The RTA Vehicle Export Certificate is one of the most crucial documents you will require if you export a car from the United Arab Emirates to another nation. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai issues this mandatory document. It ensures that the local traffic system has lawfully deregistered your vehicle.
To assist international shipping, re-registration, or sale, this document formally certifies that your car has been removed from the UAE registration database. The process guarantees complete compliance with UAE traffic laws, whether you're moving, selling your car overseas, or handling vehicle exports as a dealer.
Understanding how the RTA vehicle export certificate works can help many car owners who are browsing used cars for sale to export them internationally to avoid additional delays and complications during the shipping process. This article will guide you through the entire process of obtaining this certificate for a hassle-free and effortless experience. This guide makes obtaining an RTA Vehicle Export Certificate simple, which guarantees compliance and promotes global trade.
When Do You Need an Export Certificate?
When a car is permanently shipped from the United Arab Emirates, the RTA Vehicle Export Certificate is necessary. Here is the breakdown of when you need this document:
- When you sell your car to a buyer outside the United Arab Emirates, the vehicle must be deregistered locally before it is permanently exported.
- When moving abroad, taking their cars with them is a popular choice for UAE residents, and the export certificate guarantees easy re-registration in the new country.
- When car exporters and authorized dealers purchase and sell used cars abroad, they are required to get a certificate for each vehicle they export.
RTA Export Certificate vs. Ownership Transfer
It's crucial to understand the key differences between the RTA export certificate and ownership transfer. In the UAE, a certificate of ownership transfer is required when selling a vehicle locally. In contrast, an export certificate is necessary when the car is being shipped permanently outside the UAE. Here is a comparison table to better understand the major differences between the two documents:
| Feature | Export Certificate | Ownership Transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | For sending your car abroad or relocating outside the UAE. | For selling your car locally within the UAE. |
| RTA Status | The vehicle is deregistered and can’t be driven in the UAE. | The vehicle stays registered but under a new owner’s name. |
| Plates | Must be handed back to RTA. | Usually, stay with the car. |
| Insurance | Cancelled after export. | Transferred to the buyer. |
| Customs | Needed for shipping and clearance. | Not required for shipping and clearance. |
| Fee Range | Around AED 100–120. | Around AED 350–400. |
You can avoid any confusion by knowing the main difference between these documents, especially when managing multiple cars or exporting through an agent.
Documents Required to Get an RTA Vehicle Export Certificate
To apply for a Vehicle Export Certificate, you need to submit all the required documents to the RTA. If you gather these papers earlier, your application process will go more smoothly. The documents include:
- A copy of the identity card or Passport for the buyer to create a traffic code if the buyer does not already have one
- A letter from the company stating that it has no objection to exporting
- Emirates ID
- Handing over the plates
- Insurance for 96 hours if you want to get the export label
- In the event of the vehicle being expired and wishing to obtain export plates, the vehicle must be inspected
- Passport
- Redeem a mortgage or add a mortgage
- The traffic code of the carrier by freight, and if it does not have a traffic code, a copy of the commercial license must be brought
The RTA uses the above documents to verify ownership, ensure the vehicle meets all the export eligibility standards, and that no fines are still pending.
The Detailed Process to Apply for a Vehicle Export Certificate
There is a simple process to apply for the vehicle export certificate, which can be performed both online and in person. Below is a detailed breakdown of each step of the process:
- Visit an RTA Customer Happiness Center or apply online through the official RTA website or the Dubai Drive App.
- Submit the required documents — Emirates ID, Mulkiya, and inspection report (if applicable).
- Clear all outstanding dues, including Salik charges, traffic fines, or vehicle loans. The system won’t process your request if there are any pending payments.
- Return your number plates to the RTA center. Once surrendered, your car can no longer be driven on UAE roads.
- Pay the required fees at the counter or via the online portal.
- Receive your RTA Vehicle Export Certificate, either digitally or as a printed copy. The RTA system will automatically update your vehicle’s registration status to “Exported.”
Online applications can be finalized in a single working day. When all the documentation is in order, the process normally takes even less than an hour. Delivery of the physical certificate can take up to two working days.
Total Fees and Validity
The fees for the process are relatively low. Depending on the type of vehicle and the service channel utilized, the RTA's standard fee usually varies from AED 100 to AED 120.
| Vehicle Type | Export Certificate Fee |
|---|---|
| Light vehicle, i.e., private car | AED 100 |
| Vehicle weighing between 3 – 12 tonnes | AED 100 |
| Vehicle exceeding 12 tonnes | AED 100 |
| Light mechanical equipment | AED 100 |
| Heavy mechanical equipment | AED 100 |
| Bus with a seating capacity of 14 – 26 passengers | AED 50 |
| Bus with a seating capacity of over 26 passengers | AED 100 |
| Motorcycle | AED 100 |
| Export number plates (if required) | AED 60 – 70 (depending on vehicle type and plate design) |
Additional Charges: (Knowledge and Innovation Fee): AED 20
Validity of the Certificate: After being issued, the RTA Vehicle Export Certificate is valid for “30 days”. The car has to be shipped or exported from the UAE during this time. If the vehicle is not exported during the validity period, the certificate will automatically expire, and you will have to reapply for a new one.
Note: The information is correct at the time of publication, but it may vary with time.
Important Conditions and Notes
There are certain RTA conditions that you must meet to apply for a vehicle export certificate. These conditions include the following:
- The customer must be present personally or has be represented legally.
- All the due traffic fines must be paid before getting the service.
- Vehicle plates must be submitted to the RTA to avail the service.
- Once you use the certificate, must return the plates immediately to the Roads and Transport Authority and the vehicledo not drivee the vehicle.
- A traffic file has to be opened for the customer if there is no file for him in Dubai.
- All traffic laws and penalties regarding fines are imposed on the Export Plates.
Meeting all the above requirements is necessary to ensure that your export process stays legal and easy.
How to Apply for an RTA Vehicle Export Certificate?
The RTA has several convenient ways to apply for the vehicle export certificate. The following are the most common ways:
1. RTA Centres for Customer Happiness
You can simply visit any RTA centre in Dubai to apply in person and get your application processed. This is the best way if you need any help or are shipping more than one car.
2. Vehicle Testing Centres
Tasjeel, Shamil, Wasel, and Mumayaz are some of the RTA-approved centres that can issue vehicle export certificates. Many also provide car inspection and deregistration services on the spot.
3. Online Application (RTA website or the Dubai Drive app)
The RTA website or the Dubai Drive App is the fastest way to get an export certificate for private car owners. You can send in documents, pay fees online, and get your certificate by email, usually within one business day.
Exporting Vehicles Through a Dealer or Shipping Company
If you hire a dealer or shipping company, they will handle the whole procedure for you. Authorised dealers can manage all the paperwork, pay the fees, and submit the documents using their RTA business accounts. Therefore, it saves time, especially if you're shipping more than one car.
Working with authorised export agents has several benefits, including easier document handling, assistance with customs clearance and shipping, and guaranteed compliance with UAE export laws.
After the issuance of the RTA Export Certificate, the car will be taken to a customs checkpoint for inspection, clearance, and shipment to its destination.
Conclusion
The RTA Vehicle Export Certificate is required for anyone exporting a car from Dubai or any other location in the UAE. In addition to officially de-registering your vehicle and facilitating customs clearance for international shipping, it guarantees compliance with RTA rules and regulations. The process is made quicker, affordable, and easier if all the dues are paid and documents are submitted in advance.
Getting an export certificate ensures that your vehicle departs the United Arab Emirates lawfully and arrives ready for international re-registration. The certificate is required whether you're a dealer managing exports or a person moving overseas. Before applying, check the official RTA website or a nearby Customer Happiness Centre to ensure all the information is up-to-date.
Disclaimer: All information, including pricing, vehicle details, and legal requirements, is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change due to market conditions or policy updates. While First Choice Cars makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, we hold no responsibility for any errors, omissions, or outdated content. We recommend contacting our team directly to confirm the latest details before making any decisions.
