UAE Traffic File Number (2025 Guide)

Everything You Need to Know About the UAE Traffic File Number (2025 Guide)

Introduction: The Silent Hero Behind the Wheel

If you have ever attempted to get a vehicle registered, obtain a driving license, or settle a traffic fine in the UAE, you may have encountered something referred to as a Traffic File Number. It’s one of those things that appears on official websites, SMS messages, or government mobile apps yet the majority of people do not have complete knowledge of what it is or why it is essential.

Here’s a situation you can identify with: your Traffic File Number can be considered your “driving identity card” in the UAE. Whether you’re an incoming expat preparing for your maiden driving test or an oldie whose time has not forgotten but wishes to have your registration renewed, this number haunts you like a shadow—silent but important.

In this guide, I will demystify all you need to know regarding the UAE Traffic File Number in simple, easy-to-understand language. No lawyer speaks, no more complicated stuff than necessary just down-to-earth, real-world information you can put to use.

Traffic File Number?

The Short Answer

Traffic File Number (TFN) is an 8 digit special number supplied to all creatures and set up that deal with the UAE traffic system. It’s released by the traffic department of the Emirate (such as Abu Dhabi Police, Dubai RTA, Sharjah Police, etc.) and is required for nearly all driving and car dealings.

The Slightly Longer Answer

When you first register a vehicle or apply for a driving license in the UAE, the emirate opens a “traffic file” for you. This file contains your personal information, license status, registered vehicles, as well as any traffic offense. This file is assigned this Traffic File Number, which also becomes your permanent ID in the traffic system. 

Do You Get Your Traffic File Number?

You may already possess a Traffic File Number and not know it.  

• On your driving license (generally at the bottom or rear)
• On your vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
• On traffic fine SMS or email notifications
• On online platforms such as Abu Dhabi Police app, Dubai Drive, or Ministry of Interior (MOI) website

If you’ve lost it, don’t panic. Towards the end of the article, I’ll demonstrate how to get it back step-by-step.

Why Is the Traffic File Number So Important?

You’d be surprised at how many things this one number depends on. Here’s what your TFN is for:

1. Obtaining a Driving License

When you register with a driving school in the UAE, the school registers you with the traffic department, opening your traffic file.

2. Vehicle Registration & Renewal

Whether you’re picking up a new vehicle or reopening your domestic, the system admit you via your TFN.

3. Monitoring Traffic Fines

Need to know how many black points you’ve accumulated? Or view a surprise speeding fine? Your TFN is the answer.

4. Vehicle Transfer or Sale

When conveying a vehicle’s dominion, your traffic file will need to be renovated suitably .

5. Car Insurance & Accident Claims

Insurance companies usually cross-check with the TFN for your driving record and accident history.

How to Check Your UAE Traffic File Number

It’s now easier than ever to check your TFN, thanks to digitization in the UAE’s transport and law enforcement systems. Here’s how to do it according to your emirate:

 Abu Dhabi Residents

• Go to Abu Dhabi Police website
• Log in using your UAE Pass
• Go to “Traffic Profile”
• Your Traffic File Number will be shown under personal information

 Dubai Residents

• Open the RTA Dubai website
• Click on “Driver and Car Owner Services”
• Select “View Traffic File”
• Login using UAE Pass or Emirates ID
• Your TFN will be displayed on the dashboard

 Sharjah and Other Emirates

• Utilize the Ministry of Interior (MOI) app
• Go to “Traffic Services”
• Click on “Traffic Profile”
• Input Emirates ID or vehicle information to view your TFN

Documents Needed

• Emirates ID (original + copy)
• Passport with visa page (residence visa)
• Passport photos (typically 2–4)
• Eye test report (taken at an approved optical center)
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor (if applicable)

Where to Apply

Dubai: RTA-approved driving schools (e.g., Emirates Driving Institute, Galadari)

Abu Dhabi: Emirates Driving Company

Sharjah & others: Traffic department offices or authorized schools

Fees

Roundabout 200 to 500 AED .  

Eye test and learning permit costs are separate

Once approved, you’ll be issued your Traffic File Number, and then you’re all set to proceed with theory classes or driving exams.

Real-Life Scenario: Ahmed’s Journey to Getting His License

Suppose Ahmed, an Egyptian expat who is 28 years old, goes to Dubai for employment. He desires to obtain his driving license.

• Registers at Emirates Driving Institute.
• Creates his TFN (suppose it is 12345678).
• Each test result, payment, and document now becomes linked to that number.
• Months down the line, when he’s finished and done with the last road test, the issued license has the same TFN.
• Years down the line, when he purchases a car, the same TFN facilitates registration of his vehicle.

Notice how everything fits so neatly?

What if You Have More than One TFN?

Occasionally individuals who relocate between emirates or change employers might inadvertently end up holding more than one traffic file number, leading to slowdowns or discrepancies in data.

Ramifications

• Duplicate fines or points not appearing
• Vehicle registration problems
• License renewal mistakes

 Solution:

Go to the worried traffic sector (or RTA Customer Happiness Center) and ask for the unify of traffic files. Present your Emirates ID and both TFNs, if available.

Frequently Asked UAE Traffic File Number Questions

Can I have a TFN opened without requesting a driving license?

Yes, when you’re purchasing and registering a vehicle in your name, a traffic file will be opened against you.

Strengths and Weaknesses of the Traffic File System

 Strengths

• Centralized and orderly record maintenance
• Simplified online services through TFN
• Tracking of violations and vehicle history easily accessible

Weaknesses

• Emirate-based systems can cause duplicates
• Confusion among new residents or expats
• Manual merging in certain situations

Practical Advice for Handling Your Traffic File

• Keep a screenshot of your TFN at all times
• Register your Emirates ID with traffic services such as RTA and MOI
• Monitor for fines periodically you don’t wish to be blindsided by penalties at renewal
• Do not open more than one file unless under extreme circumstances
• When moving to another emirates, ask for a file transfer or merge

Final Takeaway: Don’t Ignore the Number Behind the Wheel

The UAE’s traffic system is one of the most technologically advanced in the region—but getting to know how it operates can save you lots of time, money, and frustration. Your Traffic File Number is the unassuming backbone to all the driving-related tasks you will encounter here.

So whether you’re applying for your very first license or transferring ownership of a vehicle, knowing your TFN and being in charge of it places you squarely in the driver’s seat—pun entirely intended.