The Mauritian government has implemented stricter road traffic laws, with eleven amendments to the Road Traffic (Amendment) Act 2026 coming into effect on September 30, 2026. The new laws aim to reduce road accidents and improve road safety. Minister of Land Transport, Osman Mahomed, announced the key provisions of the amendments at the soft launch of the Digital Driving License (DDL).
One of the key provisions of the new laws is the suspension of driving licenses for individuals caught driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances, even if no accident occurs. The driver will be taken to a rehabilitation center and may face a suspension of their license for two to six months. The police will also have the authority to seize the vehicle. Additionally, the laws introduce stricter penalties for various offenses, including driving without a license.
The new laws also introduce harsher penalties for causing death or injury to road users while driving without a license or under the influence of substances. A person causing the death of a road user while driving without a license can face a fine of Rs 200,000 to Rs 500,000 and up to five years in prison. In case of a repeat offense, the fine can increase to Rs 1 million. The laws also target "road rage," with offenders facing a fine of up to Rs 500,000 and 12 months in prison.
The new laws also focus on other road safety issues, including the use of modified exhausts and mobile phones while driving. Any modification to the original exhaust can result in a fine of Rs 10,000. The use of mobile phones or other communication devices while driving is also prohibited, with Minister Osman Mahomed warning that offenders will be penalized.
In addition to the stricter laws, the Mauritian government has also introduced a digital driving license, which is now available on Android and iOS devices through the KOREK application. The digital license is optional, but it is expected to make it easier for drivers to carry their licenses and reduce the need for physical copies. A transition period is in place until January 1, 2027, when the digital license will become the official document.
The digital driving license will be accepted as a valid document during traffic stops, alongside the physical license. However, photocopies of the license will no longer be accepted. Drivers are encouraged to verify their information and photo on the digital license and report any discrepancies. The government is also working on introducing online payment of fines, which will be available from October 30, 2026.
The introduction of the stricter road traffic laws and digital driving licenses is part of the Mauritian government's efforts to improve road safety and reduce accidents. The laws and regulations are expected to have a positive impact on road safety and help reduce the number of accidents on the country's roads.
Key points
- Stricter penalties for driving under the influence of substances and for causing death or injury to road users.
- Introduction of a digital driving license to make it easier for drivers to carry their licenses.
- Online payment of fines to be introduced from October 30, 2026.
