Mastering the RTA Driving Test in the UAE: A Comprehensive Guide

Getting through the process to get a driver’s license in the UAE may be frightening, but it shouldn’t be. The RTA might be tough and thorough, but if you demonstrate responsibility, knowledge and proficiency on the road, you will be approved. For that to happen, you must understand the test’s expectations: not only to pass but to prepare accordingly. 

Here’s a comprehensive guide compiling all the information you may need to tackle this and come out as a registered, licensed driver in the UAE. 

The RTA written test

Before you get out on the road for your road test, you will have to pass the written, theoretical test. There are 35 questions and you need to answer 23 right, which equals to a 65% score. There is plenty of information out there to get you started on studying and preparing for it. 

To start off, driving schools: many offer comprehensive courses that cover all theory involved in driving necessary for the test. Relying on them for classes and material is a great resource to support your learning journey. 

The RTA has a Driving Test App you can download for mock tests and progress keeping. It starts with easier levels and moves you to challenging ones to ensure you’re familiar with the type of questions, the test format and the content itself. 

Once you have enough material, are attending classes and studying, you should practice as much as possible. The app allows you to take the mock tests as we mentioned, and most schools will also provide you with challenges to attest your knowledge. 

A resource many aren’t aware of is exploring the Fines Section in the RTA app or even website. Ensuring you are well-versed in fines and regulations will not only help you pass the written test but avoid any tickets in the future. 

Also you can read: 6 Unwritten Rules Of the Roads

The Dubai RTA Driving Road Test Checklist

After you pass the written test, you move on to the next stage: the road test, which should last not more than 20 minutes and will assess your driving skills. We came up with a handy checklist for you to prepare for it, before, during and after driving. 

Before starting the car

• Confirm all doors are closed

• Adjust your seat to best comfort

• Adjust all mirrors

• Put on seatbelt

• Check lights, horn and wipers

While driving

• Remember to check the mirrors before braking, signalling and changing lanes

• Change lanes swiftly, without hesitation when a gap is available

• Do not force your entry in-between cars

• Always do a head check before changing lanes

• Move steadily and confidently

• Don’t swerve or make sudden movements

• Do not pass other vehicles in restricted lanes

• Always signal your moves, never too early or too late

• Pay attention to not signal to the opposite direction

• Don’t break too suddenly or harshly on turns

• Don’t approach turns too fast

• When stopping the vehicle, pay attention to the stop line - the car must be before it, not on it

• Do not make unnecessary breaks while driving

• Put on the hand brake as always as needed

• Give way to pedestrians to cross the road

• Respect speed limits and road conditions

• If driving a manual car, don’t release the clutch too quickly, and change gears as smoothly as possible

• Always drive within one lane

• Keep a safe distance from the curb

• Never switch to neutral when moving

• Keep a safe distance from the car ahead of you

• Always maintain enough room when passing an object or another vehicle

• Check for blindspots when reversing

• When parking, complete it in four maneuvers

• Follow the correct lane to enter parking areas

• Don’t stop the car on layby lines

Final thoughts for Acing the RTA Driving Test

Personal Experience: A Triumph on the Road

The whole idea is: prepare, study and practice as much as possible up until your test dates. Try to keep yourself calm and composed, remember: it’s just driving, like you were practicing before.

Pay attention to the traffic rules and observe them diligently: this will help you be a good driver in your community, too. If you tend to get too nervous, you can try to schedule your road test on quieter days and times, such as early Saturday mornings, to face less cars on the roads. 

Remember that how you face the examiner also matters: be polite, confident and calm as much as possible, and focus on your goal. Once you have your driver’s license, invygo will be here to help you get the car you want, with the best possible conditions. 

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