How to Direct-Swap Your Foreign Driving License for a Local GCC License: Eligible Countries, Fees & Steps

There are a number of administrative steps which need to be taken when relocating to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), such as getting a local driving license. Thankfully, there are plenty of expatriates who are able to switch to driving in that country without going to driving schools, sitting for a test or practicing driving down the street.

Under suitable agreements signed by the GCC states, and similar initiatives taken by countries like Markhoos in UAE, international drivers/licenses holders are now able to get their driving licenses converted straight after receiving their residency permit. Although your country won’t qualify for direct conversion, there are other options, such as special testing programs, that can be quicker.

What is a Direct Driving License Swap?

The system of a direct driving license swap enables eligible expatriates to change their driving license from the mother country to that of a GCC country, thereby eliminating the need to be enrolled in any driving school or sit a “code of practice” driving lesson.

The process is applicable in a number of countries in the GCC including the UAE along with the traffic authority’s rules. The applicants just submit their documents along with undergoing the necessary eye exam, paying the government fee, and receive their local license upon approval.

Countries Eligible for Direct License Exchange

Driving licenses are acceptable in the GCC for direct use, number 57 countries and territories.

Eligible countries for GCC license swap are all the countries in the gulf, USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and many European countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Portugal, Poland, Croatia, Romania, Belgium, Austria, Finland, Denmark, Greece and more.

It is important to emphasise that many countries in the West insist that the driving license and the applicant’s nationality should match. Being able to drive does not necessarily mean that you qualify.

Documents Required for License Conversion

Ensure that you have in your possession all pertinent documents before using the application so that processing can occur without delay.

You will need your Foreign driving license, valid residence visa, valid passport, Emirates ID/citizenship ID, eye test report (approved) and the translation of the license into Arabic or English (if the driving license is not in these languages). Additional ID may also be required depending on nationalities.

Driving License Exchange Fees

Direct license exchange is much cheaper compared to taking aim at acquiring a full driving course.

The total expected estimation of Applicants is AED 1010 to 1050. These are typically where they apply for an application, issue a driving license, pay their superintendent for an eye test, pay fee on knowledge and innovation, and translator fees if they have to use the services of a translator.

Some emirates may charge a little more than the others, but it will still cost significantly less than enrolling in a driving institute, where the overall fees can sum up to more than AED 3,000.

Step-by-Step Process to Swap Your Driving License

The first step is to have an eye examination done at an RTA-approved optical centre. Uploaded electronically, and directly connected to your Emirates ID.

Then create your document portfolio and submit it online via the RTA website, RTA Dubai App, the Ministry of Interior portal or in an authorised customer happiness centre or driving institute.

Once approved your notice will be sent to pay the applicable government fee. After payment is made, you will receive the new GCC driving license in a couple of business days at your registered address or be able to have it printed right away.

What if Your Country is Not Eligible?

Those holding drivers’ licenses from other countries could still be considered for the Golden Chance Initiative provided by the UAE.

The programme can enable former drivers from abroad to skip the mandatory lessons and instead go straight to the theory test and final driving test. Successful candidates are issued their driving license in the UAE upon successful completion.

But, the Golden Chance scheme has only a single chance to pass the road test. If the candidate fails she/he must take part in the standard driving school programme before re-taking the test.

Benefits of Direct License Exchange

The direct conversion option will save time and cost, and will enable new residents to have a car ready to drive almost immediately after they finish the formalities.

It also prevents the need for lengthy lessons in driving, and various tests; which makes it easier for international motoring professionals to move to another country.

FAQs

If I’m eligible for the direct swap, do I have to take driving lessons?

No. Applicants are usually not needed to sit in the lessons and then go on the road prior to they get the local licence.

What are the costs involved in the process of license change in UAE for a foreign license?

Overall, the cost ranges from AED 1010-1050 (Including eye test fees, translation service and applicable government fees).

Do they have to get an eye exam?

Yes. Every applicant receives an Eye Test from an approved centre prior to submitting an application to exchange their driving license.

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