What's the "Golden Chance" for a driver's license in the UAE?

The “Golden Chance” is a program that looks to streamline the process of obtaining a driver's license in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). What it means is that citizens from specific countries that moved to the UAE can apply for a driving test in the UAE, skipping the requirement for driving lessons. 

To understand the process and if you’re eligible for it, keep reading:

Are you eligible for the Golden Chance?

It’s a quick process to figure out if you’re eligible for the Golden Chance: the RTA website has an option called 'Apply for a New Driving License Based on Exchanging Licenses’ that will let you know. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Input Personal Information on the RTA Website

Access the official RTA website and initiate the application process by clicking on the 'Apply Now' button. Enter the required details such as Emirates ID and expiry date, along with a mobile number and follow the steps. You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) via SMS for verification, so ensure you have the number right. Once logged in, confirm the personal information displayed, including name, sponsor details, profession, and contact information.

Also, you can read: Back to School UAE 2025: Exclusive Car Subscription Offers for Parents & Teachers

Step 2: Provide Previous License Details

Do you have a driver’s license from your home country? Input its information such as category, issuance and expiry dates, possession status, and nationality. Select the driving license category, the most common is 'Light Motor Vehicle.' Depending on the issuing country's eligibility, choose either the 'Golden Chance' or 'Normal Stage' route.

Applying for the Golden Chance Test

If you’re choosing the Golden Chance route (check if you are eligible below), the RTA website will give you instructions on proceeding with the application process. The next steps most likely will be: 

• Eye Test: Undergo an eye examination at any RTA-registered optical outlet in the UAE.

• Knowledge Test: Visit a registered driving institute to take the knowledge test, which proves your comprehension of road signs, highway regulations, and hazard management.

• Road Test: After passing the knowledge test, you will schedule the 'Golden Chance' road examination.

When you pass the road test, you will get a two-year driving license, extendable to another five years after the first renewal.

Fees and Required Documentation

You will need to pay different fees for the Golden Chance test, but it should still be a lower overall amount compared to if you had to take driving lessons. They are enrollment, theory and road tests, license issuance, and eye examination.

Documents you will need to provide: original home country driving license with Arabic translation, passport and residence visa copies, Emirates ID card, passport-sized photos, eye test report, and a sponsor's no objection letter if mandated.

Which countries are contemplated by the Golden Chance?

These are the 43 countries contemplated:

• Albania

• Portugal

• Hungary

• Greece

• Bulgaria

• Ukraine

• Estonia

• Slovak

• Slovenia

• Serbia

• Cyprus

• Latvia

• China

• Luxembourg

• Lithuania

• United States of America

• Iceland

• Montenegro

• France

• Japan

• Belgium

• Switzerland

• Germany

• Malta

• Italy

• Sweden

• Ireland

• Spain

• Norway

• New Zealand

• Romania

• Singapore

• Hong Kong

• Netherlands

• Denmark

• Austria

• Finland

• United Kingdom

• Turkey

• Canada

• Poland

• South Africa

• Australia

What happens if you fail? Well, you’ll simply need to go through the standard process: taking classes on the theory and practice, with a registered driving school. But if you are from one of the eligible countries, you should consider the Golden Chance – it’ll be quicker, more convenient and less expensive. And when it’s time to rent a car, subscribe with invygo to avoid any other headaches. We’ve got you.