My Journey to Getting a Driving License in Fujairah, UAE
Getting a driving license (DL) can be a significant achievement, especially in a vibrant place like the UAE. This article outlines my personal experience in obtaining my driving license in Fujairah, highlighting important tips and steps that made the process enjoyable and efficient.
Initial Steps
Moving to the UAE
I moved to the UAE in May 2024, and one of my first priorities after securing an Emirates ID was to apply for a driving license. Friends and family had mentioned that passing the driving test on the first attempt was a major accomplishment.
Locating my Traffic File
As an employee of a company registered in the Fujairah Free Zone, I was advised that I would need to open my traffic file there, even though I resided in Ras al Khaimah. This initially seemed daunting, especially considering the distance to the nearest driving institute, which was about 30 minutes from my office and nearly an hour from my home.
Registration and Preparation
Choosing the Right Driving Package
Recognizing that my busy work schedule only allowed for classes on Sundays, I registered with the Fujairah National Driving Institute (FNDI) on June 14, 2024. During registration, I learned that many people opt for the VIP package, which required a predetermined number of classes based on an initial evaluation. I was told I would need 28 classes, which would mean a lengthy preparation period.
However, after discussing my situation with the registration officer, I decided on a fixed package instead, which allowed me to attend classes until my instructor felt I was ready for the test. With the VIP package, a colleague of mine was scheduled for 36 classes.
Completing the Preparation
After registration, I participated in online lectures covering various driving modules. I then took a multiple-choice test based on the lectures. Thankfully, I passed this exam, which set me up for the next stage: the knowledge test at the institute.
I scheduled my knowledge test for July 2, 2024, and successfully answered 28 out of 32 questions in just 15 minutes. This allowed me to move forward in my driving journey.
Driving Lessons and Testing
Getting Started with Driving Classes
After completing my knowledge test, I was assigned an instructor who was familiar with my background. My first driving class was scheduled for July 21, 2024, nearly three weeks after my initial registration. Initially, I braced myself for a long wait, but everything changed on class day.
During my first driving lesson, the instructor focused on critical maneuvers such as slope tests, garage parking, and parallel parking. We practiced these skills extensively, which built my confidence. After showing promise during these practices, my instructor permitted me to schedule my parking tests for July 23.
Taking the Parking Tests
On the day of the parking test, I arrived early to find several students waiting for their turn. As I watched others complete their slope tests, garage tests, and parallel parking tests, I learned that following the instructor’s tips was crucial for success.
When it was my turn, I was well-prepared. I remembered all the guidance given by my instructor, which helped me excel in the tests. Once I completed the parallel parking test successfully, I received a message confirming that I had passed the yard test.
Important Tips for Success
- Listen to Your Instructor: They provide essential advice on where to look, stop, and how to approach parking tests.
- Practice: Repeated practice of parking and maneuvers increases confidence and skill.
- Focus on the Goal: Concentrate on getting your driving license rather than showing off your existing driving prowess.
Final Road Test
Final Preparations
After passing the yard test, I signed up for my second driving class on July 28, 2024. During this session, we practiced on public roads, focusing on various driving scenarios such as roundabouts, lane changes, and freeway driving. The following day, I booked my final road test for July 30, 2024.
The Road Test Day
On the day of my road test, I arrived at the institute feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. After some preliminary checks of the vehicle, I hit the road with the traffic police officer. I followed the checklist for safety checks and began my driving.
During the test, I executed a couple of U-turns and roundabouts smoothly. After about five minutes, we pulled over, and as soon as I exited the car and entered the waiting area, I received a message that read: PASSED. I was extraordinarily happy!
Timelines of My Journey
- June 14: File Opening
- July 2: Knowledge Test
- July 21: First Driving Class
- July 23: Parking Test
- July 28: Second Driving Class
- July 30: Final Road Test
In total, I completed my journey from registration to obtaining my DL in just 45 days. However, the time from my first driving class to receiving my license was only nine days.
Costs and Conclusion
Overall, the cost of obtaining my driving license at FNDI amounted to approximately 6,650 AED, including all classes, tests, and related fees. This experience was straightforward and enjoyable. On the same day I received my license, I also rented a car as I began searching for a used SUV.
My partner also had a great experience getting her driving license soon after. Overall, obtaining my driving license in Fujairah was a smooth and quick process compared to experiences in other Emirates, like Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
