DHA Exam Requirements Physiotherapist: Complete Guide
If you're a physiotherapist aspiring to work in Dubai, the DHA exam is your gateway. This exam, conducted by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), assesses the qualifications, skills, and clinical expertise of healthcare professionals to ensure they meet the standards required to practice in the UAE. In this article, we'll walk you through all the DHA exam requirements physiotherapist candidates must meet, including eligibility, documentation, exam format, and application steps.
Understanding the DHA Exam for Physiotherapists
The DHA exam for physiotherapists is a licensure test that ensures all medical professionals in Dubai are competent and safe practitioners. Clearing the exam is mandatory for foreign-trained physiotherapists seeking employment in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and wellness facilities across Dubai.
DHA Exam Requirements for Physiotherapists
Eligibility & Documents
To appear for the DHA exam, physiotherapists must meet specific criteria set by the Dubai Health Authority. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the DHA exam requirements physiotherapist candidates need to fulfill:
1. Educational Qualifications
Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy (BPT) from a recognized and accredited institution. The degree program should be at least four years long and must include clinical training or an internship as part of the curriculum. Diploma or short-term certificate courses are not accepted.
2. Work Experience
Applicants must have a minimum of two years of full-time clinical experience after completing their internship. The internship period is not counted toward this required experience. The experience must be from licensed hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers.
3. Good Standing Certificate (GSC)
A Good Standing Certificate from the applicant’s local health authority or professional council is required. It must be dated within the last six months and be in English or with a certified translation. It confirms that the candidate has no disciplinary or malpractice history.
4. Required Documents
- 10th STD/SSLC Certificate
- 12th STD/Plus 2 Certificate
- Bachelor’s Degree Certificate
- Transcripts (UG and PG)
- Council Registration Certificate
- Good Standing Certificate (from the council or association)
- Front and Back Pages of Passport
- Updated CV (including work experience)
- Recent Passport-Sized Color Photograph (White Background)
- Experience Certificates (Minimum 2 years post-internship)
- Internship Certificate
Dataflow Verification
All applicants must undergo Dataflow Primary Source Verification (PSV), which verifies the authenticity of your academic credentials, professional license, and employment history. The process usually takes 4 to 6 weeks and is a critical step in determining eligibility for the DHA exam.
Application Process for DHA Exam for Physiotherapists
Once you meet all the requirements, you must:
- Create a professional profile on the DHA Sheryan Portal.
- Submit documents for Dataflow PSV.
- Wait for DHA to complete an eligibility review.
- Receive an eligibility letter if approved.
- Schedule the Prometric CBT (Computer-Based Test).
The exam includes:
- 150 multiple-choice questions
- 3-hour duration
- Passing score: 60–65%
Results are released within 3 to 5 working days. Upon passing, you can start job applications and license activation through a sponsored healthcare facility in Dubai.
FAQs
1. Can I apply with only 1 year of experience after internship?
No. DHA requires 2 full years of post-internship experience.
2. Does the internship period count toward experience?
No. Internship is part of your education.
3. Can fresh graduates apply?
No. Fresh graduates must complete 2 years of clinical experience post-internship.
4. What is the minimum qualification required?
A Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy from a recognized institution with internship and required experience.
5. How long is the DHA eligibility letter valid?
It is valid for 1 year.
6. Can I take the DHA exam from my home country?
Yes. It is conducted through Prometric centers globally.
7. What if I fail the DHA exam?
You can retake it after 3 months. Repeated failures may need additional training.
8. How long does the full licensing process take?
Usually 2 to 3 months depending on verification and exam scheduling.
9. Can I work in other Emirates with a DHA license?
No. DHA is specific to Dubai. For other Emirates, apply for HAAD (DOH) or MOH separately.
10. How many times can I attempt the DHA exam?
You can attempt it up to 3 times. After that, further requirements may apply.
Conclusion
Understanding the DHA exam requirements for physiotherapists is the first step toward building a successful career in Dubai. With the right education, verified documents, and proper preparation, you can pass the exam and begin working in one of the most dynamic healthcare sectors in the world. Trust Unique Mentors to guide you through every step—from eligibility to employment. Your dream of working in Dubai is closer than you think.
