Driving in Mauritius as a Foreigner: What Licence Do You Need?

If you're planning to drive in Mauritius as a foreigner, it's important to understand the legal requirements and how they're actually enforced. While the official rules are straightforward, enforcement on the ground can vary and is often more relaxed than you might expect. Still, staying within the law remains the safest option, especially in the event of an accident or police check.

Here’s a practical breakdown of what’s required for tourists, long-term visitors and expats.

Tourists and short-term visitors (up to 4 weeks)

Foreign drivers with a valid licence from their home country can drive in Mauritius for up to four weeks from their date of arrival. No International Driving Permit (IDP) or licence conversion is required during this period.

If your licence is written in English or French, you're in the clear. If not, as with licences from Russia, Germany or China, it is advisable to carry a certified translation or an IDP to avoid complications with car rental agencies or during a roadside check.

How strict is this in practice?

The four-week rule is the official regulation, but enforcement is often lenient, especially for tourists. In many cases, visitors may drive beyond the four-week mark without issue, particularly if they have a valid foreign licence and are not involved in any traffic incidents. That said, leniency is not guaranteed. If you are stopped by police, or involved in an accident, you may be asked to show proof that you are still within the legal period or have taken steps to extend your driving rights.

While the system tends to be forgiving, it is best to plan as though the rule will be enforced.

Staying longer than 4 weeks?

If you are in Mauritius for more than a month, the official requirements apply:

• You must obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before arriving in Mauritius
  or
  
  

• Apply for a driving extension or licence conversion through the Traffic Branch of the Mauritius Police Force in Port Louis
  
  

Although enforcement of the four-week limit may vary, continuing to drive without proper documentation after this period is technically illegal. This may result in fines or legal issues if you are stopped or involved in an incident.

Converting to a Mauritian licence (for expats and long-term residents)

If you have moved to Mauritius for work, study, retirement or family reasons and plan to drive regularly, the safest legal route is to convert your foreign licence to a Mauritian one.

Requirements:

• A valid foreign driving licence
  
  

• A residence, occupation or dependent permit
  
  

• Passport and proof of address in Mauritius
  
  

• An attestation letter from your home country’s licensing authority confirming the licence’s validity (in some cases)
  
  

• A completed application form (available from the Traffic Branch)
  
  

• A processing fee of around Rs 1,500 - this must be cash
  
  

The conversion is handled at the Traffic Branch in Port Louis. Appointments are typically required.

Validity of a Mauritian driving licence

A standard Mauritian driving licence is valid for life. It does not have an expiry date and there is no requirement for renewal unless the licence is revoked, suspended or is a provisional motorcycle licence, which does expire.

If you plan to drive outside Mauritius, keep in mind that some countries may not accept licences with no expiry date. In these cases, you may need to apply for an IDP or convert your Mauritian licence abroad.

From the team at AutoCloud

Whether you are renting a car for a week or buying your first vehicle in Mauritius, AutoCloud is your trusted local platform. With options for rentals, purchases and verified dealer listings, we help both visitors and residents get on the road with confidence. Make sure your licence meets the local rules before driving. While enforcement may be relaxed, it is always better to be safe than sorry.