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40 classes must for driving test

As per the new rule, if a student fails a test, he could reappear only after a period of one month and after completing an additional seven classes.

Speaking to Khaleej Times yesterday, Shihab Hammad Bu Shihab, In-charge of the Licensing Department at RTA, said that the new rules would come into effect from January, 2007.

One month grace period has been given to driving schools and notices have already been sent to them, Bu Shihab said adding that the decision was taken following studies conducted by the RTA and the Traffic Department at Dubai Police to reorganise the training and testing of drivers.

Driving school experts say though they have no objection to extra coaching classes, the rule would put an extra burden on the people.

At present, driving schools are charging different rates. Students now have the option to choose a package with the cost ranging from Dh1,500 to Dh2,500 per package with a minimum 30 and maximum 45 classes. Some students can pay even less if they have an earlier driving experience.

Prospective students, however, did not welcome the tougher testing methods. “I already have a licence from my home country, and I have been driving for over 10 years there and I am sure that I can acquire a licence easily and within a short span of time in Dubai,” said David B. But with this new rule, I have now to spend more money and more time for acquiring a licence, he added.

Yesterday, the RTA announced that it would cancel the licences of small driving schools that do not meet the required standards prescribed by the federal law effective from January 1, 2007.

• UAE