Traffic File Number (TFN) & Unified Traffic Number in UAE (2026): Meaning, Where to Find, Uses, and How to Create Your Traffic File

Managing anything to do with your UAE driving licence, vehicle registration, fines or black points requires one essential identifier: your Traffic File Number (TFN). This guide explains—clearly and practically—what a TFN is, where to find it, how to create or retrieve it, and how it differs from other numbers like Traffic Code Number (TCN) and Unified Traffic Number (UTN) in 2026.

What Is a Traffic File Number (TFN) in the UAE?

A Traffic File Number is the unique reference used by UAE traffic authorities to manage your driver and vehicle records.
Think of it as your master record for:

• issuing/renewing driving licences and learning permits,

• registering/renewing your vehicle (Mulkiya),

• viewing and settling fines and black points, and

• processing transfers, exports, number-plate services, etc.

In Dubai, your traffic records are handled by the RTA (Roads & Transport Authority); in other emirates, by the relevant Police/Traffic departments. The TFN format may vary by emirate and document type—so don’t focus on the number of digits; focus on where to find it and how to use it.

TFN vs. Traffic Code Number (TCN) vs. Unified Traffic Number (UTN): What’s the Difference?

• TFN (Traffic File Number): The broader umbrella identifier tied to your traffic dossier—used for driver/vehicle services, fines and history.

• TCN (Traffic Code Number): Often used interchangeably with TFN by some emirates/systems; it appears on vehicle registration cards and sometimes in portals for quick lookups.

• UTN (Unified Traffic Number): In traffic contexts, this can appear in some emirate systems as a unifier for traffic services. Do not confuse this with the “UID/Unified Number” used for immigration/visa matters, which is managed by ICP and appears on visas/emirates ID applications.

Bottom line: For traffic services (licence, vehicle, fines), you’ll use the TFN/TCN shown on your licence/registration or the number retrieved via official portals. For visa services, you’ll use the UID/Unified Number (immigration)—a different system altogether.

Why Your TFN Matters: Key Uses in 2026

License & Learning Permit Services

• Open a traffic file to start a learning permit.

• Book RTA theory/road tests and track results.

• Issue, renew or replace your UAE driving licence.

Vehicle Registration & Renewal

• Register/renew vehicles (Mulkiya) and update insurance.

• Assign or change number plates, manage inspections, export/sell, or transfer ownership.

Fines, Black Points & Clearance

• Check and pay fines, track black points, and print clearances for transfers or exports.

• Receive notifications for outstanding violations and settlement status.

Insurance, Vehicle Export/Transfer & Sale

• Many insurance and dealership processes reference your TFN to sync records.

• Required for export permits and inter-emirate transfers.

Where to Find Your TFN/TCN on Official Documents

Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya)

• Check the front of the card for entries like “Traffic File No.”, “TC No.”, or “Traffic Code”—this is commonly your lookup key for vehicle services.

• You will also see Plate No., Emirate of registration, and other vehicle details.

UAE Driving Licence Card

• On many UAE licences, your Traffic File No. appears alongside licence data.

• Don’t confuse it with the licence number or the issuing authority code printed elsewhere on the card.

RTA/MOI/Police Apps & Portals

• Dubai (RTA): Log in with your Emirates ID/mobile and fetch your Traffic File details.

• Abu Dhabi/Sharjah/Other Emirates: Use the relevant Police/MOI portal to retrieve traffic records using your ID/licence/plate.

How to Create or Retrieve a Traffic File in Dubai (RTA)

Create a New Traffic File

1. Eligibility: You must be 18+ for light vehicle licensing; check RTA age rules for other categories.

2. Account: Set up/login to your RTA account (website or app).

3. Start Traffic File Service: Choose “Open Traffic File / Learner’s Permit” and enter your details accurately.

4. Upload Documents: Passport, visa/Emirates ID, photos, and any NOC if required.

5. Pay Fees: Complete payment. Your traffic file is generated and linked to your identity for all future services.

Recover/Locate an Existing TFN

• Use your licence number/Emirates ID in RTA or your emirate’s police portal to pull up the record.

• If you still can’t find it, visit an RTA/traffic service center with original documents for assistance.

Documents Typically Required to Open a Traffic File

• Passport (original + copy) and valid UAE residency/visa

• Emirates ID (original + copy) or application receipt if newly issued

• Recent photos (as per specs)

• Eye test result from an approved center (for licence services)

• NOC from sponsor/company if required by your category

• Proof of address or tenancy/utility (occasionally requested)

Requirements can vary by emirate and service type—always double-check the latest list on the official portal before you visit.

How to Check Fines & Black Points Using Your TFN

1. Open the RTA Dubai app/website (or your emirate’s police portal).

2. Navigate to “Fines” / “Violations”.

3. Search by Traffic File No., Licence No., Plate No. or Emirates ID.

4. Review violations, black points, photos (if available), and pay securely online.

5. Save/print the payment receipt or clearance letter for future transfers/exports.

Tip: Some emirates periodically run promotional fine-reductions campaigns; these are not guaranteed and not permanent. Always rely on the rate shown at checkout.

Common Issues & Fixes

• “Number not found”: Try an alternate key (licence/plate/Emirates ID) or check another emirate’s portal if the car/licence was issued there.

• Name mismatch: Update your Emirates ID data and RTA/Police profile so both match.

• Old vehicle not showing: It may be archived after transfer/export—visit a service center for a historical extract.

• Multiple files (moved emirates): Ask the counter to merge or map records, if supported.

Myths & Mistakes to Avoid

• Myth: “TFN must be X digits.” Fact: Formats vary; use what’s printed on your official card/portal.

• Myth: “UTN = Visa UID.” Fact: Traffic UTN (if shown) is not your immigration UID.

• Myth: “All fines get 50% off if I pay early.” Fact: Discounts are campaign-based, emirate-specific, and time-limited—not universal.

• Myth: “Operating a business licence relates to traffic file.” Fact: Business licences are separate (DED/free zone). Your traffic file is only for driver/vehicle services.

Related to UAE Visas: Don’t Confuse UID with TFN

For UAE visas, you will use the UID/Unified Number (immigration identifier) shown on your visa/Emirates ID application—not your TFN. If you need help with Dubai visit visas, status tracking, or UID guidance, see the links below.

Conclusion & Quick Links

Your Traffic File Number is the gateway to all UAE driving and vehicle services—licensing, registration, fines, black points, transfers and more. Know where to find it, keep your records updated, and manage everything online through RTA/Police portals for a faster, paperless experience.

Quick actions:

• Open/Find Traffic File → RTA/your emirate’s Police portal

• Check & Pay Fines → Fines/Violations services by TFN/plate/licence

• Renew Vehicle/Licence → Online renewal with valid insurance/eye test

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