Trying to navigate the rules for driving as a foreigner in Sri Lanka can feel confusing. You may have heard that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is enough, but Sri Lankan law requires all tourists to obtain a local temporary driving permit to drive legally. The good news is that the process has become much more convenient. This guide breaks down the latest 2025 rules, including a brand new on arrival service at Colombo Airport, to help you hit the road safely and legally.
Why You Need a Sri Lankan Temporary Driving Permit
Your home country’s driver’s license or an IDP alone is not valid for driving in Sri Lanka. To comply with local regulations, you must obtain a Sri Lankan issued permit, often called a “Recognition Permit” or “Temporary Driving License.”
Driving without this permit carries significant risks:
Legal Consequences: You could be fined by police.
Insurance Issues: In the event of an accident, your insurance (and any coverage from a rental company) will likely be invalidated.
Rental Problems: Reputable rental agencies will require the permit before handing over a vehicle.
Choose Your Application Method
1. Airport On-Arrival (Bandaranaike International Airport – BIA)
Best For: Most tourists renting cars or motorcycles.
Location: DMT counter in the Arrivals Hall, near the SPAR supermarket (operates 24/7).
Processing Time: Immediate.
Key Consideration: Not valid for three-wheelers (tuk-tuks). This is the fastest and most convenient option.
2. Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC)
Best For: Tourists with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP), or those needing a tuk-tuk permit.
Location: AAC Head Office at 40, Sir Mohamed Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 03.
Processing Time: A few hours to a few days.
Key Consideration: Requires an International Driving Permit (IDP). A foreign license alone is not accepted for new applications.
3. Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) – Werahera Office
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers applying with only a foreign license (no IDP).
Location: DMT Office, Department of Motor Traffic Rd, Boralesgamuwa (near Colombo).
Processing Time: Several hours.
Key Consideration: Can involve longer wait times and more procedural steps. This is the main government office for all permit types, including extensions.
Additional Useful Information
If you need to contact these offices, here are the key details:
DMT Airport Counter (24-hour line):
+94 70 304 5888DMT Main Office (Colombo):
+94 112 033333| Address: 341, Alvitigala Mawatha, Colombo 05DMT Werahera Office:
+94 112 518 926| Email:[email protected]Official Website for Updates: www.dmt.gov.lk
Documents You Need When You Apply
To ensure a smooth application, prepare the following original documents. Having both originals and photocopies is advisable.
Valid Passport: Must contain your valid Sri Lankan tourist visa.
Valid Foreign Driver’s License: Only a full license is accepted. Provisional, temporary, or learner’s licenses are not valid. It should be valid for at least one more year.
Translation or IDP: If your license is not in English, a certified English translation is mandatory. An International Driving Permit (IDP) can also serve this purpose and is highly recommended.
Passport-Sized Photos: Generally, two photos are required for other methods, but the airport counter may take a digital photo.
Payment: The fee at the airport is LKR 2,000 per month of validity. Payment can be made by cash (Sri Lankan Rupees) or card.
What Is the Process? (Step-by-Step at the Airport)
If you choose the on-arrival option, the process is straightforward:
Locate the Counter: After clearing immigration and collecting baggage, proceed to the DMT service counter in the arrivals hall. It is situated next to the SPAR supermarket and operates 24/7.
Submit Documents: Present your passport, visa, foreign driver’s license, and translation/IDP for validation.
Pay the Fee: Pay the required fee (LKR 2,000 per month) for your desired validity period. You can request a permit for 1 to 5 months.
Receive Your Permit: Once processed, you will receive your official Temporary Driving License. You can then legally drive in Sri Lanka.
How Long Is the Temporary Driving License Valid?
The Temporary Driving License obtained at the airport can be issued for a period of 1 to 5 months, based on your request and payment of the corresponding fee. If you need to stay and drive longer, you can apply for an extension at the main DMT office in Werahera.
This permit is only for tourists on a tourist visa and is not available to dual citizens of Sri Lanka. It covers light private vehicles (cars, SUVs) and motorcycles, but excludes three wheelers (tuk-tuks) and all heavy vehicles. Remember, you must always carry your permit along with your original foreign license and passport/visa while driving.