How to Check If a Used Car Has Been in an Accident: Dubai RTA Guide
Buying a used car in Dubai can be a smart financial decision. It gives you the chance to own a vehicle at a lower price compared to a brand-new one. However, it’s very important to make sure that the car you’re buying is in good condition and has not been involved in any serious accidents.
An accident history can affect the car’s safety, performance, resale value, and insurance premiums. Fortunately, in Dubai, there are several reliable ways to check a car’s accident history.
1. Get the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Before you do anything else, you need to obtain the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or Chassis Number of the car. This is a unique 17-digit code used to track a car’s history.
You can find the VIN:
- On the dashboard (driver’s side)
- Inside the driver’s side door frame
- Under the hood
- On the car’s registration card (Mulkiya)
Make sure the VIN is the same in all locations. If there are differences, it may be a sign that the car has been tampered with.
2. Use the RTA Technical Vehicle Status Certificate
The RTA provides an official service called the Technical Vehicle Status Certificate. This certificate includes important information such as:
- Accident history (if any)
- Previous insurance claims
- Service and inspection records
How to apply:
- Visit the official RTA website or use the RTA Dubai app.
- Go to the “Technical Vehicle Status Certificate” section.
- Enter the VIN and other required information.
- Pay the fee (currently around AED 120).
- Download the certificate with full vehicle details.
This method is highly reliable and recommended for any vehicle registered in Dubai.
3. Check via Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG)
If the vehicle is registered outside of Dubai (in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, etc.), you can use the Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG) portal.
Steps:
- Visit evg.ae.
- Select “Traffic Accidents” service.
- Enter the VIN.
- The portal will show records of any past accidents, including dates and basic details.
The EVG platform is linked to the Ministry of Interior and is useful for vehicles registered in other emirates of the UAE.
4. Check Through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) Portal
Another method is to use the official portal of the Ministry of Interior (MOI), which also keeps records of vehicle accidents and fines.
How to check:
- Go to moi.gov.ae.
- Choose “Traffic and Licensing” services.
- Click on “Accident Inquiry”.
- Enter the VIN or plate number.
- The system will show any accident records, if available.
This platform works for vehicles registered across the UAE and is a good alternative if other tools are not accessible.
5. Contact Dubai Police for Accident Records
For Dubai-registered cars, you can also contact Dubai Police to check if a car was involved in any reported accidents.
Options:
- Call Dubai Police helpline 901
- Use the Dubai Police app or visit their official website.
- Provide the VIN or plate number and request accident history.
They can inform you whether the vehicle has any recorded incidents. However, detailed accident reports may not always be available unless you’re the vehicle owner.
6. Review the Vehicle’s Service and Maintenance History
Ask the seller for the car’s full service history. A well-maintained car will have:
- Regular service stamps
- Receipts for repairs or part replacements
- No unusual gaps in service records
Missing records or irregular service patterns may indicate hidden issues, including unreported accidents. Some authorized service centers can also share maintenance records if you provide the VIN.
7. Conduct a Physical Inspection
Even if you have checked online records, it is wise to physically inspect the car or hire a trusted mechanic to do so.
Here’s what to look for:
Exterior:
- Uneven gaps between body panels
- Different shades of paint
- Scratches, dents, or signs of repainting
Interior:
- Dashboard warning lights
- Unusual noises while driving
- Loose fittings or worn-out safety features
Mechanical:
- Check engine, brakes, suspension, and steering for performance
- Drive the car to feel if it handles properly
A physical inspection helps you confirm that the car is structurally sound and safe to drive.
8. Hire a Pre-Purchase Inspection Service
If you’re unsure, consider hiring a pre-purchase inspection service. Many garages and car dealerships in Dubai offer full vehicle inspection reports. These include:
- Engine and transmission testing
- Accident damage detection
- Undercarriage checks
- Road test evaluation
This service usually costs between AED 300 and AED 700, depending on the depth of the inspection. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Conclusion
Checking whether a used car in Dubai has been involved in an accident is very important before making a purchase. The RTA and other UAE authorities provide easy-to-use platforms to help you do this. Always ask for the VIN, use official portals like RTA, EVG, and MOI, and get the car checked by professionals.