RTA streamlines issuance of driving licence with ‘Golden Chance’

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) recently launched the “Golden Chance” initiative, paving the way for expatriates holding a driver’s licence from non-exempt countries to obtain a UAE driving licence without attending driving classes.

“This is your Golden Chance to apply for a new driving license without attending driving classes and get a direct road test via RTA’s website,” the transport authority said in a tweet.

The new “Golden Chance” initiative is aimed at streamlining the process of acquiring a driving license for eligible applicants. RTA said applications for new driving licences through the new service can be done through its website or by visiting the nearest driving institute in the city.

The authority said the initiative includes a knowledge test and only a one-time road test service. It allows students to obtain a UAE driver’s licence without having to take any theoretical/practical training.

إليك فرصتك الذهبية عبر موقع الهيئة الإلكتروني! تقدّم بطلب رخصة قيادة دون حضور دروس القيادة لإجراء اختبار طريق مباشر.
للتقدّم بالطلب, يمكنك زيارة: https://t.co/VRATH836L8 pic.twitter.com/ODhWUoHE2Y

— RTA (@rta_dubai) April 28, 2023

However, the transport authority said students can optionally opt for prior practical training only if they wish to for Dhs210 including VAT per hour.

To qualify for this “Golden Chance,” applicants must meet specific criteria. First, they must own a valid driving license from their home country. Secondly, they must successfully pass both the RTA’s theoretical and practical driving examinations in a single attempt.

The cost of “Golden Chance” tests depends on the preferred driving school. However, it is reportedly expected to cost between Dhs1,500 to Dhs2,500 for the entire service including opening a file, the driving test and receiving the licence.

This is a one-time chance and if an applicant fails the test, they will have to enrol for regular classes. The initiative took effect on April 1.

Obtaining a UAE driving licence

Meanwhile, although the majority of UAE residents are to undergo several tests before being granted a license, there are a select few countries whose licence-holders are exempt from it and allowed to drive in the country.

The UAE’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) offers a service that facilitates the exchange of driving licenses within the ‘Markhoos’ initiative. The Markhoos initiative 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 information on the MOI’s website resident who holds driving licences from 43 countries including South Africa, the US, Japan and Hong Kong can swap a driving licence from their home country for a UAE licence.

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