Mongolia is enormous, covering over 1.5 million square kilometers, with vast distances stretching 2,392 km from west to east and 1,259 km from north to south. While paved roads connect major provincial capitals, much of the country remains a network of rough, unpaved tracks crossing open steppe, desert, and mountains. Popular destinations are often far apart, making travel physically demanding for many visitors.
Yet these very challenges are what drive the growing popularity of self‑driving travel in Mongolia. For adventurous travelers, the country’s size and lack of restrictions offer something rare: complete freedom.
You can bring your own vehicle or rent almost anything locally 4×4 cars, motorcycles, or off‑road vehicles. Rental companies provide flexible options, from fully independent self‑drive rentals to vehicles with a driver, guide, cook, or mechanic. Some even offer motorcycle buy‑and‑ride programs, allowing travelers to purchase a bike, use it during their journey, and then sell or donate it locally afterward.
If you’re considering a self‑driving trip in Mongolia, it’s important to understand the driving regulations, required documents, and practical realities. Watching real travelers’ experiences can also help you decide whether self‑drive travel in Mongolia is right for you.
Driver’s license requirements for Self-driving in Mongolia
If you’re planning to drive in Mongolia and hold a valid driver’s license from a country that’s a member of the Vienna Convention, you’re in luck, you can obtain a Mongolian national driving license without needing to take a driving test. Here’s how you can get it:
- Complete the driver’s registration form: You’ll need to fill out this form in person at the service hall.
- Identity documentation: Bring your passport or identity card, along with a copy of it. If you’re using a foreign passport, you may also need to provide a reference.
- National driver’s license: Bring the original driver’s license from your home country, as well as a certified translation of it into Mongolian.
- Photos: You’ll need two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm).
- Medical certificate: A health check-up is required. Head to a district health center and complete the Health Checkup Form EMM-34B.
- Payment receipt: The fee for the driver’s license is 12,500 MNT. You’ll need to make the payment to the following bank account:
- Account Number: 100900012520
- Recipient Bank: State Finance Bank
- Recipient Organization: National Police Agency, Driver’s License Income
- Payment Reference: Your full name and registration number.
Note: If you’re a foreign citizen, you can drive in Mongolia for up to one year with your valid foreign license that complies with the Vienna Convention.
INSURANCE
In Mongolia, vehicle owners are required to have two types of motor vehicle insurance: Vehicle Insurance and Mandatory Liability Insurance for drivers.
All vehicles in our rental fleet come with accident insurance as standard. This means that if the vehicle is involved in an accident, the insurance covers 80% of the repair costs. The remaining 20% is borne by the renter. This is the standard structure under Mongolian vehicle insurance law and applies across the industry.
Simply put, our insurance is there to protect you from the bulk of any unexpected repair costs. However, we do ask that renters drive responsibly and take good care of the vehicle, as the 20% portion will be charged in the event of an accident.
SPEED LIMIT
According to Section 9.3 of the Mongolian Road Traffic Safety Rules, the typical maximum speed limit in urban areas is 60 km /h, 80 km/ h on provincial roads and 100 km/ h on highways. Drivers are required to obey these speed limits and not exceed them.
VEHICLE RENTAL SERVICES
With the growing trend of tourism, the demand for car rentals has significantly increased. In 2026, we are pleased to offer the following vehicles for rent:
- LC200
- LC250
- LC300
- 4X4 vehicles
We offer our car rental services with a support car /mechanic/ to accompany you on your journey. If you choose this option, our team will provide you with essential travel guidance, including gas stations, rest areas, accommodations, and the locations of attractions. Additionally, our mechanic will regularly examine the vehicles addressing any breakdowns or damage in a timely manner to ensure smooth travel.
In case of a vehicle breakdown, the mechanic will provide a replacement for the client to continue the journey, while promptly repairing the original vehicle to be back in service. This offers great convenience and peace of mind during your travels.
For 2026 pricing details or for car rental, please contact via email at info@mnomada.com, visit our Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mnomada_travel/ or through our website https://mnomada.com/en
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question 1: Do you only rent cars from Ulaanbaatar?
No, we can arrange for your rental car to be delivered anywhere in Mongolia at a time that works for you. If you’d like the car to be delivered from Ulaanbaatar to your preferred location, there will be additional charges for fuel, the driver’s salary, meals, and accommodation.
Question 2: Can I rent a car without a support vehicle or mechanic?
Yes, but we require an additional deposit in this case. If you’re renting three or more cars, we recommend having a support vehicle and mechanic along, especially for long trips. A mechanic can help prevent breakdowns, and if something does go wrong, the mechanic’s car can keep you on the move while your vehicle is being repaired.
Question 3: How do I get a driver’s license?
You’ll need an international driving license and a motorcycle license when you sign the contract. If you’re from a country that isn’t a signatory to the Vienna Convention, we can help you get a temporary Mongolian driving permit for vehicles. If you need a temporary permit, you’ll also have to take a 20-question test.
Question 4: What’s included in the car rental price?
Here’s what you can expect when you rent a car:
Included:
- 4X4 vehicle
- Vehicle insurance
- Camping table
- Camping chairs
Not Included:
- Fuel
- Travel expenses
- Rooftop tent
- Ground tent
- Sleeping bags
- Camping mattress
- Camping utensils
