If you are applying for a new driving licence or renewing your existing one in Sharjah, you must undergo an authorised driving licence eye test in Sharjah.
This essential step ensures that every driver on the road meets the required vision standards for safe and responsible driving. Here’s a complete guide to understanding how the eye test works, where to take it, and what to expect.
- Overview of the Sharjah driving licence eye test
- Is the driving licence eye test necessary?
- Eye test components and procedure
- Authorised eye test centres and costs
- Integrating the eye test with the licensing process
- Tips for passing the Sharjah driving licence eye test
- What if you fail the eye test?
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Overview of the Sharjah driving licence eye test
The driving licence eye test in Sharjah is a mandatory assessment that checks your visual ability to operate a vehicle safely. It is conducted at opticians and clinics approved by the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) and RTA.
The test evaluates clarity of vision, peripheral awareness, and colour recognition; all crucial for safe driving in varying conditions.
Is the driving licence eye test necessary?
Clear vision is the foundation of safe driving. The driving licence eye test confirms that all drivers, whether applying for the first time or renewing, can perceive and respond effectively to road conditions.
- Confirms that visual acuity meets safety standards.
- Mandatory for both new licence applicants and renewals.
- Assesses overall clarity of vision, ability to distinguish colours, and peripheral awareness.
In Sharjah, completing an eye test is mandatory for all drivers, regardless of licence type. This ensures that every motorist has the visual capability to drive safely.
Eye test components and procedure
Before the test begins, your optician will verify your identity and ensure your documents are valid. The assessment usually takes between 10 to 15 minutes and includes multiple components that together determine your overall visual capability.
Key vision assessments
Here’s a list of common tests conducted before a driving licence is issued.
- Visual acuity test: Reading letters or numbers on a Snellen chart to measure the sharpness of your vision.
- Peripheral vision test: Evaluates your ability to notice objects or movements outside your direct line of sight.
- Colour vision test: Assesses how well you distinguish red, yellow, and green, essential for traffic signals.
- Depth perception test: Occasionally conducted to check your judgment of distances on the road.
Eye test procedure step by step
This is the typical methodology of taking a driving licence eye test in Sharjah.
- Visit a licensed SRTA/RTA-approved optician or vision centre in Sharjah.
- Present your documents, including Emirates ID, passport copy, and residency visa if applicable.
- Complete the eye test, typically lasting 10–15 minutes.
- Obtain an electronic or printed certificate of results.
- Results are usually sent directly to the licensing authority by the clinic, ensuring smooth licence processing.
Special considerations for expatriates and commercial drivers
Expatriates must bring a valid residency visa and passport copies, and ensure their Emirates ID is current. For commercial and heavy vehicle applicants, stricter vision standards apply, and some may be required to undergo testing annually or more frequently to maintain compliance with licensing requirements.
Authorised eye test centres and costs
Sharjah has several authorised centres where you can complete your eye test. These facilities are approved by SRTA/RTA, ensuring reliability and electronic result submission.
These licensed opticians and clinics are authorised to conduct driving licence eye tests, providing reliable assessments and electronic submission of results directly to the licensing authorities.
1. Al Jaber Optical
Offers comprehensive eye tests at multiple branches, including King Faisal Street, ensuring quick certification for driving licence applications.
Contact Information
Email: ajoptic@aljaber.ae
2. Yateem Optician
Licensed by SRTA and RTA, Yateem Optician provides professional eye tests at branches in Al Qasimiya and various other locations, and results are submitted electronically.
Contact Information
Email: yatsahara@yatsahara.ae
3. Barakat Optical
Conducts driving licence eye tests at several branches across Sharjah. Barakat Optical offers electronic results accepted by SRTA.
Contact Information
Email: info@barakatoptical.ae
4. Al Falah Optics
Provides detailed eye exams at multiple locations, including Al Nahda, and submits the results directly to the authorities.
Location
It’s located on Al Wahda street, Industrial Area, Sharjah.
Contact Information
Email: info@alfalahoptics.com
5. SDI (Sharjah Driving Institute)
It’s authorised to conduct driving licence eye tests at their Sharjah centre. SDI issues electronic certificates for licence processing.
Location
It’s located in Sheikh Khalid Bin Khalid Al Qasimi street, near Sharjah Central Jail, Al Ramtha, Sharjah.
Contact Information
Email: info@sdi.ae
Eye test fees and payment
You can check the latest pricing on the SRTA or RTA portals. A standard eye test can cost anywhere between AED 50 to AED 200; additionally, most centres accept cards, cash, and digital payments.
Integrating the eye test with the licensing process
The eye test is the first step in opening your traffic file.
- Take and pass the eye test (obtain certificate)
- Open a traffic file via the SRTA or TAMM portal
- Register at a driving school and complete theory and practical training
- Proceed with the remaining licence application steps
Most opticians send the test results electronically to the authorities. This ensures accuracy and reduces paperwork for applicants.
Tips for passing the Sharjah driving licence eye test
Good preparation helps ensure a smooth and successful eye test experience:
- Bring your Emirates ID and any other required documents
- Get adequate sleep to avoid eye fatigue
- If you use glasses or contact lenses, bring or wear them
- Schedule regular eye checkups for long-term eye health
- Confirm the centre’s hours and location before your visit
What if you fail the eye test?
If you do not meet the required standards, the optometrist may recommend corrective lenses or further examination. In such cases:
- You may be asked to use glasses or contact lenses while driving
- Your licence will state “must wear corrective lenses”
- You can retake the test after using corrective measures or completing treatment
Key takeaways
The eye test is a vital requirement for obtaining or renewing a driving licence in Sharjah. It ensures drivers have the visual capability to drive safely and respond effectively to road conditions.
Tests typically include visual acuity, peripheral vision, and colour vision assessments. The cost ranges between AED 50 and 150, depending on the centre.
If you fail, corrective lenses or medical treatment may be required before retaking the test. Finally, always choose an authorised optometrist or clinic to ensure results are digitally submitted to the authorities.
Frequently asked questions
At authorised centres such as Al Jaber Optical, Yateem Optician, Barakat Optical, Al Falah Optics, and SDI.
The fee usually ranges from AED 50 to 150, depending on the provider.
You need an Emirates ID, a passport copy, and a residency visa (for expatriates).
You’ll be required to wear corrective lenses while driving, and your licence will indicate this restriction.
Your eye test certificate must be current at the time of application; older results may not be accepted.
