If you live in Dubai, you are required to have your car tested annually. This is called vehicle testing. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) aims to ensure that every vehicle on the road is safe to drive.

Let’s look at where to go, how much it costs, and when to visit a vehicle testing center in Dubai.

What is Vehicle Testing?

Vehicle testing is a check-up for your car. It makes sure your car is safe and working well. If your car passes the test, you can renew your registration. You can also check our guide on the car registration renewal process here: Renew Car Registration Dubai.

Some people call it a comprehensive test. The RTA checks things like the engine, tires, brakes, lights, and more.

Documents Required for Vehicle Testing

When visiting a vehicle testing center in Dubai, bring:

• Emirates ID or Passport
  
• Driving license
  
• Car registration papers
  
• Car insurance
  
• Visa copy (if required)
  
• Old test result (if it’s a re-test)

Step-by-Step Vehicle Testing Process

Here’s what usually happens during a vehicle test in Dubai:

1. Drive to the nearest RTA-approved vehicle testing center
   
2. Submit required documents (Emirates ID, registration card)
   
3. The car is taken to the inspection area
   
4. Experts check the car’s brakes, lights, tires, engine, and emissions
   
5. You receive a pass or fail report
   
6. If the car passes, proceed to registration/renewal
   
7. If it fails, fix the issues and return for a re-test

Common Reasons Why Cars Fail the Test

To avoid a failed test, watch out for these:

• Worn-out or bald tires
  
• The brake system is not working well
  
• Headlights or indicators not working
  
• Oil leaks or engine trouble
  
• High exhaust emissions
  
• Broken suspension parts
  

Tip: Fix small problems before the test. It will save time and money.

When to Get Your Vehicle Tested

Vehicle Type	First Test	Next Tests
Brand new car	After 3 years	Then every year
Used car	Every year	Before registration renewal
Expired registration	Immediately	Before driving again

If you delay, you may need to pay fines or even get black points.

Penalties for Skipping the Test

If you don’t test your car on time, these are the risks:

• Fine: AED 500
  
• Black points: 4 on your license
  
• Car impoundment (in serious cases)
  
• No insurance coverage in some accidents
  

Driving a car without testing is risky and expensive. Don’t take the chance.

Cost of Vehicle Testing in Dubai

Testing fees depend on the type of vehicle:

Type	Price
Light Vehicles	AED 150–170
Heavy Vehicles	AED 200+
Re-Test (if failed)	AED 35–50
Tasjeel Comprehensive Test Price	AED 170
Export Test	AED 25

Some places offer the first test free for new vehicles. Re-tests are charged.

Where Can I Go for Testing?

There are many RTA vehicle testing centers in Dubai. Some of the popular ones are:

1. Tasjeel Al Qusais

• Location: Al Qusais Industrial Area
  
• Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Some services 24 hours)
  
• Services: Light & heavy vehicle testing, registration, renewal
  
• Special Tip: Very busy—try going early morning or late night
  

2. Shamil Al Barsha

• Location: Al Barsha 3, near Al Barsha Mall
  
• Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  
• Services: Vehicle test, car insurance, registration
  
• Known for: Fast service and clean waiting area
  

3. Wasel Nad Al Hamar

• Location: Nad Al Hamar Road, near Ras Al Khor
  
• Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  
• Services: RTA test, technical check, registration
  
• Note: Popular for residents near Mirdif & International City
  

4. Quick Test Center Al Quoz

• Location: Al Quoz Industrial Area
  
• Timings: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  
• Services: Testing, registration, battery check
  
• Extra: Small center but quick service
  

5. Tasjeel Al Barsha

• Location: Sheikh Zayed Road
  
• Timings: 24 Hours
  
• Services: Car testing, registration, insurance
  
• Perfect for: Late-night visits and busy professionals

Some testing centers are open 24 hours. So, you can go early in the morning or even late at night if you are busy during the day.

If you’re searching online, try keywords like:

• “Vehicle testing near me”
  
• “RTA vehicle testing center near me”
  
• “24-hour car registration in Dubai”

What Types of Vehicles Are Tested in Dubai?

For New Registration

All new vehicles must pass a test before they can be registered. This test checks if the vehicle is safe for the road. If the car fails, it cannot be registered, and there may be extra fees. For new registration, you can check our guide: Process of Car Registration.

Periodic Vehicle Test

This is done every year to make sure your vehicle is still safe. It checks the brakes, lights, tires, and exhaust emission levels. These tests are done at an RTA car testing center.

Testing for Defects

This test finds any hidden or dangerous defects in your car. It may be done if your car has been in an accident or shows signs of serious damage.

Export Test

If you plan to export your car from the UAE, it must pass this test. It ensures the car is legal and ready for shipping.

You can refer to our guide for instructions on how to register an imported car.

Busy? Let Car Registration UAE Handle It

No time to go to a vehicle testing center? No problem!

Just call Car Registration UAE at 📞 050-7979225.

We offer a full vehicle testing and registration service:

• We pick up your car from your home or office
  
• Take it to the nearest RTA car testing center
  
• Get the test done
  
• Handle documents and registration
  
• Return your car safely
  

This is a great option if you are short on time or just want convenience.

Final Words

Dubai roads are safe because of strict vehicle testing rules. Don’t risk driving without a test. Visit an RTA vehicle testing center near you or let professionals like Car Registration UAE handle it for you.

Stay safe. Stay road-legal.