Starting January 1, 2027, new federal traffic regulations in the United Arab Emirates will introduce stricter criteria for passing the practical driving test, making a minimum score of 75 percent insufficient on its own to obtain a driver’s license. Under the updated rules outlined in Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, applicants must not only meet the minimum score but also avoid specific dangerous mistakes during the test to pass.
While Article 68 of the new Executive Regulation of Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2020 requires that learner drivers achieve at least 75 percent of the total evaluation marks, it also mandates a fail should the candidate commit errors deemed to pose actual or potential danger. These include hitting barriers, losing control of the vehicle at the start, making gear-changing mistakes, incorrect parking, ignoring traffic signs or signals, and, for motorcycle applicants, allowing a foot to touch the ground while riding. Furthermore, any scenario requiring verbal or physical intervention from the examiner to prevent a hazardous incident will result in failure regardless of the overall score.
The new regulations clarify that these safety-related infractions override the numeric score, emphasizing that practical driving proficiency and safety awareness are critical for licensing. Article 66 stipulates that following a successful theory test—which requires at least 75 percent out of 100 marks according to Article 65—applicants must complete a practical driving assessment structured by the licensing authority. This assessment addresses essential driving competencies, including engine starting, vehicle control, driving forwards and backwards, gear changes, stopping safely in various situations, parallel and designated parking, lane changes, turning, use of indicators, intersection and roundabout navigation, overtaking, maintaining safe distances, and appropriate use of mirrors.
Licensing authorities retain the discretion to introduce additional evaluation criteria when necessary to ensure comprehensive assessment standards. For candidates who do not meet the passing criteria, Article 69 provides for subsequent retesting opportunities.
The revisions aim to enhance road safety by ensuring that new drivers not only demonstrate technical skill but also avoid dangerous behaviors during the licensing process. The increased emphasis on risk prevention in the practical test reflects UAE authorities' commitment to reducing accidents caused by novice drivers.