911 in Uruguay: Emergency numbers & what to do when things go wrong
If something goes wrong in Uruguay, the number to remember is 911 (or 02911 outside Montevideo) — it covers police, fire, and ambulance in one call. Save that, plus your embassy's number, before you land, and you'll be set for almost any situation.
What's the main emergency number in Uruguay?
Dial 911 in Montevideo or 02911 outside the capital for combined police, fire, and ambulance response. From a mobile phone, 112 also reaches emergency services. If you need a specific service directly: public health ambulance is 105, firefighters 104, and police emergency 108.
Are there other numbers for ambulances or accidents?
Yes. Private ambulance services can be reached at 133 (SUAT), 147 (UCM), or 159 (SEMM); in Montevideo these are staffed with a medical doctor for advanced treatment en route to hospital. Medical care in Uruguay is generally adequate and comparable to U.S. standards, though quality may be lower in the interior than in Montevideo and other larger cities.
If you're in a traffic accident with injuries, stay where you are until police arrive, call 911 immediately, and notify your rental company if you're driving a rental car. For roadside assistance, contact the Automobile Club of Uruguay at 1707 or "Car Up" at 2628-1555. For traffic police on national routes, call 1954.
What should I do if I lose my passport or documents?
First, report the loss or theft to local police at 911 and get a police report — this is essential no matter your nationality. Australian travelers should also notify the Australian Government. U.S. citizens should contact the U.S. Embassy in Montevideo at +(598) 1770-2000 or email MontevideoACS@state.gov.
Uruguay's own Ministry of Foreign Relations also offers help: for lost documents or consular matters, the Dirección de Asuntos Consulares can be reached at (+598) 2902 1010, ext. 76234–76236 (Monday–Friday), located at Colonia 1206. The Oficina de Asistencia al Compatriota, at Cuareim 1384, is available at (+598) 2902 1010, ext. 76242–76244 or 76294, Monday–Friday 10:00–15:00, for assistance to residents and visitors.
How do I contact my embassy or consular services?
The U.S. Embassy in Montevideo can be reached at +(598) 1770-2000 during business hours (0800–1730) and after-hours for emergencies. General consular inquiries with Uruguay's Foreign Ministry can be made Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:00, at +(598) 2902 1010, with a dedicated emergency line — (598) 98 051 052 — for weekends and holidays.
For travelers wanting to stay connected to make these calls easily while abroad, having reliable mobile data can help — see general travel info for Uruguay.
FAQ
What's the single easiest number to remember in an emergency? 911 in Montevideo, 02911 elsewhere, or 112 from a mobile — all reach combined police, fire, and ambulance services.
Do I need a police report if my documents are stolen? Yes — always get a police report when reporting a crime, then contact your embassy or consulate for next steps.
Is medical care reliable throughout Uruguay? Care is generally adequate and comparable to U.S. standards, but quality can be lower in the interior than in Montevideo and other major cities.
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