Driving licence requirements in the Maldives
What tourists, expats and locals need to legally drive — and what vehicle owners will ask for at pickup.
Last updated June 2026
Whether you're visiting for a week or settling in for longer, here's how driving licences work in the Maldives and what you'll need before renting a car or scooter.
For tourists and short-term visitors
You must hold a valid licence for the vehicle category you want to rent. The Maldives recognises driving licences from a number of approved countries for short visits, so many tourists can drive on their national licence for a limited period; others need an International Driving Permit alongside it, or a locally issued or endorsed licence. The rules and the approved-country list change over time — confirm with the official sources below before your trip, and ask your host if in doubt.
For expats and new residents
Residents holding a foreign licence can apply for a Maldivian driving licence based on it through the transport authority's services, and licences from many approved countries can be converted without a driving test. The exact process and documents depend on the issuing country — check the official government service linked below for the current procedure and fees.
For Maldivian licence holders
Bring your valid Maldivian licence with the right category — motorcycle for scooters and motorbikes, light vehicle for cars and vans. Owners on Dhihvaa will check it at pickup.
What owners expect at pickup
Hosts on Dhihvaa hand over their own vehicle, so expect them to look at your licence before giving you the keys — it protects both of you. Renting or lending to an unlicensed driver isn’t just risky; it can void protections and leave both parties liable in an accident.
Speed limits and basic rules
The Maldives drives on the left. Town-centre speed limits are around 30 km/h, with up to 50 km/h on the Sinamalé Bridge and similar highway links. Helmets are mandatory for riders on the bridges, link roads and highways — the Sinamalé Bridge and the Addu and Laamu link roads among them — and enforced by the Maldives Police Service.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive in the Maldives with my home country’s licence?
Often not on its own. The Maldives recognises licences from a list of approved countries for short visits; if yours isn't covered you'll generally need an International Driving Permit alongside it, or a locally issued or endorsed licence. Confirm the current rules via the official sources below before you travel.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for the Maldives?
If you hold a foreign licence and it isn’t endorsed locally, an IDP is the standard route. Get it from your home country’s motoring authority before you travel — IDPs can’t be issued after you arrive.
Can I rent a scooter without a licence?
No. A valid motorcycle licence is required, and owners on Dhihvaa check it at pickup. Riding unlicensed risks fines and voids the rental’s protections.
Where do I get a foreign licence recognised or converted?
Through the Maldivian transport authority's licensing services — many approved-country licences can even be converted without a driving test. Use the official government service linked below for the current forms, documents and fees.
Official sources
Driving laws and licence rules change — confirm with the official source before you travel.