get a free hand

To be allowed complete freedom to do what one wants or chooses. Can you believe I got a free hand from the boss on this project? Finally, I can present a campaign with my own vision! How does a megacorporation like them get a free hand with so much funding? Surely the government ought to put some sort of limitation on it, right? Hold on, you didn't get a free hand with this assignment—you still have to get your topic approved by the professor.

get, have, etc. a free ˈhand

be given permission or an opportunity to do what you want in your work, plans, etc: My boss gives me a free hand in deciding which outside contractor to use. ♢ She has a free hand in choosing her staff. OPPOSITE: tie somebody’s hands