Your Complete Guide to the Golden Chance Driving License in the UAE

The Golden Chance Driving License is your shortest path to get behind the wheel in the UAE. Designed for experienced foreign drivers, this fast-track option makes it easier for UAE residents, particularly expatriates, to get a driving license.

Whether you have recently moved to the UAE or are a long-time resident, the Golden Chance initiative is your special opportunity to skip driving lessons and minimize costs.

Our complete guide will coach you on everything you need to know to take – and ace – the Golden Chance test, so buckle up!

Understanding the Golden Chance Initiative

Eligible residents who already hold a valid license from their home countries can skip driving lessons and get a one-time opportunity to directly register for the knowledge exam, followed by the road test.

You get a UAE driving license if you clear both tests in one go – if you fail any of the exams, you must take mandatory lessons and undergo the standard procedure.

What is the Golden Chance Driving License?

First introduced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai and followed by other Emirates authorities, the Golden Chance initiative recognizes expatriates’ driving experience and offers them a special chance to reduce bureaucracy and avoid long wait times.

Eligibility Criteria for Golden Chance Applicants

Drivers who hold a valid license issued by over 40 countries can automatically convert their permit. The list can be consulted in the Ministry of Interior website.

If your country is not on the list, as is the case for Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino drivers, you can register for the Golden Chance test. You are eligible for this special opportunity if you meet the following criteria:

Age Requirements

In the UAE, the minimum age limits depend on vehicle type. Starting on March 29th 2025, the driving age for cars will be lowered from 18 to 17.

• Motorcycles and vehicles for people with special needs: 17 years.
• Cars and light vehicles: 17 years from March 29th 2025, and 18 years until that date.
• Heavy vehicles: 20 years.

Residency Requirements

To register for the Golden Chance test, applicants must be residents of the UAE and hold a valid residence visa, as well as an Emirates ID card.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Golden Chance Driving License

To help you succeed in this special opportunity, this guide will walk you through the registration process and provide useful tips and study resources.

Registration and Required Documentation

You can register to take the Golden Chance test on the RTA website, in the 'Apply for or Manage a Driving License' page.

After you verify your identity, you can book the Golden Chance test appointment by selecting the “instant test” option. Then, you will be asked to pay the total 420 AED required fees online and receive an SMS and email confirmation of your scheduled appointment date.

You will need to provide:

• Your original passport, along with a copy including the residence visa page;
• Your original Emirates ID card and a copy;
• Two passport-sized photographs;
• An eye test report from RTA-approved optical centers;
• A valid driving license from your home country, with a copy and an official translation.

The Theory Test: What to Expect

In the UAE, the theory test consists on multiple-choice questions assessing your knowledge on local traffic regulations, safe driving practices, and hazard mitigation.

The RTA Light Motor Handbook is a useful study resource, including information on general traffic rules, road signs, and safety procedures. To build up your confidence, you can also practice with mock questions available on local driving schools’ websites.

Behind-The-Wheel Training: Preparing for Success

Although they are not mandatory for the Golden Chance test, you can book optional driving lessons to build up your confidence in your driving skills. It is not allowed to drive on UAE roads without a valid license, even if you are accompanied by a licensed driver.

The Practical Driving Test: Tips and Tricks

To clear the road test, applicants must show familiarity with local traffic rules, safety procedures, and driving etiquette. Drivers are usually required to perform parallel parking, lane changes, and overtaking.

On your appointment day, make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes in advance. Remember to stay calm, remain focused on your abilities, and pay attention to your examiner’s instructions.

Receiving Your License: The Final Steps

After you passed both tests, your will submit the results to the local transport agency and pay a fee of around 300 AED to 400 AED. You can collect your new UAE driving license at a customer center or have it delivered by mail for additional 15 AED.

Comparison of Costs Between Standard and Golden Chance Licensing

Additional Expenses to Anticipate During Licensing

You will also be required to provide an eye test report to prove you are medically able to drive. Eye exams can be done at local authorized optical centers for around AED 100 to AED 200.

In case your license was not issued in English or in Arabic, you will have to show an official translation. This service costs between 100 AED to 400 AED, depending on the original language or document complexity.

Important Documents for the Golden Chance Test

On your exam day, make sure to bring all the necessary documents included in this comprehensive checklist:

The A-Z List: What You’ll Need to Bring Along

• Passport: original and copy (including the residence visa page);
• Emirates ID (original and copy);
• Two photographs in passport size;
• An eye test report from approved optical centers;
• Valid driving license from your home country, with a copy and an official translation.

Legalities and Translations

You will have to provide an official translation to Arabic in case your license was not issued in that language or in English. Make sure to have the service done by certified translators, otherwise the documents will not be accepted.