International Driving Permit for Mongolia
Mongolia drives on the right-hand side of the road, but much of the country is open steppe where paved roads quickly give way to dirt tracks across vast, unmarked terrain. Outside Ulaanbaatar, navigation often relies on GPS and judgement rather than signposts, and long distances between settlements mean fuel and water should be planned carefully. Because the local licence uses Cyrillic script, carrying an IDP alongside your national licence is essential.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Mongolia?
An International Driving Permit is required to drive in Mongolia, since the national licence is issued in Cyrillic and authorities expect foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their home licence.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Asia
- IDP
- Required
Local languages: Mongolian
Driving in Mongolia: key facts
- Beyond the capital, a large share of routes are unpaved tracks, and a 4x4 vehicle is strongly advised for cross-country travel.
- Distances between towns and fuel stops can be enormous, so carrying extra fuel, water and supplies is standard practice.
- Mongolia enforces a strict, near-zero blood alcohol limit for drivers.
How to get your IDP for Mongolia
Getting your International Driving Permit for Mongolia takes only a few minutes:
- 1Apply online
Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.
- 2Upload your documents
Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.
- 3Get your IDP instantly
Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Mongolia.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Mongolia
Do I need an IDP to drive in Mongolia?
Yes, an IDP is required for foreign drivers because the Mongolian licence is in Cyrillic and authorities expect an internationally recognised translation of your home licence.
Can I rent a car in Mongolia with a foreign licence?
Yes, but you should present your valid foreign licence together with an IDP, and many travellers choose a 4x4 or a guided tour given the demanding off-road conditions.
What side of the road does Mongolia drive on?
Mongolia drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Mongolia?
The minimum driving age is 18, though rental companies often require drivers to be older and experienced, particularly for off-road or long-distance trips.
Other countries in Asia
International Driving Permit for Mongolia
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