Dangerous driving-test mistakes trigger automatic fail from Jan 2027

Learner drivers in the UAE could score at least 75 per cent in their practical driving test and still fail if they make a dangerous mistake, under new regulations taking effect on January 1, 2027. The rules require UAE residents applying for a driving licence to achieve a minimum score of 75 per cent in both theory and practical tests. However, meeting that threshold does not guarantee a pass, as certain dangerous errors can result in automatic failure regardless of the overall score. Article 68 identifies mistakes that can lead to automatic failure, including losing control of the vehicle, hitting a kerb or barrier, failing to obey traffic signs or signals, and making dangerous mistakes when changing gears. If an examiner has to speak to or physically intervene with a learner to prevent a dangerous situation, the candidate can automatically fail the test. Under Article 69, applicants who fail the practical driving test will be given another test date by the relevant licensing authority. The regulation does not prescribe a fixed waiting period before a learner can retake the test, nor does it require additional driving lessons as a condition for taking it again. The new regulations take effect on January 1, 2027, and do not provide an exemption for applicants who began driving lessons or booked their tests before that date. Driving schools and licensing authorities will need to update their testing procedures.