🚙 Driving Laws & Road Conditions in Mongolia (2025 Edition)

What to Expect When Driving in Mongolia

Driving in Mongolia is unlike anywhere else in the world. From paved highways to dirt tracks that disappear into the horizon, Mongolia offers both challenge and freedom for adventurous travelers. Whether you’re exploring the Gobi Desert, central steppes, or remote mountain regions, this 2025 guide from Gobi.Rent covers the laws, conditions, and tips you need for a safe and successful self-drive tour.

Driving Laws in Mongolia (2025 Update)

If you’re planning to rent a 4×4 and explore Mongolia independently, it’s essential to know the rules of the road. Here are the key laws as of 2025:

1. License Requirements

• A valid driver’s license from your home country is required and should be carried with the passport that shows the immigration stamp (proving you are a tourist).

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended and may be requested by police at checkpoints but not mandatory for most nationalities.

2. Driving Side

• Mongolians drive on the right-hand side of the road.

• Note: Most imported cars are right-hand drive, so pay extra attention when overtaking.

3. Speed Limits

• Cities & towns: 30–60 km/h

• Paved roads: 80–100 km/h

• Dirt roads/off-road: Adjust based on conditions (often <50 km/h)

• Beware to never speed at night! Animals are often resting right next to the road due to the wind protection and water holes near the elevated road. They often suddenly cross the road which can cause great danger while driving and especially when one vehicle overtakes another as it often can not foresee the sudden danger covered by the vehicle in front while driving at increased speed.

4. Seat Belts

• Mandatory for all passengers, front and rear.

5. Alcohol

• Zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Breathalyzer checks are common at police checkpoints.

6. Police Checkpoints

• Regular checkpoints exist between provinces. Always carry:

  • Passport

  • Driver’s license + IDP

  • Vehicle rental documents

Road Conditions in Mongolia

Mongolia has two types of roads: paved highways (usually connecting major cities) and unpaved tracks (most everywhere else). Here’s what to expect:

Paved Roads

• Found between Ulaanbaatar and cities like Dalanzadgad, Darkhan, and Erdenet.

• Conditions vary: Some stretches are smooth, others have potholes and poor drainage.

• Paved doesn’t always mean safe—watch out for free-roaming livestock, which often cross roads unexpectedly.

Dirt Tracks & Off-Road Routes

• 80% of Mongolia’s road network is unpaved.

• Routes may split into multiple tracks—use GPS or offline maps (Gobi.Rent provides both).

• River crossings and steep passes are common. Our vehicles come with recovery gear and rooftop tents for remote overnights.

Want ideas for where to stop en route? Check out our guide to Getting to the Gobi Desert.

Fuel and Navigation Tips

• Fuel stations are only available in major towns. Always refill whenever possible and carry the provided jerrycan.

• Navigation apps like Maps.me and OSMAnd work best offline—download maps in Ulaanbaatar before departure.

• Avoid driving at night due to lack of lighting and road hazards.

What Gobi.Rent Provides

When you rent a Land Cruiser from Gobi.Rent, you get more than just a vehicle. Every rental includes:

• Toyota Land Cruiser 76 or 79 (2023 models)

• Rooftop tent + full camping setup

• Air compressor, sand boards, and off-road recovery gear

• GPS setup + offline maps

• Printed road atlas & compass

• 24/7 support

Whether you’re a seasoned overlander or a first-time explorer, we’ve got you covered.

Self-Drive vs. Guided Tours

Curious whether self-driving is the right option for you? Read our article on Why a Self-Drive Tour Beats a Guided Tour in Mongolia to understand the advantages of independent travel.

Final Tips for Driving in Mongolia (2025)

• Don’t trust road signs—bring a backup navigation method

• Expect slow progress—you’re not in a rush; enjoy the scenery!

• Always inform someone of your route if traveling alone

• Carry snacks, water, and emergency cash

• Enjoy the journey—driving in Mongolia is part of the adventure

Ready to Hit the Road?

Driving in Mongolia is both wild and wonderful—as long as you’re prepared. At Gobi.Rent, we specialize in rugged 4×4 self-drive rentals built for Mongolia’s extreme landscapes.

Book your vehicle today and contact us to start planning your road trip.