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Executive regulations reported by Emirates 24|7 on November 5 2026 have introduced 15 assessment criteria for the practical driving test while establishing a 75 percent minimum pass mark that applies to both the theoretical and practical components of the driving licence examination. The updated rules standardise the evaluation process for all licence applicants across the country and replace earlier assessment frameworks that had lower thresholds in some areas. Emirates 24|7 stated that the changes form part of a wider push to improve driver competence before candidates enter the road network.
The 75 percent pass requirement will be enforced uniformly for theoretical knowledge of traffic laws and for the on-road practical examination that now references the 15 defined criteria. Applicants who fall short in either section must retake the failed component under the new standards outlined in the regulations. According to the Emirates 24|7 report the practical test will evaluate performance against each of the 15 points during a supervised drive that assesses real-world application of safety principles.
Ministry of Interior figures show that traffic-related fatalities in the UAE declined by 74 percent between 2011 and 2025 reflecting the impact of sustained enforcement technology upgrades and awareness campaigns across all emirates. The introduction of higher test standards arrives as authorities seek to maintain this downward trend amid growing vehicle numbers and a rising population. A separate Ministry of Interior release placed the 2025 fatality count near historic lows continuing a long-term reduction that has seen deaths drop more than 60 percent since 2008.
Driving schools and licensing centres will adjust their training programmes to align with the 15 practical criteria and the elevated pass mark Emirates 24|7 reported. The theoretical examination will continue to test understanding of road rules and hazard recognition while the practical segment gains a more structured scoring system. Candidates who meet the 75 percent threshold in both tests will proceed directly to licence issuance under the revised procedure.
The regulations also emphasise consistent application at every licensing facility in the seven emirates according to the framework detailed by Emirates 24|7. Instructors have received guidance to incorporate the new criteria into lessons so that learners can address each assessment point before attempting the official test. This coordinated approach aims to reduce variability in driver preparedness that previously existed between different training providers.
Further implementation guidance is expected from federal and local traffic authorities in the coming weeks the Emirates 24|7 report added. The changes do not affect existing licence holders but will apply fully to all new applicants once the regulations take effect. Ministry of Interior data from earlier years indicated that young drivers aged 19 to 29 accounted for a significant share of accidents prompting particular focus on thorough initial testing.
