Dubai Launches Golden Chance Initiative Allowing Expats to Skip Driving Lessons and Take Direct Test

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has launched a new initiative that allows expats to obtain a UAE driving licence without having to take any driving lessons. The “Golden Chance” initiative is aimed at expats who hold a valid driving licence from their home countries and are able to pass the RTA driving exams in one take.

How Does the ‘Golden Chance’ Initiative Work?

The “Golden Chance” initiative by the RTA in Dubai is expected to make the process of obtaining a UAE driving licence more convenient and accessible for expats. However, it’s important for drivers to understand the rules and regulations of driving in the UAE and to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to drive safely on the roads.

An RTA call centre confirmed that this initiative called ‘Golden Chance’ came into effect on April 1.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) offers a service that facilitates the exchange of driving licenses within the ‘Markhoos’ initiative. It grants visitors the right to drive with their national driving license or exchange it with a UAE license if they hold a residence permit.

According to a list posted on the MoI’s website, licence-holders from these 43 countries are allowed to swap a driving licence from their home country for a UAE licence:

1. Estonia
2. Albania
3. Portugal
4. China
5. Hungary
6. Greece
7. Ukraine
8. Bulgaria
9. Slovak
10. Slovenia
11. Serbia
12. Cyprus
13. Latvia
14. Luxembourg
15. Lithuania
16. Malta
17. Iceland
18. Montenegro
19. United State of America
20. France
21. Japan
22. Belgium
23. Switzerland
24. Germany
25. Italy
26. Sweden
27. Ireland
28. Spain
29. Norway
30. New Zealand
31. Romania
32. Singapore
33. Hong Kong
34. Netherlands
35. Denmark
36. Austria
37. Finland
38. United Kingdom
39. Turkey
40. Canada
41. Poland
42. South Africa
43. Australia

Who Qualifies for the ‘Golden Chance’ Initiative?

To qualify for the “Golden Chance” initiative, expats must hold a valid driving licence from their home country and pass the RTA driving exams in one take. They must also be residents from non-exempt countries who have never taken any driving classes in the UAE.

How Can You Apply for the ‘Golden Chance’ Initiative?

To apply for this initiative, interested applicants can visit a driving centre and pay a fee of approximately Dh2,200, which covers the costs of opening a file, tests, and licence issuance. Although applicants are not required to take any prior training, they can opt for additional training at an additional cost.

What Happens If You Fail the Test?

If an applicant fails the Golden Chance direct test, they will have to enrol for regular driving classes.

 

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