The Riyadh Traffic Department began on Monday issuing driving licenses to women, 20 days before they are granted the right to drive. The women were given their licenses after undergoing driving tests in the Saudi capital. "Ten Saudi women made history on Monday when they were issued driving licenses," said the information ministrys Center for International Communication (CIC). "Expectations are that next week an additional 2,000 women will join the ranks of licensed drivers in the kingdom." "Its a dream come true that I am about to drive in the kingdom," Rima Jawdat, one of the women to receive a license, was quoted as saying by the CIC. The General Traffic Department has sought to open and operate driving schools dedicated to women. It has so far received requests from males and females to obtain a driving license.