A driving license is a requirement for drivers in Dubai, and getting your eye test from an RTA-approved (Road and Transport Authority) center is important in obtaining a new license or renewing an expired one. It’s a standard procedure that ensures every driver meets the necessary vision requirements to drive safely on the roads.
In this blog, we’ll outline key requirements for the RTA eye test, why it is necessary to obtain a driving license in Dubai, and test centers where you can get your eyes checked and receive a certificate.
Why is the Eye Test Necessary for a Driving License in Dubai?
Having a good vision is extremely important when driving. The more you can see things and people on the road, the better your chances of avoiding a road accident. Hence, you can guarantee your own safety and that of other commuters, including pedestrians. Here’s what the required eye test for a driving license ensures:
Safety: Poor eyesight can be dangerous to you and other road users. To ensure you’ve proper vision for strict adherence to road signs, traffic signals, or signals from other vehicles, you must take an eye test from RTA-approved eye test centers.
Early Detection: Some eye conditions like Glaucoma or Cataracts develop slowly and can be detrimental to one’s vision. Getting an eye test for driving done is one way to ensure early detection of any potentially fatal eye conditions, and also prevent further deterioration of your vision.
Advanced Tests: An eye test doesn’t only check the degree to which you can see things, but also assesses your peripheral vision (seeing objects outside your direct line of sight), depth perception, and color vision (ability to tell different colors apart clearly), all of which are crucial for navigating difficult road conditions and ensuring your safety as well as that of everyone else.
Requirements for Obtaining a Driving License in Dubai
Some strict requirements that must be met to obtain a license in Dubai include:
- Age: Motor vehicle licenses require a minimum age of 18 years, and 17 years for motorcycles.
- Required Documents: You need your Emirates Identity Card, some passport-size photographs, a copy of your residence visa, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if you have a sponsor (when required).
- Eye Test: A must complete to obtain a license, which is the focus of our blog.
- Practical and Written Tests: Individuals applying for licenses must take and pass a written theory test centered on road signs, driving rules, and safety protocols, as well as a practical driving test.
- Driving Classes: This isn’t mandatory but depending on your driving experience and nationality, you may be asked to take some driving lessons from any RTA-approved driving school.
You would require your Emirates ID to renew an expired license.
Eye Testing Procedure
The test assesses your ability to see things clearly(visual acuity) and objects not in your direct line of sight(peripheral vision), which are important for safe driving. You can get it done at any RTA-approved testing center. When you’re ready to take the test, just do a quick search for, ‘RTA eye test centers for a driving license near me.’
About the RTA Eye Test
The test requires you to read letters or symbols on a chart held at some distance to assess your visual acuity.
Peripheral vision tests assess your ability to see objects not in your direct line of sight
If you wear corrective eyewear like glasses or contact lenses, you will be tested with them on
Test Results
Once you complete the test, the result is automatically incorporated into the RTA system, making the application process easier and faster.
Top RTA-Approved Eye Testing Centers in Dubai
Now that we have explored the details of the RTA eye tests for obtaining a driving license in Dubai, let’s check out some of the best centers where you can get the tests done.
Magrabi Optical
Founded in 1927, Magrabi Optical is known to provide eye care services and conduct eye tests according to RTA guidelines.
They have nine outlets in Dubai where you can get your eye test done in under 30 minutes. There are also centers in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates.
The outlets in Dubai are located at Dubai Marina Mall, Mall of Emirates, Midriff City Center, Ibn Battuta Mall, and The Village Mall.
Barakat Optical
It’s one of the reputable centers in Dubai providing great eye care services. Barakat Opticals, an RTA-approved eye test center, provides accurate eye tests for driving license applicants.
Locations within Dubai where you can get an eye test for your driver’s license application include:
- Jumeriah Plaza, Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1
- Algeria Street, Uptown Mirdif
- The Pavilion, Jumeirah Park
- Dubai Outlet Mall
Other RTA-approved eye test centers for a driving license in Dubai:
- Grand Optics
- Al Jaber Optical
- Max Vision
- Yateem Opticians
Dubai’s Mobile Eye Testing Services
Besides traditional optical centers, Dubai provides a rather convenient and easy-to-use Mobile Eye Testing Service. This service is advantageous for individuals who are often busy, have mobility challenges, or prefer the convenience of office or home services.
Al Jaber Opticals also offers mobile eye testing services for residents of Dubai. Applicants can request the services via phone or online websites provided by the service providers.
RTA Eye Test Prices
The cost of eye tests depends on the centers chosen. But below is an estimation of the costs:
- Standard Tests: Between AED 100 to 150
- Mobile Eye Testing Service: AED 150 to AED 180
Getting a driving license in Dubai involves a series of tests to ensure that drivers are well-equipped to use the roads, and also have a good understanding of traffic regulations when you are driving your personal car and rent a car in Dubai. An eye test is a critical component of this process, as it directly affects road safety. Dubai has numerous RTA eye testing centers, including mobile testing centers, and you can easily get an eye test done whenever you want.
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