All About Annual Car Inspection and Testing in Dubai

• What Is Car Inspection
• Where to Get Car Inspection
• What Is Checked During Inspection
• Cost of Car inspection
• Validity of Inspection Certificate
• Vehicle Inspection Tips
• FAQs

Owning a car in Dubai comes with the responsibility of ensuring it is roadworthy and safe to drive. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a new car owner, understanding the annual car inspection and testing process is crucial to staying compliant with UAE laws and avoiding fines. Let’s break down everything you need to know about vehicle inspection in Dubai, including where to go, how much it costs and tips to make the process smooth.

What Is Vehicle Inspection and Why Is It Required

Vehicle inspection in Dubai is a mandatory check carried out annually (and sometimes more frequently, depending on the vehicle type or age). It ensures that vehicles on the road are safe, environmentally compliant and roadworthy. Inspections are designed to catch issues with brakes, tyres, lights and other critical systems. The inspection must be done once every year. For private vehicles:

• Brand-new vehicles are exempt for the first 3 years (in most emirates).
• Vehicles older than 3 years must undergo annual inspection. 
• Vehicles being sold or imported need inspection before registration.
• Classic cars and modified vehicles have specific testing requirements.
• Fleet vehicles or commercial vehicles are inspected more frequently (often every 6 months).

Where to Get Your Car Inspected Annually in Dubai

Each emirate has designated vehicle testing centres. Some of the major ones include:

Dubai – RTA Approved Testing Centres

• Tasjeel Dubai (by ENOC): Locations across Dubai (Al Qusais, Al Barsha, Warsan, etc.)
• Shamil: Operated by EPPCO
•  Tamam Vehicle Testing Centres in Dubai
• Wasel and Quick Registration: Available in select areas

You can usually walk in or book an appointment online through the popular Vehicle Testing Centres or RTA portals.

What Is Checked During Annual Car Inspection in Dubai

Dubai car testing regulations require annual checks for vehicles over three years old

The car undergoes a thorough inspection, which usually takes about 20–40 minutes. Here’s what they typically check:

Inspection Category	Checklist
Brakes and Suspension	– Brake pads, discs, and handbrake efficiency – Shock absorbers and suspension condition
Lights and Indicators	– Functioning of all front/rear lights – Fog lamps, indicators, and hazard signals
Tyres	– Tread depth and wear pattern – Age of tyres (must be less than 5 years old)
Windshield and Wipers	– Any cracks or chips – Functionality of wipers and washer fluid
Chassis and Body Condition	– No severe rust or major body damage – No sharp protruding edges
Emission Test	– CO2 emissions and exhaust smoke levels
Steering and Horn	– Steering alignment and functionality – Operational horn

If everything checks out, you’ll get a Passed Certificate. If not, you’ll receive a Failed Report with issues to fix.

Cost of Annual Car Inspection in Dubai

The fees vary slightly across emirates and testing centres but here’s an estimate:

• Light vehicle (car/SUV): AED 150
• Heavy vehicle (trucks/buses): AED 200
• Re-test fee: AED 35 (if within the grace period)

Note: If your car fails the test, you are usually given 30 days to repair the faults and return for a free retest at the same centre.

What Happens If You Miss Car Annual Inspection in Dubai

• Fines: Up to AED 500 for expired certificates.
• Registration Issues: You cannot renew your car registration without a valid inspection certificate.
• Insurance: Car insurance in Dubai may become invalid if the vehicle is not inspected as required.
• Vehicle Impoundment: Persistent non-compliance can lead to your car being taken off the road.

How Long Is a Vehicle Inspection Certificate Valid in Dubai

You must know the Car inspection checklist in Dubai to avoid test failures

In Dubai, a vehicle inspection certificate confirms that your car meets the required safety and emissions standards. It’s a crucial document needed to legally keep your vehicle on the road. The validity of the certificate depends on the type and use of the vehicle:

For Private Vehicles

• The inspection certificate is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
• You must renew it annually to maintain your car’s registration and stay compliant with Dubai traffic laws.

For New Vehicles

• Brand new cars are exempt from inspection for the first three years.
• After three years, annual inspections become mandatory for registration renewal.

For Commercial Vehicles

• Vehicles such as taxis, buses, and trucks require more frequent checks due to heavy usage. Their inspection certificates are typically valid for six months.
• Heavy vehicles, especially those transporting hazardous materials, need inspections every three months.

Tips for a Smooth Dubai Vehicle Inspection Process

Here are some practical tips to help you avoid failing car’s annual inspection in the UAE:

• Check lights and indicators yourself.
• Replace old tyre or ones with low tread.
• Fix car windshield cracks, no matter how small.
• Change brake pads if you hear squealing or grinding.
• Wash your car to make a good impression, even though it’s not mandatory.
• Check and fix any engine warning lights before the inspection.
• Top up all fluids and clean or replace the filters as needed.
• Fix any dashboard warning lights before inspection.
• For EVs, ensure the battery is in good health and the charging systems are functional.
• Remove valuables from the car before inspection.

Moreover, inspection services by dubizzle Cars can help identify potential issues early, allowing you to address them before the official annual inspection.

FAQs

How often do I need to get my car inspected in Dubai?

All vehicles older than three years must undergo annual inspection to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards set by the RTA.

What are the requirements for car testing in Dubai?

You’ll need to present a valid Emirates ID and the vehicle registration card (Mulkiya). The vehicle must be in roadworthy condition, with functional lights, brakes, wipers, and no dashboard warning indicators.

How much does a car annual inspection cost in Dubai?

The inspection fee for a standard light vehicle typically ranges from AED 150 to AED 200, depending on the testing centre and any additional services selected.

What happens if my car fails the annual inspection in Dubai? 

If your car fails the annual inspection in Dubai, you’ll receive a failure report and have 30 days to fix the issues and return for a first free re-test. If you miss this window, you’ll need to pay AED 35 for a second re-test.

Annual car inspection and testing in Dubai are vital for ensuring road safety, environmental sustainability, and legal compliance. By preparing your vehicle and staying up-to-date with inspection requirements, you contribute to safer roads and avoid unnecessary fines or complications. 

Moreover, if you’re looking to upgrade to a vehicle with a higher roadworthiness rating, you can explore a wide selection of used cars for sale in Dubai on dubizzle. Whether you’re interested in a reliable Nissan, a luxurious Bentley, or anything in between, dubizzle offers a diverse range of trusted options to suit every budget and lifestyle.

Stay connected with the dubizzle’s auto blog for the latest insights on vehicle testing and inspection.