Dubai's RTA launches new 'Golden Chance' initiative, allowing individuals to skip driving licence classes & proceed directly to the test

This article highlights how to apply, costs and all you need to know.

Good news for those aiming to get their driver's license in Dubai! The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) now permits expats from non-exempt nations to bypass driving lessons and take the test directly, given that they possess a valid license from their home country. According to a call centre executive from the RTA, this new service, known as Golden Chance, was implemented from April 1st of this year.

The Ministry of Interior's website had earlier posted a roster of 43 countries whose driving license-holders are eligible to trade in their home country's license for a UAE driver's license. The list includes Estonia, Albania, Portugal, China, Hungary, Greece, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Slovenia, Serbia, Cyprus, Latvia, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Malta, Iceland, Montenegro, the United States of America, France, Japan, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Ireland, Spain, Norway, New Zealand, Romania, Singapore, Hong Kong, Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Finland, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Canada, Poland, South Africa, and Australia.

Residents who are not from the aforementioned exempt countries can now avail themselves of a one-time opportunity, courtesy of the new Golden Chance initiative, to bypass driving classes and directly take the driving test for a chance to obtain the highly sought-after UAE driving license.

Here's everything you need to know:

How to apply for the Golden Chance initiative?

To apply for the Golden Chance initiative, you can visit your nearest driving centre.

What are the costs?

It will range on the basis of the driving school. However, costs are expected to be around Dh2,200 (approximately). These will cover the costs of opening a file, tests, licence issuance etc.

Will I need to take any prior training?

No, the applicant will not be required to take any prior training. However, they can opt for the same with an additional charge.

What happens if I fail the test?

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

News Source: Khaleej Times