Ever needed to pay a fine, renew your license, or register a car in the UAE, only to realize you don’t know your Traffic File Number? You’re not alone. This small figure is very significant in the driving and car system in the UAE. In this guide, I will explain precisely how and where you may find your UAE Traffic File Number, be it on an app, by dialing customer support, or by searching through your Mulkiya card.
I am Ali Al-Mansoor, and I have helped many of my clients who went through the whole process. The first time I encountered this number was when I migrated to the UAE and tried to register a car, but could not do that because there was a barrier in my way.
Here in this blog, I will tell you all that you must know:
- What the UAE Traffic File Number is?
- How to Find Your UAE Traffic File Number?
- Why Do You Need a Traffic File Number?
What is a Traffic File Number in Dubai?
Traffic File Number represents a personal identification number of each person interacting with the traffic and licensing system of the UAE. When you apply with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai (or the transport authority of your emirate), they give it to you.
- Apply for a driving license
- Register a new or used vehicle
- Enroll in driving school
- Or use any vehicle-related government service
This digit connects all your traffic-related documents (fines, black points) with the licensing address and car registration and includes them on a single profile. It is your electronic identity at the RTA system.
What It Looks Like
Your Traffic File Number is commonly 5 to 9 digits, and this number has absolutely nothing to do with your:
- Emirates ID number
- Driving license number
- Vehicle plate number
It is frequently found in official records in such terms as:
- Traffic File No.
- File Number
- Or listed on your Mulkiya (Vehicle Registration Card)
How to Find Your UAE Traffic File Number?
1. Check Your Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya)
In case you have ever owned a car in the UAE, you should have a Vehicle Registration Card, also referred to as Mulkiya.
Where to Look
- On the front side of the card
- Under the title Traffic File No.
- It is normally printed beside your own details of personal information.
2. Visit the RTA Website or App
RTA website and Dubai Drive app are swamped with tools and services, such as the possibility to retrieve your traffic file.
Here’s how to do it step-by-step
- Go to the RTA website.
- Tap on the driver and car owner services.
- Select the option of Enquire About Traffic File Number or any licensing-related service.
- Log in using:
- Emirates ID
- Vehicle Plate Number
- Driving License Number
- Your profile/ dashboard will show you a Traffic File Number.
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3. Call the RTA Customer Service
When you are unsure, you can simply call them.
I was once experiencing a mild panic attack when I could not locate my traffic file number in renewing the insurance cover. I phoned the customer care of RTA, and they resolved it within five minutes.
Here’s how to do it
- Call 800 9090 (within the UAE)
- Choose the language and service choice
- Provide them with your Emirates ID or license number
- The correct number of your file will be read out after verification
Why Do You Need a Traffic File Number?
In the UAE, your Traffic File Number is your golden ticket to everything driving-related. Without it, you can’t move forward with even the most basic services, and I learned that the hard way.
It’s Your Official Driver Profile
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) maintains a Traffic File Number through which it observes and stores all data pertinent to you, including that of the driver. Whenever you:
- Register a car
- Take a driving test
- Get a license
- Pay a traffic fine
- Renew your registration
It’s Required for All Major Transactions
It is needed to access and finish most of the driving services. This is what your file number will be useful for:
Vehicle Registration & Renewal
Thinking of bringing a new used car to be registered? You will require your Traffic File Number to:
- Register the vehicle in your name
- Renew your registration
- Car vehicle test at Tasjeel / Wasel
- Pay traffic, car-related fines, and Salik
Driving License Services
A Traffic File Number is compulsory whether you are a first-time driver or you have been working as an expatriate in this country and you are renewing your license. You will have to use it to:
- Apply to get a learner’s permit
- Quiz Prologue and demonstration on the road
- Get your final license issued
- Renew an expired
Paying Traffic Fines
The system will also require the Traffic File Number before you can pay it online or using the RTA app. It recalls all of your fines and gives you an opportunity to pay them only when the number is right.
FAQs
What is a Traffic File Number?
It is an RTA unique number that relates to your driving license, car registry, your fines, and so on.
Where can I find it?
Examine your Mulkiya card, RTA app, Dubai Drive app, or you can dial 800 9090.
Is it the same as my Emirates ID?
No, that is another number post by the traffic authority.
Can I get it online?
Yes, through the RTA site or the Dubai Drive app with your Emirates ID or plate number.
Can I have more than one?
Yes, provided that you lived in several emirates. Go to RTA to consolidate them.
Read Also: Umrah Visa from UK: 2025 Cost, Packages & Process
Final Words
And in case you currently live in the UAE and you happen to be a new expat or an expat who has lived in the UAE for several years, the knowledge of your Traffic File Number is not only a convenience, but it is essentially a necessity. The payment of fines and renewal of your car registration, up to the booking of the test along the road, and getting the services of the RTA, all this can be run with just one number.
It was a seemingly insignificant detail, but it happened to be a great tip of the trade in being compliant and preventing being overdue.
