The Maldivian government has introduced a new policy requiring foreign nationals to pass a driving assessment before being granted a driving licence in the country.
Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen announced the change during a press conference held at the President’s Office, stating that the new measure replaces a previously relaxed policy that allowed foreign licence holders to drive without undergoing local testing.
Under the new regulation, foreign nationals must now complete the same driving assessment as Maldivians in order to obtain a local licence. The validity of the licence issued will also be limited to the duration of their original foreign licence, bringing an end to the previous practice of issuing local licences with extended validity — sometimes up to 10 years — regardless of a foreigner’s passport or licence expiration date.
“Driving in Malé is very different from driving in many other countries. The narrow roads and unique driving conditions here require specific techniques. That’s why we believe it is important for all drivers, regardless of where they come from, to pass a proper assessment before getting a licence,” said Minister Ameen.
Previously, the policy allowed foreigners holding licences from over 20 countries recognised by the Ministry of Transport to obtain a local driving licence without any testing or assessment. These licences were often issued with long-term validity, raising concerns over road safety and regulatory oversight.
With the updated policy now in effect, the government aims to standardise the licensing process and enhance road safety across the country, especially in densely populated urban areas like the capital city.
