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World Driving Permit

🇲🇺 Do you need an IDP to drive in Mauritius?

IDP usually not required· 1949 Geneva Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Short answer

Usually not — most visitors can drive in Mauritius on a valid national driving licence during a short tourist stay. A certified translation can still make police and rental checks smoother, especially for non-Latin-script licences.

Driving in Mauritius: the rule explained

Mauritius drives on the LEFT and recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention. Tourists may drive on a valid home licence (English-language licences, e.g. UK, accepted) for short stays of up to about 4 weeks; an IDP is needed beyond that or for non-Latin-script licences. The UK FCDO confirms a UK photocard licence can be used directly.

Exemption: Valid English-language/Latin-script licences accepted for stays up to ~4 weeks without an IDP.

Renting a car in Mauritius

Hire companies often impose stricter rules than the law — a minimum age, a year's experience, and sometimes an IDP.

Motorcycles & scooters: A motorcycle-category licence and helmet are required to hire a scooter or motorbike.

What to carry when driving in Mauritius

  • Original driving license (physical card)
  • Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
  • Translation companion or certified translation of your license
  • Proof of insurance covering the destination
  • Certified translation/IDP if licence in non-Latin script

Check your exact trip

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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Mauritius: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Mauritius?
Usually not — most visitors can drive in Mauritius on a valid national driving licence during a short tourist stay. A certified translation can still make police and rental checks smoother, especially for non-Latin-script licences. Mauritius drives on the LEFT and recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention. Tourists may drive on a valid home licence (English-language licences, e.g. UK, accepted) for short stays of up to about 4 weeks; an IDP is needed beyond that or for non-Latin-script licences. The UK FCDO confirms a UK photocard licence can be used directly.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Mauritius?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Mauritius read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Mauritius?
Hire companies often impose stricter rules than the law — a minimum age, a year's experience, and sometimes an IDP.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? See how to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements for other countries