Driving licence: exchanging a foreign licence
Once resident, exchange your foreign licence for a Mauritian one with the police.
Know when to exchange
Residents must exchange their foreign licence for a Mauritian one; the period usually quoted is one year after taking up residence to be confirmed with the police. Driving beyond that can cause problems at a check or with an insurance claim.
Who handles it?
Driving licences are handled by the Police (Traffic Branch / licence office, Line Barracks in Port Louis), not the NLTA, which deals with vehicles (current address and opening hours to be confirmed).
Gather the documents
Typically: a request letter, original licence and copy, passport and residence permit, proof of address, two passport photos, and a certificate from your home country confirming the licence is valid (list to be confirmed).
Apply in person
You submit the file in person; you are then called back to sign and pay the fee, and later to collect the licence. Allow several weeks to be confirmed.
Heavy vehicles and special cases
Heavy-vehicle categories are generally not exchanged automatically and may require a test in Mauritius to be confirmed. If your licence is not recognised, you will need to take the Mauritian test (learner licence, then exam).
Afterwards: points and rules
The Mauritian licence works with a penalty-points system. Carry your licence when driving and tell your insurer once the exchange is done.