UAE to introduce stricter driving test rules from 2027

Learner drivers in the United Arab Emirates could fail their practical driving test even after scoring 75% if they commit a serious safety-related error, Khaleej Times reported. The rules take effect on January 1, 2027, and apply to residents seeking a driving licence.

Why can you fail the UAE driving test with a 75% score?

A score of at least 75% is required to pass both the theory and practical driving tests, but meeting that threshold does not guarantee success. Under Article 68, certain dangerous mistakes can result in automatic failure regardless of the overall score.

Judicial counsellor Hesham Elrafei said the regulations distinguish between serious errors that can lead to immediate failure and less serious mistakes that result in deductions under the marking system.

The law does not prescribe a single, uniform marking system for every driving school across the UAE. Licensing authorities are responsible for determining the detailed assessment criteria.

Which mistakes can lead to automatic failure?

Dangerous errors include losing control of the vehicle and hitting a kerb or barrier. Disobeying traffic signs or signals and making hazardous mistakes while changing gears can also result in failure.

A candidate may also fail if the examiner has to intervene verbally or physically to prevent a dangerous situation.

However, the regulation does not explicitly state that the test must end immediately after such an incident. Nor does it specify how examiners must explain a failed result to candidates. These procedures are left to the relevant licensing authorities.

What happens if you fail the UAE driving test?

Under Article 69, applicants who fail the practical test will be assigned another test date by the relevant licensing authority.

The regulation does not prescribe a fixed waiting period before a retake or require candidates to complete additional driving lessons before trying again.

It also does not specify whether applicants must pay another test fee after failing. Such requirements depend on the procedures established by the relevant licensing authority.

Do the new rules apply to people already learning to drive?

Yes. The rules take effect on January 1, 2027, and do not provide an exemption for applicants who began driving lessons or booked their tests before that date.

Learners taking their tests from the implementation date will therefore be assessed under the new requirements, even if they started their training months earlier.