DHA exam eligibility for nurses
To be eligible for the DHA exam as a Registered Nurse you need a bachelor's degree in nursing of at least 3 years full time and a valid BLS certificate. No minimum years of experience are required, but the discontinuity-of-practice rules still apply.
The requirements for Registered Nurses
- A bachelor's degree in nursing, at least 3 years full time.
- A valid Basic Life Support (BLS) certificate.
- No years of experience are required. DHA marks this with an asterisk that refers to its discontinuity-of-practice criteria, so a long gap in practice can still matter.
- All UAE examinations are conducted in English.
Where the rules come from
The requirements above come from the Unified Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR), April 2025 edition, which UAE health authorities share. DHA can change its rules without notice. Always read the current document on DHA's own website before you apply.
The PQR also has a list of exemptions, for example for UAE nationals, and a list of exam equivalencies. If you passed a licensing exam with another UAE authority, read that section before booking again, because attempts are counted across authorities.
Graduates of UAE universities
The PQR sets a six-month post-graduation training period in an approved practice setting for non-UAE nationals who graduated from UAE universities. The Registered and Assistant Nurse titles are listed as excluded from this requirement. Confirm your own case with DHA if you studied in the UAE.
After you are eligible
Apply through Sheryan, receive your Eligibility ID and book at Prometric. See fees and the hub for each step. You can begin to prepare now with the free 20-question check.
Common questions
Can a diploma nurse sit the DHA exam as a Registered Nurse?
The PQR asks for a bachelor's degree in nursing of at least 3 years for Registered Nurses. A diploma nurse may fit the Assistant Nurse title instead. Check DHA's PQR for your case.
Do I need experience for the DHA exam?
No minimum years are listed for Registered Nurses, but the discontinuity-of-practice criteria apply.
Is BLS required for the DHA exam?
Yes. A valid BLS certificate is listed for Registered Nurses.
Where can I read the DHA requirements?
In the Unified PQR on DHA's Sheryan site, linked in the sources below.
Related guides
Sources
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