If you own a car in the UAE, you’ll need to pass the annual car test once your vehicle is older than three years. This test, also called the vehicle technical inspection, is mandatory for renewing your registration and proving your car’s roadworthiness.
The inspection checks key systems such as brakes, suspension, tires, emissions, and safety features. While it may seem daunting, proper preparation ensures you pass on the first try.
Let me break down everything you need to know—documents, inspection centers, common reasons for failure, and car maintenance tips to help you pass the annual car test in the UAE with ease.
Annual Car Test Importance
The RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) and related authorities like ADNOC testing centers in Abu Dhabi conduct these inspections to maintain road safety and environmental standards. The test ensures your car is safe to drive, doesn’t emit harmful pollutants, and meets UAE regulations.
Without passing the test, you cannot renew your registration, which means driving your vehicle would be illegal and could result in fines or impoundment.
Simply put: no passing certificate = no renewal.
Documents You Need for the Car Test
Before visiting an inspection center, prepare the right paperwork to avoid delays.
- Original Emirates ID of the vehicle owner
- Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
- Valid motor insurance certificate
- Passport copy and residence visa (for expats)
- Sale agreement or ownership transfer certificate (if applicable)
- Traffic file number (for used car transfers)
Having these ready will streamline the process, especially during vehicle registration renewal.
Authorized Inspection Centers
You can’t just go to any workshop; only authorized inspection centers are accepted. Popular options include:
- Tasjeel (Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman)
- Shamil (Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman)
- ADNOC Inspection Centers (Abu Dhabi & Al Ain)
- Tamam (Dubai, Sharjah)
- Wasel (Dubai)
The cost for the test ranges between AED 120–170 for the first attempt. If your vehicle fails, re-tests cost around AED 35–75, depending on the emirate.
What Gets Checked in the Annual Car Test
Here’s a breakdown of the vehicle inspection checklist:
| Inspection Area | What Inspectors Look For | Common Failure Causes |
| Brakes | Efficiency, balance, responsiveness | Worn pads/discs, fluid leaks, poor handbrake |
| Tires | Minimum tread depth (1.6mm), condition | Cracks, bulges, uneven wear |
| Lights & Indicators | Headlights, brake lights, hazards, alignment | Burnt bulbs, misaligned beams |
| Emissions | Exhaust gases within UAE limits | Faulty catalytic converter, exhaust leaks |
| Suspension & Steering | Stability, shocks, steering response | Worn bushings, loose steering arms |
| Chassis | Integrity of frame and underbody | Rust, structural damage |
| Windshield & Mirrors | Visibility and condition | Cracks, illegal tint |
| Fluids | Levels and leaks (oil, brake, coolant) | Low levels, visible leaks |
| Safety Features | Seatbelts, airbags, horn | Malfunctioning airbags, faulty seatbelts |
Related read: When to Change Brake Pads in the UAE – since brakes are a top reason for failure.
Common Reasons for Failing the Test
Many vehicles fail due to minor but overlooked issues.
Here are the top culprits:
- Worn brake pads or discs – often below the safety limit.
- Tire issues – tread depth below 1.6mm, uneven wear, or bulges.
- Faulty lights – non-functioning headlights, brake lights, or indicators.
- Emissions exceeding limits – caused by exhaust or engine issues.
- Fluid leaks – engine oil, transmission fluid, or coolant leaks.
- Suspension problems – worn shocks or struts.
- Excessive window tint – above legal allowance (30% front windows).
Regular car maintenance for the test reduces the chances of these failures.
How to Pre-Inspect Before the Test
You don’t need to be a mechanic to do a simple pre-inspection.
Here’s how to prepare:
Brakes
- Test braking on a quiet road; it should stop firmly without pulling to one side.
- Listen for squeaks or grinding—signs of worn pads.
- Check handbrake/parking brake holds securely.
Suspension & Steering
- Bounce the car at each corner, it should settle quickly without excessive movement.
- Look for fluid leaks around shocks or struts.
- Ensure steering feels stable, not shaky or loose.
Tires
- Use a tread depth gauge (or coin test) to confirm at least 1.6mm depth.
- Inspect sidewalls for cracks, bulges, or cuts.
- Don’t forget the spare tire—it must also be roadworthy.
Read our full guide on when to replace tires for safety tips.
Lights
- Test all lights, headlights, fog lamps, indicators, reverse lamps, and hazards.
- Clean lenses to avoid reduced brightness.
Fluids
- Check engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer levels.
- Look under the car for leaks before heading to the inspection center.
How EV Inspections Differ from Petrol Cars
Electric vehicles (EVs) go through the same safety checks (brakes, tires, lights, suspension), but they include extra EV-specific inspections:
- Battery health check – ensures no damage or extreme degradation.
- Charging system compliance – must meet UAE’s safety standards.
- Regenerative braking test – verifies energy recovery functions correctly.
- High-voltage wiring check – detects any risks in connectors and cabling.
This makes EV testing slightly different from petrol cars, but the process remains straightforward.
Typical Repair Costs After a Failed Test
Failing isn’t the end of the world—you get 31 days to fix issues and return for a retest. However, repairs can add up.
Here’s what to expect:
| Repair Type | Average Cost (AED) |
| Brake pads/discs | 300 – 1,200 |
| Tire replacement | 150 – 600 (per tire) |
| Light replacement | 50 – 300 |
| Suspension repairs | 500 – 2,500 |
| Emissions system fixes | 800 – 3,000+ |
| Fluid leak repairs | 200 – 1,000 |
Tip: Do a garage pre-test before the official inspection to avoid costly repeat fees.
How to Pass the Annual Car Test in UAE
Here’s a quick roadmap:
- Book an appointment at an authorized center (Tasjeel, Shamil, ADNOC, etc.).
- Gather your documents (Emirates ID, Mulkiya, insurance).
- Pre-inspect your car using the checklist above.
- Fix any issues (brakes, lights, tires, leaks).
- Clean your car inside and out (yes, dirty cars can sometimes cause rejection).
- Take the test – it usually lasts 10–15 minutes for light vehicles.
- If you pass, you’ll receive a roadworthiness certificate valid for one year.
- If you fail, repair the issues within 31 days and return for a retest.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Pass
- Always service your car a few weeks before inspection.
- Avoid going with aftermarket parts or modifications unless they’re RTA-approved.
- Keep tint within legal limits (30% front, 50% rear).
- Carry both physical and digital copies of your documents.
- Use RTA apps like Dubai Drive or Dubai Now to check pending fines before renewal.
Need more details on the process? Read our in-depth guide on vehicle registration process in Dubai.
Final Thoughts
Passing the annual car test in the UAE doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, checking your brakes, tires, lights, emissions, and fluids you’ll breeze through the inspection. Keep your documents ready, fix common issues beforehand, and choose an authorized center for testing.
Regular car maintenance not only ensures you pass the test but also keeps your vehicle safe on UAE roads. Whether you drive a petrol SUV or a new EV, passing the inspection is your gateway to hassle-free registration renewal and peace of mind.
