10 Tips To Pass the UAE/Dubai Driving Test

It is something that puzzles both natives and expats in Dubai who want a driving license; how do you pass the Dubai driving RTA test? As simple as that question sounds, it is quite common considering the Dubai driving test is arguably one of the toughest driving tests in the world. In fact, most candidates pass the Dubai driving test after trying and failing multiple times, so much that they think there is a conspiracy. Regardless of the nightmare tales, there are still candidates who pass the Dubai driving test without disappointments. Yes, it can be done but only if you know what it takes to pass. So how do you go about it?

1. Practice, practice and practice- Never underestimate the Dubai road test! Sure, there are candidates with special cases that require them to sit for the road test directly without classes but keep in mind the Dubai driving experience is a whole different ballpark. You could have been a driver in your native country for years but if you don’t familiarize yourself with the UAE road rules and regulations, your chances of acing the driving test will be slim. The practicing classes can be long and tiresome, but definitely worth it at the end.

 

2. Be confident – Dubai road test examiners can flunk you due to lack of confidence. Not to mention, nervous drivers usually make a lot of silly mistakes. It’s okay to postpone the driving test if you think you’re not ready. However, if you’ve been practicing long enough but still nervous prior to the road test, try to take a deep breath and calm down. Reaffirm yourself that it’s just a simple test and it will be over in a few minutes. Remember, if you appear confident, the examiner will be more inclined to give you a pass.

 

3. Dress decently- It looks like something to be taken for granted but how you dress will leave an impression on the examiner. If you wear decent clothes and groom yourself to look sharp, the examiner will take you seriously. Nonetheless, avoid wearing sunglasses and don’t try too much to impress by wearing ridiculous outfits.

 

4. Obey the examiner- When the examiner tells you to do something, you should follow suit promptly without trying to oppose or argue. Regardless, you should use your common sense since there are times the examiner will give out instructions with an agenda to evaluate your judgment. For instance, the examiner can ask you to make a turn when there is clearly oncoming traffic. Of course, in such a situation, you should wait it out until the road is clear.

 

5. Remember the initial steps- The test begins even before you start the car. Once you sit on the driver’s seat, adjust the seat and mirrors. Afterward, wear the seatbelt and check if the other passengers have done the same. Don’t drive until all passengers have fastened their seatbelt. The handbrake and the gear should also be in the right position before you start the vehicle.

 

6. Drive within the speed limit- Make sure you know the speed limit when you’re out on the road to avoid getting marked by surprise. Listen to that voice in your head that says not too fast and not too slow, and you will be okay. Don’t forget to accelerate gradually when you enter the main road to match up to the speed limit.

 

7. Stay in control- How does the examiner check if you’re in control? Simple, the examiner will scrutinize how you apply the brakes and hold the steering wheel. If you consistently apply hard brakes and turn on the hazard lights when you spot nearby traffic sign or another vehicle ahead, it shows you’re not confident. The best way to assert control is to slow down smoothly until you come to a halt. What else? Use the 9 and 3 o’clock hand placement technique on the steering wheel.

 

8. Delay at the stop sign- Whenever you see a ‘STOP’ sign or a line, always halt at the ‘STOP’ sign or line for at least 3 seconds, even if there is no traffic. Anything less than 3 seconds is considered a fail. Of course, if there is traffic, you can stop longer than 3 seconds while waiting for the road to clear.

 

9. Know how to change lanes- You can bet the driving test will not be over until the examiner tells you to change lanes. How do you do it flawlessly? First, observe both the side and rear view mirrors. Don’t forget to turn your head a little bit to check the blind spots, and then activate the indicator. After everything is clear at all angles, switch the lanes while still accelerating within the speed limit. Turn off your indicator after switching lanes.

 

10. Avoid parking mistakes- Quite often, the examiner will ask candidates to park the car at the side. Don’t misinterpret and park it in front of a bus stop or entrance. Another commonly reported mistake is candidates who press the accelerator in neutral, usually after the test is over. Doing so will only result in an automatic failure.