The RTA knowledge test, often called the theory test, is the first of the three tests for a Dubai licence. You book it once your driving institute has finished your theory lectures. It is based on the RTA's Light Motor Vehicle handbook.
What it covers
- Road signs: warning, regulatory and information signs, and road markings.
- Rules of the road: lane discipline, right of way, roundabouts, overtaking, speed limits and motorway driving.
- Traffic offences and black points: fines, black points and when your licence or vehicle can be suspended or impounded.
- Safe driving: following distances, driving in fog and sandstorms, and sharing the road with pedestrians and heavy vehicles.
The RTA does not publish the number of questions or the pass mark. Your institute will tell you the current format. PassDriveTest's Dubai practice tests use a 35-question practice format.
A study plan that works
- Read the RTA handbook (your institute provides it, or download it from the RTA) and attend every theory lecture.
- Learn the signs by shape and colour, then each sign on the Dubai road signs tab.
- Take full mock tests and read the explanation for every wrong answer.
- Learn the numbers: speed limits, fines and black points for common offences, and the following distance.
- Keep practising until you score well above 90% on several different mock tests.
Topics people get wrong
- Roundabouts: which lane to use for each exit, and giving way to traffic already on the roundabout.
- Black points: how many points each offence carries, and that 24 points within 12 months means your licence is suspended.
- Using the hard shoulder and emergency lanes: only in an emergency.
- Mobile phones: holding or using a phone while driving brings a fine and black points.
- Fog and sandstorms: slow down, use dipped headlights (not hazard lights while moving) and increase the gap.
Next: the full Dubai licence process and fees, or take a free Dubai mock test.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.