Tips for Passing Your Road Test in Dubai

Passing the road test in Dubai is a crucial step towards obtaining your driving license. Many applicants feel nervous about the test, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some important tips to help you pass your road test with confidence:

Knowing the Road Test Requirements

Before your test, familiarize yourself with the Examiner’s expectations. The examiner will assess your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic rules, observe the traffic situation and take the right decision on the road.

Understanding the test structure helps reduce anxiety.

Performing the Cockpit Drill

Before starting the test, perform the cockpit drill. Check all doors are properly closed. Adjust your seat, backrest, steering wheel, rear-view mirror, and both side mirrors. Fasten your seatbelt and make sure other occupants have fastened the seatbelt too.  

Note: After properly adjusting the seat and backrest, ensure that your hands and feet can comfortably reach and operate the vehicle's controls such as steering wheel, accelerator, brake, and clutch.  Maintain an appropriate seating position that allows for full control without being too close or too far from the controls.

Follow Examiner’s Instructions 

Listen carefully to the examiner’s instructions and follow them exactly. If you don’t understand something, politely ask for clarification.

Stay Calm and Confident

Nervousness can lead to mistakes. Take deep breaths, stay composed, and focus on your driving. Confidence shows the examiner that you are in control of the vehicle.

Proper Hand Positioning on the Steering Wheel

Make sure you are placing your hands on the steering wheel in correct position for better control and maneuverability. The correct hand position on the steering wheel for better control during training and the road test is the “9 and 3” position (like a clock). This means placing your left hand at the 9 o’clock position and your right hand at the 3 o’clock position. These positions ensure maximum control and stability while driving

Demonstrating Essential Driving Skills

Examiners expect candidates to demonstrate precise and controlled vehicle handling, including smooth acceleration, clutch operation, braking, and steering. To ensure this:

• Gradually increase or decrease acceleration for a steady drive.
• Apply the brake pedal smoothly to prevent sudden stops.
• Release the clutch pedal gradually to avoid lurching.
• Maintain a proper and soft grip on the steering wheel and operate it with controlled movements.

Smooth driving is essential. Avoid sudden braking, harsh acceleration, or jerky steering, as these indicate a lack of control and may negatively impact on your performance.

Check Mirrors and Blind spots

To ensure proper observation and awareness during the road test, follow these key guidelines for using mirrors and checking blind spots:

• Always check your rearview mirror before pressing the foot brake.
• Always glance at your rearview mirror before activating the turn indicator.
• In a manual transmission vehicle, check your rearview mirror before downshifting to a lower gear.
• Every 10 to 12 seconds, check your rearview mirror to be aware of the traffic behind you.
• Always perform a head check before changing lanes or overtaking a slow-moving vehicle

Lane Change

Lane changing is a crucial aspect of your road test. To execute a safe and smooth lane change, you should:

• Check the rearview mirror to assess the overall traffic behind and turn on the indicator (left or right, depending on the lane change direction). 
• Check the side mirror (left or right) to ensure the lane is clear.
• Perform a quick head check to scan the blind spots as these areas are not visible in the mirrors.
• Reconfirm using the rearview mirror, then gradually and smoothly move into the new lane. It is advisable to slightly increase speed while changing lanes, keeping in mind the speed limit and surrounding traffic conditions. 

Common Mistakes Candidates Make During Lane Changes

• Hesitating and missing a safe gap
• Squeezing  into too small gap, causing risk.
• Unnecessarily slowing down, disrupting traffic flow.
• Failing to perform a head check for blind spots
• Making unsteady movements while steering
• Sudden Swerving which can be dangerous

Maintaining Progress Throughout the Test

Progress is a key factor in the road test, and it refers to your ability to drive confidently, maintain a steady flow with traffic, and make timely decisions while ensuring safety. Examiners assess whether you can drive smoothly, avoid unnecessary hesitation, and keep up with the speed of the road conditions. 

• Adhering to speed limit signs and adjusting to road conditions. For instance, maintaining a speed of 60 km/h is appropriate if permitted by the speed limit and road conditions.
• Avoiding unnecessary hesitation at junctions, roundabouts, and lane changes.
• Avoid driving too fast or too slow for the road conditions.
• Move-off smoothly, gradually, and progressively from any stationary position.

What to Do If You Make a Mistake During the Test

Even if you make a minor mistake, stay focused and continue driving properly. One mistake does not always mean failure, and a good overall performance can still result in passing.

Final Thoughts on Passing Your Road Test

Preparation, confidence, and following road rules are the keys to success in the RTA road test. With enough practice and a calm mindset, you can pass the test and get your driving license. Good luck!