the TAMM website.
- Select “Drive and Transport” from the homepage menu.
- Click on “Traffic Fine Payment” under the list of services.
- Log in securely using your UAE Pass.
- Enter your Emirates ID or vehicle details when prompted.
- Allow access via the UAE Pass app on your mobile phone.
- View all fines linked to your driving license or registered vehicles.
How to Pay:
- Select the fines you want to clear.
- Click “Pay Now” and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Use your credit/debit card to complete the payment.
- You’ll receive an instant confirmation upon successful payment.
How to Check Traffic Fines on TAMM Mobile App
You can also manage your fines through the TAMM mobile app, offering the same convenient features as the website.
Steps:
- Download the TAMM App from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Log in using your UAE Pass.
- Open the “Drive and Transport” section.
- Select “Traffic Fine Payment.”
- View your fines associated with your vehicle or license.
How to Pay:
- Choose the fines you wish to pay.
- Complete the transaction using a credit or debit card.
- Save your confirmation message or receipt for proof of payment.
How to Check Traffic Fines in Sharjah and Other Emirates
Each Emirate in the UAE has its own dedicated platform for checking and paying traffic fines. While the process is similar across all Emirates, here’s how you can check fines specifically in Sharjah and other regions like Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain.
1. Sharjah Police Website
You can easily check and pay your traffic fines online through the Sharjah Police official website.
Steps to check fines:
- Visit the official Sharjah Police website.
- Go to the Traffic Services section.
- Click on Traffic Fines Inquiry and Payment.
- Enter your vehicle plate number, traffic code number, or Emirates ID.
- Click on Search to view all outstanding fines linked to your vehicle.
How to Pay:
Once your fines are displayed, select the ones you want to pay and complete the transaction using a credit or debit card. You will receive a payment confirmation receipt once the process is done.
2. Sharjah Police Mobile App
The Sharjah Police mobile app offers a fast and convenient way to manage traffic fines.
How to use it:
- Download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Log in using your UAE Pass or Emirates ID.
- Select Traffic Services, then go to Fines Inquiry.
- Enter your vehicle details to view any violations.
You can also pay directly through the app using your preferred online payment method.
3. Checking Fines in Other Emirates
For other Emirates such as Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain, the process is quite similar:
- Visit the official police website of the respective Emirate.
- Go to the Traffic Services or Fines Inquiry section.
- Enter your vehicle plate number, Emirates ID, or traffic file number.
- View your outstanding fines and proceed with payment online.
Each Emirate’s police portal also provides options to download official mobile apps for checking and paying fines on the go, making the process quick and convenient.
Tips to Avoid Traffic Fines in the UAE
Avoiding traffic fines in the UAE not only helps you save money but also ensures your safety and compliance with local laws. Here are some practical tips to help you stay fine-free on the road:
Keep Up with Regular Vehicle Maintenance
Ensure your car is in good working condition by performing regular maintenance checks. Faulty brakes, worn-out tyres, or dim headlights can lead to penalties and even vehicle impoundment. Regular servicing also helps prevent unexpected mechanical failures while driving.
Stay Updated on UAE Traffic Rules
Traffic regulations in the UAE are updated regularly to enhance road safety. Make sure to stay informed about the latest laws regarding speed limits, seatbelt use, phone usage, and lane discipline. You can follow updates from the RTA, Dubai Police, or Abu Dhabi Police official channels.
Use Apps for Fine Notifications and Payments
Install government-approved apps such as the RTA Dubai App, Dubai Police App, or Abu Dhabi Police App. These applications send instant notifications about new fines and allow you to pay them conveniently before penalties increase.
Renew Your Registration and Insurance on Time
Driving with expired vehicle registration or insurance is a serious violation in the UAE. Always check the expiry dates and renew them promptly to avoid fines, black points, or vehicle confiscation.
FAQs
How can I check my car fines in the UAE online?\
You can check your car fines through official platforms like the RTA website (Dubai), Abu Dhabi Police website, or the TAMM portal. You’ll just need your vehicle plate number or Emirates ID.
Is there a mobile app to check car fines in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Yes! Dubai residents can use the RTA Dubai App, while Abu Dhabi residents can check through the Abu Dhabi Police App or TAMM App for quick fine details and payments.
Can I pay all my traffic fines online in the UAE?
Absolutely. You can pay fines directly on the RTA, TAMM, or Abu Dhabi Police websites and apps using credit or debit cards. Many centers also offer payment kiosks.
What happens if I don’t pay my traffic fines in the UAE?
Unpaid fines can lead to vehicle registration suspension, additional penalties, or even travel restrictions. It’s best to clear your fines as soon as possible.
Do UAE traffic fines apply across all Emirates?
Yes, your fines are linked to your Emirates ID and vehicle registration, so violations in any Emirate (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.) will appear in your record.
