Getting a driving licence in Dubai involves multiple steps, and each stage comes with its own fees. Many first-time applicants are often surprised by extra charges that appear during training or testing. This guide gives you a complete and clear breakdown of RTA driving test fees, assessment charges, retest costs, and hidden expenses so you can plan your budget properly.
Overview Table
| Category | Average Cost (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RTA Theory Test | 200 – 350 | Includes test booking fee |
| RTA Yard Test | 250 – 400 | Smart yard charges included |
| RTA Road Test | 300 – 500 | Most expensive test stage |
| Retest Charges | 300 – 1000+ | Depends on test type & classes required |
| File Opening + Eye Test | 350 – 500 | Mandatory for all applicants |
| Hidden/Extra Costs | 200 – 1500 | Includes admin fees, late fees, rebooking |
RTA Driving Test Fees & Full Breakdown 2025
1. RTA Theory Test Fees
The theory test is the first major exam you face before attending on-road classes. The test cost includes:
- RTA test booking fee
- Knowledge test system charge
- File update charges (if required)
Cost Range: AED 200 – 350
You may also be charged for:
- Rescheduling fee (AED 50–100)
- Retest fees (AED 200–350)
2. RTA Yard Test Fees (Parking Test)
The smart yard test includes:
- Parallel parking
- Garage parking
- Hill test
- Emergency braking
- Angle parking
Cost Range: AED 250 – 400
Extra fees may include:
- Yard test training before retest (AED 150–300)
- Yard retest fee (AED 250–400)
3. RTA Road Test Fees
This is the final and most important test. Applicants often pay more for this stage due to:
- Practical assessment fee
- Road test examiner charges
Cost Range: AED 300 – 500
If you fail the road test:
- Mandatory extra driving classes (AED 120–170 per class)
- File update/admin fees (AED 100–200)
- Retest fee (AED 300–500)
Assessment Charges (Training Assessment Fees)
Before you are eligible for the final RTA test, driving schools conduct internal assessments such as:
- Highway assessment
- Yard assessment
- Final internal assessment
Expected Charges: AED 150 – 300 per assessment
Some schools may charge separately for:
- Simulator training
- Initial skill evaluation
- Vehicle safety demo session
Hidden Costs Applicants Should Expect
Most first-time learners are unaware of these additional expenses:
1. Learning Permit Renewal Fee
If your training takes longer than expected, you may need to renew:
- Permit renewal cost: AED 100 – 150
- Admin charges: AED 50 – 100
2. Extra Training Classes
Mandatory after failing any RTA exam.
- Cost per class: AED 120 – 170
- Night or weekend classes may cost more.
3. File Transfer Fees
If you change driving schools:
- Transfer fee: AED 200 – 500
4. Weekend / VIP Test Charges
Students choosing faster scheduling may pay:
- VIP test fee: AED 500 – 1000 extra
- Priority booking fee: AED 100 – 250
5. Knowledge File Admin Fees
Schools may add:
- Printing and admin charges (AED 50 – 100)
- SMS notification charges (AED 10 – 25)
Complete Fees Table: RTA Tests & Extra Costs
| Fee Type | Cost (AED) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Theory Test | 200–350 | Mandatory written test |
| Yard/Parking Test | 250–400 | Smart yard automated exam |
| Road Test | 300–500 | Final driving exam |
| Retest Charges | 300–1000+ | Depends on test & classes |
| Eye Test | 120–180 | Required by RTA |
| File Opening | 200–250 | Initial application |
| Permit Renewal | 100–150 | If training extends |
| Extra Classes | 120–170 each | Required after failure |
| VIP Test | 500–1000 | Faster scheduling |
| Assessment Fees | 150–300 | Internal exams |
Tips to Reduce RTA Test & Training Costs
- Attend all classes regularly – absences cost extra rescheduling fees.
- Take the theory test seriously to avoid retest charges.
- Choose a school with inclusive packages (often cheaper than paying separately).
- Book weekday tests as weekend tests may have premium rates.
- Complete training on time to avoid permit renewal fees.
Conclusion
The RTA driving test process in Dubai involves multiple layers of fees—some fixed, some unexpected. By understanding the complete cost structure, including test fees, assessment charges, and hidden expenses, you can plan your budget and avoid surprises during your driving licence journey.
FAQs
Q1: How much does an RTA driving test cost in total?
Usually between AED 750 and 1,300, depending on the number of tests.
Q2: Are there hidden charges for driving tests in Dubai?
Yes, extra classes, retest fees, file renewal, and admin charges can add AED 200–1500 more.
Q3: Which RTA test is the most expensive?
The road test is usually the costliest due to assessment and examiner fees.