In the process of acquiring or renewing driving license in Dubai, there is always one important procedure which is the eye test in driving license Dubai. Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will not grant or renew a driver license until your vision is according to their safety standard.
This tutorial describes each step of the process using a simple language. You will get to know about approved centers, necessary documents, fee, the process of booking, failure consequences and how to use the RTA site and app to complete your renewal process within a short time.
What Is the Dubai Driving license Eye Test?
Eye test is a brief medical practice that is used to determine the fact of whether your eyes are in a good condition to drive safely on the UAE roads. Simple tests are carried out by an optometrist or eye specialist in a center approved by RTA and thereafter, the results are directly transmitted to the RTA system.
This is necessary to the transport authority when an individual is taking out a new driving permit and during the renewal of the driving license. Consequently, all drivers are required to pass through an eye examination at some point of their time driving in the city.
When do you need an eye test?
You require an acceptable result in a test of the eye when:
- Making an application to receive a new driver license in Dubai.
- Renewing an existing driving license.
- Reinstating a suspended license in some cases.
- Assigning an existing license in another country at the request of RTA.
- Driving back to normal after serious eye surgery or illness.
These rules should be adhered to by the residents of Dubai of all nationalities. The term of the license is however changeable depending on the age and the type of license.
RTA Vision Standards: What do you have to pass?
The ratio of safe driving is established by the RTA. These regulations uphold the driver as well as other road users.
Basic vision requirements
Precise figures occasionally fluctuate, therefore, they are always updated with the most recent data on the RTA site. In general:
- You need to have a minimum visual acuity, with or without glasses or contact lenses.
- Vision should be sharp enough to read road signs and observe the danger.
- There are more rigid standards in some categories of licenses such as heavy vehicles and buses.
And even when provided that you wear glasses or contact lenses, you can still get the license or renew it on condition that your corrected vision is up to these standards.
Driving with glasses or contact lenses
The use of corrective lenses by many Dubai drivers is legal. In the eye examination, the optometrist would examine your sight using your regular pair of glasses or contact lens. When that correction suffices, it is put into the RTA system as “fit to drive”.
Your final license (usually) will always state that you should wear glasses or lenses when driving. skipping them during the test or while driving can risk your safety and, in some cases, your license status.
Dubai Eye Test Centers being approved by RTA.
An eye test driving license Dubai can not be done in all optical stores. The RTA will only accept the results of RTA authorized centers, which are linked to their digital system.
What are centres approved by RTA?
Approved centers refer to the clinics, hospitals, or optical shops that RTA has approved to:
- Conduct eye examinations on newly licensed and a renewal driver.
- Enter goes straight into the RTA database.
- Offer standard forms and services to applicants of licenses.
Top eye test centers and locations.
The known eye test centers in Dubai include:
- Prime Medical Center (different branches) – a popular medical facility that provides eye exams approved by RTA and other health-related services. Like these:
- Optical Emirates branches – referring to any of the numerous outlets related to Emirates Driving Institute, commonly referred to by students as optical emirates driving institute.
- Optical stores in shopping centers and around big locations such as the Dubai International Airport, Deira and Bur Dubai, and newer villages.
- Here you can find a list.
Documents that are needed in the Eye Test and the Renewal of the License.
You should bring your documents ready to visit the center to make it easy.
Paperwork that is normally needed at the eye test centers.
Some typical documents that are required include:
- Original Emirates ID (needed by the majority of centers).
- Current driving license in case you are renewing.
- Some special cases Passport and visa copy.
- A photo of passport size (only in some places).
At the reception, you will present your documents and confirm your personal details. The staff then creates or finds your record in the RTA system.
Additional packets on the expats and other nations.
When converting the license of a foreign driver, the RTA might require:
- Evidence of an authentic license of your home country.
- Some nationalities are to be officially translated or attested.
When this happens, it is always advisable to make a review of the requirements first on RTA site before you begin to make your booking or submission.
In case you put on glasses or contact lenses.
Remember to:
- Bring your present glasses/contact lenses.
- Do not take the test using old or broken lenses.
- Bring along any current report by your optometrist in case of vision change.
Procedure: The Eye Exam Step-by-Step.
The procedure is quite similar in most of the RTA approved centers. The entire phase normally lasts 10-20 minutes.
Booking and arrival
Most centers are available as a walk-in though an appointment may be more convenient, particularly around large driving schools. You can usually:
- Dial the telephone number of the center.
- Use their website.
- Or book using the RTA app or associated partner app.
Come early enough so that you do not hurry over the tests.
Enrolment and filing of the documents.
At reception, the staff will:
- Bring your Emirates ID and other documents.
- Check your address and license status.
- You can start your file in the electronic system.
After the registration, they take you to the optometrist or testing room.
The actual eye tests
Eye examination usually involves:
- Visual acuity test – the ability to read letters or symbols of varying sizes.
- Potential color vision examination.
- Single depth or peripheral vision examinations.
The individual carrying out the exam will take you through in bits. In case they are not able to grasp something, make them repeat what was said.
Digital submission to the RTA system
Once the test is done the center then keyes in the result on the RTA system. There is generally no need of you filling paper reports directly to the RTA.
The outcome is reflected on your profile in a short period. Thereupon may proceed with the renewal procedure or request a new permit.
Driving License Renewal Process After the Eye Test
After you pass the eye test of driving license Dubai and it is marked as fit, then you can begin the actual license renewal.
When can you renew?
Normally, drivers are able to begin renewing their driver licenses some months prior to its expiry. In case you drive using a lapsed license, the RTA is able to impose fines and the license may be displayed as suspended in the system.
Therefore, always check the expiry date in the RTA app or on your physical card.
Step-by-step renewal (online or in person)
After finishing the eye test:
- Check that your eye test score is posted on the RTA web or app.
- Sign in with your Emirates ID, UAE Pass or RTA credentials.
- Check personal information and location of contact.
- Pay any traffic fines if they exist.
- Make a payment of renewal fee of the license type.
- Choose how to receive the new card: courier services or self‑collection.
There are drivers who were using smart kiosks to print the card on site. Home delivery is also sought by others as additional convenience.
Eye test and renewal costs
Prices do vary occasionally, but the following gives an approximate picture:
| Item | Approximate Cost Range (AED) |
|---|---|
| Eye exam at optical / medical clinic. | 120 – 180 |
| Frequent vehicle license renewal of light vehicle. | 300 – 400 (excluding fines) |
The exact cost is always to be verified in the RTA site or at the center. Some of the promotions include second opinions that are complimentary or reduced tests in case you purchase glasses that can save some money.
Eye Test for New Drivers and Driving Test Candidates
Eye test should be completed by new drivers in a driving institute. Not without a valid result in the system there is a possibility to proceed to subsequent stages.
Connection with theory examination and road test.
The knowledge test (theory test) and road test will require clear vision. Poor eyesight makes it very difficult to read sign diagrams, screen questions and real world traffic.
Therefore:
- A lot of institutions require students to take the eye test prior to the commencement of classes.
- Other institutes have optical emirates or such optical stores right inside the institute.
This system ensures it is quick and highly convenient to the learners.
What happens when you fail the eye test?
In some cases when optometrist finds that there is no satisfactory vision to drive, then he/she makes the decision.
Common reasons for failing
Reasons can include:
- Failing to put on your normal glasses or contact lenses.
- Old prescriptions that no longer correct your vision well enough.
- Eyes: Untreated medical conditions.
Being unsuccessful does not necessarily imply that you will never drive. It is actually an indication that your eyes require first proper care.
Fermilies of the failure to pass the test.
After a failed result:
- See an eye clinic or optometrist to have a complete check-up.
- Get new pair of glasses or contact lenses.
- Receive any necessary treatment.
After 30 to 45 days of the eye condition improving, then you can take the eye test again in an approved center. Nevertheless, you should anticipate another payment of the eye test fee.
In severe instances, physicians can recommend you to drive nowhere. This not only safeguards your health, but that of other people in the road.
Using the RTA Website and App for Smart Renewal
The licensing system is a result of Dubai being the most digitally innovative in the region.
RTA website
In the RTA website, drivers can:
- Check license and eye test information.
- Complete and commence the online renewal.
- Attach additional documents in case they are requested by RTA.
RTA approved centers are also listed on the site and describe the current regulations in every category of the license.
RTA mobile app
On the official RTA app (like Dubai Drive):
- See your license number and expiry date.
- Receive messages in advance.
- Make payment of fines and renewal fee using card/ digital wallet.
Since it all is connected to your Emirates ID, it is now much easier to control your driver license in the UAE.
The choice of the most appropriate eye test center in Dubai.
There are numerous centers so a quick comparison will assist you in choosing the right one.
Consider these factors:
- Location – close to home, work, your driving school or the Dubai International Airport in case you are a frequent traveller.
- Opening times – evenings and weekends can be convenient in a hectic schedule.
- Price – compare the fee levels and seek deals.
- Additional services – same-day glasses, medical check-ups, or on-site photo of the license.
The properly selected hub will save time, eliminate visits and facilitate submission to the RTA.
Fast Keys Frequently Asked Questions: Dubai Driving license eye test.
What is the cost of the eye test of driving license Dubai?
The cost of most eye test centers ranges between AED 120 and 180 based on the place and brand. It is better to always check the latest fee prior to going.
How long is the eye test result valid?
Typically, the result stays valid for a short period before renewal. Thus, make the eye test near the time of the license renewal so that it is not repeated.
Is online renewal of Dubai license possible after eye test?
Yes. As soon as the outcome is available in RTA system, the majority of the drivers will be able to use the RTA website or app to complete the whole renewal process and then select the option of delivery or kiosk printing.
Key Takeaways
The driving license eye test Dubai is a basic yet a critical precaution to safety. By:
- Attending a center that is approved by RTA such as Prime medical center or Optical Emirates,
- Carrying along all needed papers,
- And with healthy eyes and sightful glasses,
all drivers will be able to retain their driver’s license and not face any troubles at the last moment.
Use this article as a checklist, and RTA rules should be reviewed frequently, and eyes health should be proactive. Safe vision translates to safer roads to all the people of Dubai and the Emirates as a whole.
