How do I get an international driver's license in Mongolia?

Before I discuss how to get one, you need to know first what an IDP is. The official name of the document that’s approved by the United Nations as per the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic is called the International Driving Permit (IDP).

A valid international driving permit is a document that will translate your valid driver’s licence, whether or not it is already in English, into 12 of the widely used languages worldwide. It allows you to drive in any foreign country worldwide such as the following countries:

• Japan
• Canada
• Australia
• Malaysia
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Namibia
• Hong Kong
• Italy
• Spain
• Philippines
• Ireland
• Cyprus
• Pakistan
• United Kingdom
• Malta
• Lesotho
• Botswana
• and more

Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) is relatively easy. You only need your valid driver’s license, credit card, a passport-sized photo, and more.

If you intend to stay in the country for more than three months, you’ll have to apply for a Mongolian Driver’s License.

How old do you have to be to drive in Mongolia?

The minimum age to drive in the country is 18 years old. However, for a foreign driver, there is a required age which is allowed to rent a motor vehicle from car rental companies.

The spectacular landscapes and wildlife in Mongolia never cease to amaze travelers from different parts of the world. Driving in the country is an exciting adventure that you wouldn’t want to miss. You should always have your International Driver’s Permit in Mongolia, updated vehicle registration, native driver’s license, and passport. Once completed, you can start your tour and see the amazing rock formations, the Bactrian camels, and the endless desert. Mongolia will surely fill your heart's desire.

Mongolians are firm with their traffic rules and regulations, so ensure before you travel that you secure an international driver’s license for the country online. Include Mongolia on your bucket list, and experience sleeping in a ger, horse-riding in the mountains, drinking their local brew, Ayrag, and joining the annual Naadam festival. You should add getting an international driver’s license for the country from our website to your travel list.

Ulaanbaatar

Hailed as the world’s coldest capital city, you will be mesmerized by the wonderful tourist spots you’ll discover in Ulaanbaatar. You can take photos of the tallest statue of Avalokiteśvara in the Gandantegchinlen Monastery, then watch as locals perform the Mongol Biyelgee in the Mongolian State Academic Theatre of Opera. For your peace of mind, don’t forget to bring your International Driving Permit for Mongolia. Forms are available online if you haven’t applied for an IDP yet.

Gobi Desert

Surrounded by plateaus, grasslands, mountains, and beautiful rock formations, the Gobi Desert is one of Mongolia's most beautiful tourist destinations. It covers parts of Northeastern China and Southern Mongolia, making it the largest desert in Asia. Don’t miss its magical appearance and drive with an international driving permit in Mongolia. A PDF is available, but the International Driver’s Association offers express shipping for your convenience.

Flaming Cliffs

By the name itself, Flaming Cliffs glow like fire during the evening. It would look like the sun is setting there. In the 1920s, in these fiery red cliffs, the first dinosaur eggs were discovered. Fossils of Velociraptor and Protoceratops, along with other eutherian mammals, were also found. Situated just within the Gobi Desert, experience the wonderful view it yields by bringing your international driving license for Mongolia and updated vehicle registration, including your local driving licence all the time.

Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex

One of the world’s largest equestrian statues is Genghis Khan's sculpture in Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex. When driving, always bring your original driver’s license and international driver’s license for Mongolia. Online, you will see that you can go up the statue using an elevator that passes through the horse. You’ll witness the panoramic view of the place, find souvenir shops, cafés, and museums that show Mongolia’s history.

To have peace of mind when driving in Mongolia, it's essential to know and follow the Mongolian driving rules. Simple understanding can make your journey smoother.

Overtaking is against the law

Overtaking is prohibited in the country. Not only is it dangerous for people and animals, but it can also be the main cause of vehicle and road destruction. The government forbids foreign and local drivers to do overtaking on level crossings, not-regulated intersections, and pedestrian crossings. Always adhere to this rule and give way to passing pedestrians and cars.

Wear safety belts at all time

Mongolia has a national seat belt law. Drivers and all passengers must use safety belts at all times to prevent falling and keep everyone safe during sudden stops.

Follow Traffic Road Signs

The Mongolian government wants foreigners and locals to consistently obey road rules to avoid accidents and casualties. By following the traffic road signs in the country, you show respect to the locals and keep away from problems with the authorities.