Fitness test mandatory for private chauffeurs: RTA Dubai

(Photo used for illustrative purposes only)

Dubai - The move is part of a plan the RTA had charted since 2011 for issuing annual professional permits for different categories of drivers.

By Staff Reporter

Published: Wed 23 Mar 2016, 7:00 PM

Last updated: Thu 24 Mar 2016, 7:55 AM

New medical testing procedures will be launched for private family chauffeurs this year, according to Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
As per the new requirements, the drivers have to undergo a mandatory medical fitness test, which involves the private chauffeurs having to test for communicable diseases and other medical conditions such as blood pressure, diabetes, eyesight and a general physical examination.
The move is part of a plan the RTA had charted since 2011 for issuing annual professional permits for different categories of drivers.
This move was initiated by issuing permits for drivers of trucks, buses, taxis, and now private chauffeurs hired by families.
"The professional driver's permit is a proof that the holder has passed the prescribed medical tests and is free from communicable diseases," said Jamal Assada, Director of Drivers Licensing at RTA's Licensing Agency.
"Private chauffeurs for families is an important category that had to be subjected to annual medical tests to ensure their medical fitness as it has implications on the safety of families and children," added Assada.
"The mandatory medical tests comprise a number of phases before the issuance of online medical permits directly from hospitals."
A comprehensive electronic system integrated with the traffic system is in place for use by hospitals and the firms concerned.
Through this system, results of the medical test are entered and permits are issued.
dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com