Obtaining a driver’s license in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an important step for residents and expats seeking freedom of movement and independence. The process of obtaining an identity card includes several stages, each of which requires attention to detail and compliance with established rules. Requirements and required documents:

• A copy of the passport with the resident’s visa.
• Emirates ID.
• Medical certificate of vision status.
• Passport-sized photos.
• Letter of Consent (NOC) from the sponsor, if required
  Stages of obtaining a driver’s license

1. Choosing a driving school
   Enroll in an accredited driving school approved by the Department of Roads and Transportation (RTA). Popular schools include Emirates Driving Institute, Belhasa Driving Center and Dubai Driving Center.
2. Opening the driver’s dossier
   Apply for a driver’s license at the driving school, providing all the necessary documents.
3. Theory classes and exam
   Take a theoretical course covering traffic rules, signs, and the basics of safe driving. After completing the course, take a theoretical exam consisting of 35-40 questions. To be successful, you must correctly answer at least 30 questions.
4. Practical exercises
   The number of practical sessions depends on your experience:

Beginners: 20-40 hours.
Drivers with experience: 10-20 hours.
Classes include learning how to drive, park, maneuver, and follow traffic rules.

5. Driving exams
   After completing the practical exercises, you will have to take several exams:
   Parking test: assessment of parking skills in various conditions.
   City Driving Test: assessment of the ability to drive a car in real road conditions.
6. Getting a driver’s license
   After successfully passing all the exams, you will receive a driver’s license valid in the UAE.
   The cost of obtaining a driver’s license
   The total cost of obtaining a driver’s license in the UAE varies depending on the chosen driving school and the number of classes required.:([miraestate.ae][4])
   Opening the driver’s dossier: ~200 AED.

• Medical report: 140-180 AED.
• Theoretical classes: 200-400 AED.
• Practical exercises: 100-150 AED per lesson.
• Total cost: from 4,500 to 7,000 AED.
  What to do if you fail the exam
  If you did not pass the driving test on the first attempt, you will need to take additional classes (usually at least 7 lessons) before retaking. Each additional lesson is paid separately.

The Golden Chance Program

The Golden Chance program is available for holders of valid driver’s licenses from certain countries, which allows them to take only theoretical and practical exams without compulsory training in a driving school. This can significantly reduce the time and cost of obtaining local rights. You can read about the list of countries in our next articles.