Guides · Mauritania

Driving licence renewal in Mauritania

Written from published rules on 26 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN) - General Directorate of National Security. Rules here vary, so check carefully.

Renewing a driving licence in Mauritania generally involves applying to the Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN) or its regional offices. The process typically requires submitting an application, providing necessary documents, and undergoing a medical examination if required.

Your timing

It is advisable for individuals to begin the renewal process several weeks before their current licence expires. This allows ample time for gathering documents, scheduling any required medical examinations, and accounting for potential processing times at the administrative offices.

Start 30 days ahead

This lead time accounts for potential appointment waiting times, the duration of the medical examination process, and the administrative processing time for the new licence.

The process

  1. 1Verify the specific requirements and current procedures for licence renewal with the DGSN or its relevant department.
  2. 2Undergo a medical examination by an approved physician to obtain a medical certificate of fitness to drive, if required by current regulations.
  3. 3Gather all necessary identification documents, proof of residence, and the expiring driving licence.
  4. 4Complete the official application form for driving licence renewal.
  5. 5Submit the application, all required documents, and pay the applicable renewal fee at the designated DGSN office or its regional branches.
  6. 6Await notification or instructions for collecting the new driving licence.

What to bring

  • Current Mauritanian driving licence
  • National identity card or passport
  • Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, certificate of residence)
  • Medical certificate of fitness to drive (from an approved doctor, if required)
  • Passport-sized photographs (quantity to be confirmed with the authority)
  • Completed application form for renewal

Who handles it

Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN) - General Directorate of National Security

The exact fee for renewing a driving licence should be confirmed directly with the Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN) or its administrative offices, as fees can be subject to change.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure all submitted documents are valid and up-to-date, especially the national identity card and proof of residence.
  • Confirm the specific requirements for the medical certificate, including the type of doctor and validity period.
  • Verify the correct DGSN office or branch for submission, as procedures might vary regionally.
  • Be aware that processing times can fluctuate, so initiating the renewal well in advance is recommended.

Sources

This guide is based on one official source.

Don't rely on remembering

Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.

Track my Driving licence