Making sure your vehicle is roadworthy is an important responsibility for every motorist in Dubai. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) mandates regular vehicle testing to maintain safety and environmental standards. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about RTA vehicle testing in 2025.
Overview of RTA Vehicle Testing in Dubai
The RTA oversees vehicle testing in Dubai to ensure all vehicles meet the required safety emission standards. This regular testing helps in identifying potential issues that could compromise road safety or contribute to environmental pollution. Vehicles that pass the RTA test are deemed safe to drive on Dubai roads.
When is Vehicle Testing Required?
In Dubai, the frequency of vehicle testing depends on the age and the condition of the vehicle:
- New vehicles: Exempt from testing for the first three years. A mandatory RTA test is then required following the three-year period when it is time for the annual registration renewal.
- Vehicles older than three years: Required to be tested every year for the annual registration renewal.
- Commercial vehicles: May have different testing requirements based on their usage and category.
Additionally, vehicle RTA tests are required in the following situations:
- Transfer of ownership: When buying or selling a vehicle.
- Exporting a vehicle: Before exporting a vehicle outside the UAE.
- Re-registration: If a vehicle’s registration has expired for an extended period.
Some Popular RTA Testing Centers & Locations
In Dubai, there are many RTA testing locations and centers that motorists can easily visit to complete the required procedures and processes related to their vehicles.
Here is a list of some notable ones with their phone numbers and working hours:
| Testing Center | Location | Phone Number | Working Hours |
|---|
| Tamam Vehicle Testing | OTE Complex, Ras Al Khor Road, Al Aweer | 04-706-9900 | 08:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Tasjeel Vehicle Inspection | Warsan, University City Street | 04-333-6679 | 08:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Emarat Shamil | 199 Beirut Road, Al Qusais Industrial Area 2 | 04-267-1117 | 08:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Wasel Vehicle Testing | Al Jadaf, behind Al Wasl | 04-324-5524 | 07:00 AM – 09:30 PM |
Note: It is advisable to contact the centers directly or visit their official websites for the most up-to-date information.
Types and Fees of RTA Vehicle Tests
The below table provides a list of different tests that may be required to be performed in order to comply with the RTA Safety Regulations:
| Test Type | Definition | Price |
|---|
| Defect Test | If a defect is found during a roadside inspection or remote check, the vehicle must undergo this test at an approved testing center. | - |
| Export Test | Required before exporting a vehicle outside the UAE. This test records important details like the chassis and engine number. | Light vehicles: 25 AED
Heavy vehicles: 25 AED |
| New Vehicle Registration Test | Needed when registering a vehicle bought outside an authorized UAE dealership. Also required for ownership transfers and re-registration. | Light vehicle: 120 AED
Heavy vehicle: 150 AED |
| Re-test | If a vehicle fails any of the above tests, it must be re-tested after fixing the issues. | First re-test (light vehicle): 35 AED
First re-test (heavy vehicle): 50 AED |
Remember that only two re-tests are allowed per vehicle after failing the inspection, after which the owner will no longer be able to register the car and will be charged a Police fine along with a Road usage charge for every additional day the vehicle is not renewed.
Step-by-Step Process of RTA Vehicle Testing
In order to complete one of the tests at the RTA centers, the following is required:
1. Pre-booking (optional):
To avoid long queue times, especially during peak hours, it is recommended to pre-book your vehicle testing appointment. The RTA has introduced a pre-booking system that is available at select Tasjeel centers, such as Al Qusais and Al Barsha.
2. Prepare Necessary Documents:
Ensure you have the following documents:
- Emirates ID
- Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
- Valid insurance certificate
- Commercial license copy (for commercial customers only)
3. Prepare the Vehicle:
Ensure the vehicle is in a clean condition and the safety triangle, spare wheel, and fire extinguisher (as applicable to vehicle category) are visible and easily accessible.
4. Visit the Testing Center:
Arrive at the chosen center at an appointed time.
5. Payment of Fees:
Pay the applicable testing fee.
6. Receive Test Results:
Once the inspection is over, you will receive the test results via text message and e-mail:
Pass: Proceed with the registration renewal or other required processes.
Fail: Address the identified issues and schedule a re-test.
Common Reasons for Failing the RTA Vehicle Test
Understanding what the common reasons for vehicle testing failures are can help motorists better prepare prior to visiting RTA centers. Let us look at some of the main reasons vehicles fail the inspection tests:
- Worn-out tires with a tread depth below 1.6mm are unacceptable.
- Faulty brake systems or worn brake pads.
- Exceeding permissible emission levels due to exhaust leaks or malfunctioning catalytic converters.
- Non-functioning headlights, brake lights, or indicators.
- Worn or damaged suspension components affecting vehicle stability.
To prevent these issues, regular maintenance and pre-inspection checks are recommended.
RTA Vehicle Testing Fees and Payment Methods
As of 2025, the standard fees for vehicle testing in Dubai are 120 AED for a light vehicle and 150 AED for a heavy vehicle.
You can pay in cash, with a credit card, or in monthly installments.
How to Get Your Vehicle Testing Certificate
Since August 2020, the RTA has transitioned to paperless vehicle testing certificates. Upon completion of the inspection, the RTA will e-mail the certificate directly to the registered owner via e-mail and SMS. You may also check the status of your vehicle testing certificate via the RTA app.
Ensure you provide the correct e-mail and phone number information so you can receive your e-certificate promptly. In case you haven’t received your certificate within a reasonable timeframe, contact RTA directly.
Conclusion
As with everything else in Dubai, performing an RTA vehicle test is straightforward and easy. While the inspection itself doesn’t last longer than 10-15 minutes, the entire process may last anywhere from 15 min up to an hour or more, depending on the number of customers waiting.
For that reason, it is advisable to either schedule an appointment in advance or avoid busy hours to save time. In addition, having prepared the vehicle and all required documents will make the process even smoother.
