Destinations / Mauritius
Driving in Mauritius as a visitor
Often optional, depending on your licence and rental company. Mauritius drives on the left; visitors can use a valid licence for short stays, with an IDP advised for non-Latin-script holders.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What Mauritius expects
| Driving document | Depends on licence issuer, script and rental policy |
|---|---|
| Convention format | 1968 Vienna |
| Valid for | Up to 3 years |
| Drives on the | Left |
| Emergency number | 999 or 112 (police), 114 (ambulance) |
| Top speed limit | 110 km/h on the M1/M2 motorways |
What the rental desk will ask you for
| Your own licence | The original card. A photo of it, or a photocopy, gets turned away. |
|---|---|
| Licence translation | Check the desk policy for your issuing country and licence script. A translation accompanies the licence and never replaces an official permit. |
| Booklet format they know | 1968 Vienna |
| Minimum age | 18. Under 25 usually pays a young-driver surcharge. |
| Deposit | A credit card in the driver's name. The hold is taken in MUR. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Right of way | Narrow roads and frequent roundabouts. |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | 0.05% alcohol limit. |
| Seatbelts | Seatbelts mandatory. |
On the road in Mauritius
At the pump
Petrol (Mogas/unleaded) and diesel (gasoil) are sold at all stations, some open 24/7; pumps are attended and cards are widely accepted. Indicative prices are around Rs 70+/L for petrol and slightly less for diesel.
After a crash
Call 999 (police/ambulance) or 112; reporting is required where there is injury or significant damage. Photograph the scene, exchange details, and only move vehicles if they pose a danger to other traffic while awaiting police.
Sources: tyremap.com · rhinocarhire.com · landtransport.govmu.org · maki-car-rental.com
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in Mauritius?
Often optional, depending on your licence and rental company. Mauritius drives on the left; visitors can use a valid licence for short stays, with an IDP advised for non-Latin-script holders.
Which translation format is used for Mauritius?
Mauritius uses the 1968 Vienna convention format. A Vialy translation is prepared in that format but is not a government-issued permit.
Will a rental desk in Mauritius ask for a translation?
Desks accept many foreign licences; an IDP helps non-Latin-script drivers.
How fast can Vialy prepare one for Mauritius?
The exact delivery moment is quoted before you pay, 30 minutes as standard and 5 with Express.
Also in Africa
Driving on to another country on the same trip? Each page states what that destination expects.