2021 Guide to Exchanging GCC Driver's license (My experience)

Hey Everyone,
I see this question pop a lot and personally did some research about it, so thought i'd write my own experience!

First thing, you NEED to have a valid GCC driver's license and a valid CPR Card.  Expired ones won't work! Yes, someone you know might have had this work for him/her, but general rule, they shoud be valid at time of submission.


1) Get an appointment on the SKIPLINO application, walk-ins are not accepted.  It's under MOI services, Traffic Services, Driver Licenses Divison - Driving School Branch.

2) Don't make my mistake and pick any service just to get an appointment, you need to pick REPLACE & EVALUATE DRIVING LICENSES.

3) Once you have an appointment, head to the Traffic Directorate (In A'Ali, not the one in ISATOWN) and  when you enter, don't wait for your number, just go to a desk and ask for the form to exchange a foreign license. Make sure to fill it ahead of time.

4) The form will have your details, along with the GCC Drivers license issue and expiry date. If you're like me and have a SAUDI one, the date is in Hijri for the issue, you need to convert it to Gregorian calendar. A quick google search help you with that.

5) You need a passport photo to attach, they will stick it on the form, so just take it as is. Official list of documents required was Photocopy of CPR, Drivers license and Residence Permit. Nobody asked me for anything. Take them with you just in case.

6) Now that your form is ready and number called, take the form, photo, drivers license, and head to the counter. You'll pay 5 BD for the eye test and the employee will scan your drivers license along the form on his system.

7) Once done and handed a pink receipt, head towards the eye test. You'll receive a different token number (keep it on you as they'll call you after the eye test is complete).

8) Once eye test is passed and the optometrist stamp your form, you'll wait again for your number (the new one you got for the eye test), head to the counter, and pay 20 BD to get the new license issued. This will be done on the spot.

Congratulations, you;ve now exchanged it. Took me 50 minutes from start to finish.

NB: Some people on the counters next to me were asked to bring a letter from employer, not sure who needs this, as i wasn't asked anything other than my CPR card.

Hope this helps