Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has decided to impose a fine of USD650 for using an invalid driving license for sea vessels.
The transport ministry formulated regulations to respond to driving licenses of local vessels operating in Maldivian waters. As such, the transport ministry is required to compile a register of drivers of local vessels. Under the new regulations, it is prohibited to operate a seagoing vessel with an expired license, a license can only be issued to individuals who have attained the age of 18, and a temporary license may be issued to tourists visiting the Maldives as determined by the transport ministry based on the license issued in a foreign country.
The transport ministry stated that any individual who violates these regulations will have their license withheld for a period between 48 hours to one month. In addition, foreigners can apply for a license to operate in Maldivian waters on presentation of a copy of a water sports professional category work permit, work visa, or residence permit issued stating that the individual is authorised to practice water sports in the Maldives.
Additionally, if an individual drives a sea vessel while their license is withheld for any reason, they will be fined USD97 for the first time, a fine of USD195 will be imposed for the second time, and USD325 for each repeated offense. The regulations also state that a case can be filed with the police for prosecution, according to the transport ministry.