What is the RTA theory test?
The RTA theory test is a computer-based knowledge exam administered by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). It confirms that a learner understands UAE traffic laws, road signs, and hazard perception before the practical road test.
Every applicant for a light motor vehicle licence takes the test after opening a traffic file, passing an eye test, and completing the mandatory theory lectures at an approved driving institute.
How many questions are in the RTA theory test?
The RTA theory test consists of 40 questions and lasts 30 minutes. The questions split into two sections:
| Section | Questions | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple-choice | 35 | Traffic laws, road signs, lane discipline, speed limits, and right-of-way (17 general road-safety and 18 vehicle-specific questions). |
| Hazard perception | 5 | Video clips of real Dubai driving scenarios. You identify the developing hazard and choose the safest response. |
There is no negative marking, so answer every question even when you are unsure.
What is the pass mark for the RTA theory test?
You pass the RTA theory test by answering at least 30 of the 40 questions correctly, a score of 75%.
Many mock-test apps quote a pass mark of 23 out of 35 (65%). That figure refers only to the multiple-choice section, not the full exam. On test day the screen shows all 40 questions, and your overall score must reach 30. The 5 hazard-perception videos carry heavy weight, so treat them as decisive.
How to book the RTA theory test
Booking the RTA theory test follows five steps, completed through an RTA-approved driving institute:
- Register at an RTA-approved driving institute and open your RTA traffic file.
- Pass the mandatory eye test at an RTA-approved optician.
- Complete the 8 mandatory RTA theory lectures, in a classroom or through your institute's e-learning portal.
- Book your theory-test slot through the RTA Dubai Drive app, the RTA website (rta.ae) with UAE Pass, or your driving institute.
- Attend the test centre with your Emirates ID on your scheduled date.
The 8 theory lectures are mandatory for every candidate who must take the test, regardless of age or foreign-licence history.
How much does the RTA theory test cost?
The RTA theory test costs AED 220 per attempt. The fee is set by the government and is the same at every driving institute.
| Item | Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Knowledge (theory) test | 200 |
| RTA Knowledge and Innovation fee | 20 |
| Total per attempt | 220 |
A re-test costs the same AED 220 for each attempt, and there is no limit on the number of attempts. Some institutes add a small AED 20 to 50 booking service fee.
Which languages is the RTA theory test available in?
The RTA theory test is offered in English, Arabic, and Urdu, with RTA voice translation available for additional languages on request.
Our free practice tests cover five languages: English, Arabic, Urdu, Hindi, and Bengali, so you can prepare in the language you read best.
What topics does the RTA theory test cover?
The RTA theory test covers six core topics. Study each one with our detailed guides:
Sample RTA theory test questions
These sample questions match the style and difficulty of the real RTA theory test. The correct answer and a short explanation follow each question.
1. One of the difficulties of driving is:
Answer: Predicting what other drivers will do.
Safe driving depends on anticipating the actions of other road users so you can react early to their mistakes.
2. Which is more important while driving?
Answer: Looking ahead for hazards.
Scanning the road ahead lets you spot hazards early and gives you time to slow down or change position safely.
3. Driving conditions on a road will be:
Answer: Worse in wet weather.
Wet roads reduce tyre grip and lengthen braking distance, so you must slow down and increase the gap to the vehicle in front.
4. When you approach a roundabout, you must give way to:
Answer: Traffic already on the roundabout.
In the UAE you drive on the right, so vehicles already on the roundabout approach from your left and have priority. Wait for a safe gap before you enter.
5. What should you do when the traffic signal changes from green to amber?
Answer: Stop if it is safe to do so.
Amber means stop unless you are so close that stopping could cause a collision. It is a signal to prepare to stop, not to speed up.
6. Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving in the UAE is:
Answer: Prohibited.
Holding a phone while driving is a traffic offence in the UAE that carries fines and black points. Only hands-free use is allowed.
How to pass the RTA theory test on your first attempt
Most learners lose marks on the hazard-perception videos and right-of-way questions. Focus your preparation there:
- Watch the 5 hazard-perception clips carefully and react to the developing hazard, not the obvious one.
- Learn right-of-way rules at roundabouts, junctions, and pedestrian crossings.
- Memorise UAE road signs and their meanings.
- Take timed practice tests until you score above 30 out of 40 consistently.
- Answer every question, because there is no negative marking.
RTA theory test FAQs
How many questions are in the RTA theory test?
The RTA theory test has 40 questions: 35 multiple-choice and 5 hazard-perception videos. You have 30 minutes to complete it.
What is the pass mark for the RTA theory test?
You must answer at least 30 of the 40 questions correctly, a score of 75%.
Is the pass mark 30 out of 40 or 23 out of 35?
The official pass mark is 30 out of 40. The 23 out of 35 figure refers only to the multiple-choice section and is not enough to pass the full exam.
How much does the RTA theory test cost?
The RTA theory test costs AED 220 per attempt, and a re-test costs the same AED 220.
How do I book the RTA theory test?
Open a traffic file at an approved driving institute, pass an eye test, complete the 8 theory lectures, then book through the RTA Dubai Drive app, the RTA website, or your institute.
Which languages is the RTA theory test available in?
The test is offered in English, Arabic, and Urdu, with RTA voice translation for other languages on request.
Is there negative marking in the RTA theory test?
No. There is no negative marking, so you should answer every question even if you are unsure.
Can I retake the RTA theory test if I fail?
Yes. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but you pay the AED 220 fee for each attempt.