Driving a vehicle without a license in Dubai is against the law and comes with serious fines under the traffic laws and regulations of the Road and Transport Authority (RTA). This means that anyone wishing to drive safely in Dubai must first obtain a driver’s license. However, obtaining a Dubai driver’s license is not easy. Drivers must undergo a series of tests to qualify for the license. For many, this is a difficult process as the passing rate for the Dubai driving test is only 50%, and most individuals do not pass on their first attempt.
However, with the right preparation and confidence, it is not impossible. There are three RTA driving tests that assess a driver’s proficiency. To help pass these tests, there are driving centers that offer preparation for the driving tests.
This guide will provide details on how to prepare for the rigorous RTA driving license tests.
Eye Sight Test
In addition to passing the three driving tests, getting your eyesight checked is also part of the process. To determine your eligibility for a driving license, the first step is to pass an eye test at an RTA-approved optician’s center to ensure that it is safe for you to drive on the roads.
Theory Tests
The first step is to pass the theory tests, which cover safety, road signs, and traffic scenarios. Passing this test is challenging but achievable with the help of driving schools. Enroll in an RTA-approved driving center, prepare for the test, and take advantage of the RTA driving test app to familiarize yourself with test questions and attempt mock tests.
Practice is key, so practice diligently and attempt as many mock tests as possible before taking the actual theory test. The test consists of a minimum of 100 questions, and the passing percentage is 65%. It is also available in multiple choice questions in your preferred language.
Road Tests
Before taking the practical tests, enroll in a practical training center in Dubai. Courses are available based on the applicant’s proficiency level. Applicants with a valid driving license from another country may require fewer classes. Motorcyclists must register for 20 hours of training as first-timers and 10 hours with a valid license from another country. Car drivers without licenses must take 40 hours of training, while those with valid licenses are allowed 20 classes as per RTA requirements.
Passing the road test with the instructor is nerve-wracking. Many applicants experience fear and anxiety but can overcome it by following traffic rules, maintaining vehicle control, and handling tricky situations while remaining calm and confident. Motorcyclists are also required to wear appropriate safety equipment during the test.
Parking Tests
After the road driving test, the next step is the parking test, which requires applicants to park their vehicle in different ways. Driving schools conduct two parking tests: parallel parking and reverse parking test prior to the RTA driving checklist.
Parallel parking involves parking the vehicle alongside other parked vehicles, while reverse parking requires parking the back of the vehicle first without colliding with other vehicles. Parking the vehicle can be challenging and requires extensive practice. Therefore, enhance your parking skills and techniques in advance to increase your chances of passing the test.
Once applicants have passed the above tests, they can obtain a Dubai driving license. However, those who do not pass the driving tests on the first attempt are advised to take additional courses and training from RTA-approved driving schools and reapply for the driving tests after honing their driving skills.