Eye Test for Driving License Dubai: Complete Guide 2025

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If you’re planning to obtain or renew your driving license in Dubai, passing an eye test is a mandatory step. This requirement is enforced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to ensure that all drivers meet the minimum vision standards for safe driving.

An eye test assesses your visual clarity, peripheral vision, and depth perception—key factors in preventing accidents on the road. Understanding the procedure, requirements, and costs associated with the eye test in Dubai can help streamline your application process.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about eye tests for driving licenses in Dubai. From the requirements and costs to the approved centers and submission process, this guide will walk you through each step to make your application smooth and hassle-free.

Why Is an Eye Test Mandatory for a Driving License in Dubai?

The eye test requirement for a driving license in Dubai is a crucial part of ensuring road safety. The RTA has made this test compulsory for all new applicants and those renewing their licenses.

The main purpose is to confirm that drivers have the necessary visual capabilities to navigate the roads safely and react promptly to changing conditions.

Vision problems such as poor eyesight, peripheral vision issues, or color blindness can significantly affect a driver’s ability to judge distances, read road signs, and identify hazards.

These impairments could lead to accidents, making it essential for drivers to meet minimum vision standards. For this reason, the RTA-approved eye test evaluates your:

Visual acuity is used to determine how clearly you can see objects.
Peripheral vision is used to assess your awareness of surroundings.
Color vision to ensure you can distinguish traffic signals.

This thorough assessment helps in identifying drivers who may need corrective measures, like glasses or contact lenses, to drive safely.

What Are the Requirements for the Eye Test in Dubai?

Before you head to an RTA-approved center for your eye test, it’s important to know the requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:

Emirates ID: This is mandatory for identification and verification.
Passport-sized photographs: Some centers may require recent photos.
Copy of your residence visa and passport: These may be needed for verification.
NOC: No Objection Certificate is required if you are under company sponsorship.

Additional Requirements:

Applicants should be at least 18 years old to apply for a light motor vehicle license.
For motorcycle licenses, the minimum age requirement is 17 years.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you must bring them along for the test.

These documents are essential for completing your eye test and proceeding with your driving license application.

Where Can You Take the Eye Test for a Driving License in Dubai?

The eye test for a driving license in Dubai can only be conducted at RTA-approved optical centers. These centers are equipped with certified optometrists who follow standardized procedures to evaluate your vision accurately. You can find these centers throughout Dubai, including major malls and shopping areas for convenience.

Popular Options Include:

Al Jaber Optical
Yateem Opticians
Barakat Optical
Grand Optics
Magrabi Optical
Max Vision

Booking Options:

Many centers allow online bookings for added convenience.
Walk-ins are also accepted, but booking ahead can reduce wait times.

List of RTA-Approved Eye Test Centres in Dubai:

Eye Test Centre	Location	Contact Number	Timings
Al Jaber Optical	Dubai Festival City Mall	04-351-0016	Daily: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Yateem Opticians	Jumeirah Beach Center	04-349-0909	Daily: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Barakat Optical	Dubai Festival City	04-232-5650	Daily: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Grand Optics	Mall of the Emirates	04-341-0350	10:00 am to 11:00 pm (Sun-Wed), 10:00 am to 12:00 am (Thu-Sat)
Magrabi Optical	Dubai Marina Mall	04-399-7570	10:00 am to 11:00 pm (Sun-Wed), 10:00 am to 12:00 am (Thu-Sat)
Max Vision	International City, Russia Cluster	04-456-4586	Daily: 9:00 am to 11:00 pm

Visiting any of these centers ensures your test results are automatically submitted to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) system, streamlining your application process.

How Much Does the Eye Test Cost in Dubai?

The cost of the eye test for a driving license in Dubai varies depending on the center you choose. Generally, the fees are set within a standard range as approved by the RTA.

Cost Breakdown:

Service Type	Cost Range (AED)	Availability
Standard Eye Test	130 – 150	RTA-approved centers
Mobile Eye Test Service	150 – 180	Home or office locations

Choosing a center close to you can also minimize travel costs and waiting time. Booking online may also allow you to check for discounts or special offers.

What Happens During the Eye Test?

Understanding what happens during the eye test can help you prepare better. The eye test typically includes the following procedures:

Visual Acuity Test: You’ll be asked to read letters or symbols from a distance to check how clearly you can see.
Peripheral Vision Test: This evaluates your ability to see objects outside your direct line of sight.
Color Vision Test: Ensures you can distinguish between different colors, which is crucial for understanding traffic lights and signals.

Additional Checks:

Depth perception assessment
Eye coordination tests
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you’ll be tested with them on to confirm their effectiveness.

The entire process is quick and usually completed within 15 to 20 minutes. Results are immediately updated in the RTA system for easy access during your license application.

How to Prepare for Your Eye Test?

Proper preparation for your eye test can increase your chances of passing with ease. Here are some effective tips to get ready:

Get Enough Rest: Ensure you sleep well the night before your test to avoid eye fatigue and strain.
Avoid Screen Time: Limit exposure to screens for at least a few hours before your appointment to prevent dryness and blurriness.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain optimal eye moisture, reducing dryness during the test.
Eat Vision-Boosting Foods: Include foods rich in Vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants like carrots, fish, and leafy greens.

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure they are updated to your current prescription. Outdated lenses can affect your performance during the test.

Additionally, bring the required documents, including your Emirates ID and passport-sized photos if needed. Arrive early to complete any necessary paperwork and settle in before your turn. Proper preparation ensures a smooth and successful eye test experience.

What If You Fail the Eye Test?

Failing the eye test for a driving license in Dubai isn’t the end of the road. If you do not meet the required vision standards, there are options to help you move forward.

In case of failure, you will be provided with a detailed report outlining the specific areas where your vision did not meet the RTA’s minimum requirements. This could be related to visual acuity, peripheral vision, or color perception. The optometrist may suggest corrective measures such as eyeglasses or contact lenses to improve your vision.

You are allowed to retake the eye test after addressing the vision concerns. If the issue is minor and can be corrected with glasses or lenses, you can schedule another test at an RTA-approved center. For more significant vision problems, a visit to an eye specialist may be necessary for further evaluation and treatment.

In some cases, if your vision cannot be corrected to meet the required standards, you may not be eligible for a driving license in Dubai. However, this is rare, and most vision issues are easily manageable with corrective eyewear or minor treatments.

How to Submit Your Eye Test Results to the RTA?

Once you successfully pass your eye test, the results are automatically sent to the RTA’s electronic system by the approved optical center. This seamless integration ensures there’s no need for manual submissions, reducing paperwork and processing time.

If, for any reason, the results are not uploaded, you may be required to submit them manually. Here’s how you can do it:

Online Submission: Visit the RTA portal and log in to your account. Navigate to the Driving License Services section. Upload the scanned copy of your eye test report if required.
Physical Submission: Visit an RTA service center near you. Bring a printed copy of your test results, your Emirates ID, and any other required documentation.
Important Notes: Double-check that your test was conducted at an RTA-approved center to avoid delays. The eye test results are typically valid for 3 months, so make sure to proceed with your application within that period.

Completing these steps correctly will ensure your application process for the driving license continues without interruptions.

Can You Renew Your Driving License Without an Eye Test?

No, it is not possible to renew your driving license in Dubai without completing an eye test. The RTA mandates that all drivers must pass a vision assessment to confirm that their eyesight meets the safety standards for driving. This applies to all categories of driving licenses, including light motor vehicles, motorcycles, and heavy vehicles.

The eye test is a part of the renewal application process to ensure that drivers maintain the necessary vision clarity over time. If your vision has deteriorated, you may be required to wear corrective lenses while driving. This requirement is strictly enforced to minimize risks on the road.

For those whose licenses have expired, it’s important to schedule an eye test at an RTA-approved center before beginning the renewal process. Attempting to renew without this assessment will result in your application being rejected.

Conclusion

An eye test for a driving license in Dubai is more than just a regulatory formality—it’s a critical step to ensure safety for all road users. The RTA’s stringent requirements help maintain high standards, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by vision impairments.

Understanding the steps involved, from finding an RTA-approved center to preparing for the test, can make the process seamless and stress-free.

Whether you’re applying for a new license or renewing an existing one, following the guidelines in this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the procedure with ease.

Prioritizing your eye health and adhering to RTA regulations not only guarantees a successful application but also contributes to safer roads in Dubai.