More than a thousand people register for a driver license every day in Dubai and get to pass the final driving test road exam after a period of six to eight months on average.
Every year, around 130,000 driving licenses are issued in Dubai. The passing rate for candidates is between 40% to 50% on the first attempt in the country.
Driving licenses can be obtained after training from an authorized driving school in the UAE. If you have never driven before or have a driving license that is not on the approved list of 36 countries, then you must undergo training and pass a series of tests to obtain a license.
Documents required for a driving license in the UAE
- Passport and Emirates ID
- No objection letter from sponsor
- Eight photos
There are five authorized driving schools in the UAE: Al Ahli Driving School, Belhasa Driving School, Dubai Driving Center, Emirates Driving Institute and Galadari Driving School.
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Driving tests in the UAE
During the theory test, a total of 35 questions on road signals, hazards and guidelines on safe-driving will be asked to the candidates. A minimum of 23 correct answers is required to be eligible for the road test.
During the road test, you will be given just a few minutes to demonstrate your driving and anticipatory skills on the road. If you do not make any mistake during your driving time, you will officially pass the test and receive your driving license. Remember: There are two category of mistakes drivers make – minor mistakes and immediate fails. You are allowed up to 11 minor mistakes but no immediate fails.
“I passed my driving test in one attempt even though I made two minor mistakes. One of them was stopping with my wheel ON the stop line and the second was braking too hard,” says Robin, a 28 year old HR Manager.
Atif though was not so lucky. “At the outset itself, I made the mistake of driving in the wrong direction than the one in which the arrow on the road pointed. I was failed immediately.”
Tips for the D-Day
Physical condition: First of all, ensure a good night of rest before the driving test day to be fully focused on the road.
Clothing: Dress appropriately, to give a good impression to the examiner, but also to feel comfortable while driving. Be sure to wear closed shoes, and not slippers.
Driving position: Check doors, adjust your seat, mirrors and fasten your seat belt, before moving the car. Do not forget to direct others people sitting in the rear seat, to fasten their seat belt as well.
Communication: If you did not hear well what your examiner asked you to do, do not be shy to make him repeat. This is always preferable rather than doing a wrong maneuver.
Proper speed: Drive confidently at a good speed. You may fail the test if you were driving too slow as you become a hazard for other drivers on the road.
Breaking control: Do not apply either too hard or too soft brakes, as both are a reason for failing the test. Remember to always check the rear view mirror before braking. Try to ensure that your examiner notices you regularly check this mirror.
Making turns and lane changes: Do not forget to check blind spots while entering the road or at any point while driving. Do a proper over the shoulder check.
Confidence: Overall, confidence is the key to success. Maintain a fair level of confidence at all times but do not show over confidence as it can lead to major mistakes.
