RTA Theory Test

About the exam

The RTA theory test, which the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) calls the Knowledge Test, is the first official test on the way to a Dubai driving licence. It is a computer-based test of road rules, signs and safe driving, taken at one of Dubai's licensed driving institutes, and you must pass it before going on to the yard (parking) test and the road test.

A pass does not give you a licence on its own; it unlocks the next stage of training and testing. After each pass you receive an email and SMS with a link to book the next test.

The surprise for many learners is that you cannot simply book the test: you must first open a file with a driving institute, hold a valid Learning Permit and attend the mandatory theory lectures, which are 8 hours for a car licence.

Who has to sit it

Anyone getting a Dubai light-vehicle (car) licence through the standard route takes the Knowledge Test, whether a citizen or a resident. You can open a traffic file from 17 years and 6 months, but the licence is only issued once you have passed all the tests and turned 18. Before booking you need a valid Emirates ID, a valid Learning Permit through a driving institute, an eye test at an approved centre, and the completed theory lectures. Some holders of foreign licences follow shorter routes; for example, golden residency holders with a valid foreign licence need no training and can take the theory and road tests on the same day.

What is on it

Getting and keeping a licence

The licensing process in Dubai, which foreign licences are recognised and how renewals work.

Managing risk

Speed, seat belts, alcohol and drugs, distraction, tiredness, bad weather and floods, vehicle maintenance and what to do after a crash.

Road user safety

Sharing the road with pedestrians, school buses and bus and taxi lanes.

Rules and road craft

Road signs and markings, priority at junctions, roundabouts, turning, lane changes and overtaking, freeways, interchanges and parking.

Violations, fines and black points

The main traffic offences and the fines and black points they carry, plus Salik tolls and paid parking.

The paper

• 40 questions; you pass with at least 30 correct answers (75%).
• Taken on computer at a licensed driving institute, not online.
• You choose the test language when you book.
• For an extra fee, an interpreter can join by online call and translate every question and answer option; book this at least 5 days before the test.
• The RTA's Light Motor Vehicle Handbook is the official study text for both the theory and practical tests.

How to book it

1. Open a traffic file and apply for a Learning Permit online or in the RTA Dubai app (with your Emirates ID, passport or UAE Pass), choosing a driving institute; the institute contacts you within 3 working days to agree a training package.
2. Take an eye test at an approved eye test centre and attend the mandatory theory lectures (8 hours for light vehicles). Latecomers are not let into lectures.
3. Book the Knowledge Test through the RTA website, the RTA Dubai app, the Dubai Now app, or the Mahboub chatbot on the website or WhatsApp, and pick the test language and any interpretation.
4. Arrive at the institute 30 minutes before your appointment with your Emirates ID. You can reschedule online or at the institute up to 24 hours before.
5. After a pass you receive a link to book your next test. If you miss your appointment, you must book again and pay the test fee again.
6. Keep your file active: if you take no official test within 6 months of your last appointment your file is suspended, and a Knowledge Test pass counts towards reactivating it only while it is no more than 2 years old.

Fees and dates

Fee

AED 220 (about EUR 55): Knowledge Test AED 200 plus AED 20 Knowledge and Innovation fee (source 1)

Remote interpretation

AED 420 extra (about EUR 105); book at least 5 days ahead (source 1)

Earlier appointment

AED 320 (about EUR 80) to move to an earlier date (source 1)

When

By appointment at licensed driving institutes once the theory lectures are done (source 1)

Missed test

Book a new appointment and pay the fee again (source 1)

Result validity

Counts for reactivating a suspended file if no more than 2 years old (source 2)

Fees and dates change: each is as its source stated it on 29 October 2026. Check it there before you book.

Questions people ask

How many questions are on the RTA theory test?

The RTA states that the Knowledge Test has 40 questions and that you need at least 30 correct answers to pass.

What is the pass mark?

At least 30 correct answers out of 40, which is 75%.

How much does the RTA theory test cost?

The RTA lists AED 200 for the Knowledge Test plus a AED 20 Knowledge and Innovation fee, AED 220 in total. Remote interpretation, an instant test or an earlier date cost extra, and so do the other fees for your learning permit, file, eye test, training and later tests.

Can I take the theory test in my own language?

You choose the language when you book. If your language is not on offer, you can book a remote interpreter, who translates each question and option over an online call, for an extra fee at least 5 days before the test.

Do I have to attend theory classes first?

Yes. You must complete the mandatory theory lectures at your driving institute before you can book the Knowledge Test: 8 hours for light vehicles.

What happens if I miss or fail the test?

If you miss it, you book a new appointment and pay the fee again. The RTA's service page does not set out a separate rule for retakes after a fail, so check with your institute; keep testing within 6 months, or your file is suspended.

Can I take the theory test online?

No. You book online or in an app, but the test itself is taken on computer at a licensed driving institute.

Sources

1. Apply for booking and changing a driving test appointment — RTA
2. Apply for or manage a driving licence — RTA
3. Light Motor Vehicle Handbook, 3rd edition — RTA

Checked against these sources on 29 October 2026.