Whether you are planning to wind through the misty mountains of Ella or cruise down the coastlines of Galle; having your own vehicle really does make a difference. Imagine being able to stop wherever the scenery calls for it, having the time and opportunity to explore unbeaten paths. But before you get on the road in Sri Lanka, there is a major thing you have to do: obtain a Temporary Driving Permit.
Can foreigners drive in Sri Lanka?
Absolutely, yes! But here’s the kicker—a foreign driving license alone won’t cut it in Sri Lanka. Unlike many countries, Sri Lankan laws will penalize those who drive with only an International Driving License if caught and there will be adverse effects and it is always better to be on the safer side by having a proper permit with you.
Why bother with a Temporary Driving Permit?
You will perhaps ask, “Do I need this?” The answer is yes if you are thinking of driving on your own on the roads. Sri Lanka is dotted with police checkpoints along major highways and around tourist hot spots. You do not want to drive without the proper permit lest you fall into trouble, incurring heavy fines or worse. Having a temporary permit not only means you are not going to break the law, but it will also ensure a stress-free journey where you can genuinely soak up the sights and sounds that this beautiful island has in store.
How to get your Temporary Driving Permit
You have two options.
1. Obtain a temporary Sri Lankan driving permit at the Department of Motor Traffic
2. Get your International Driving Permit (IDP) endorsed by the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka (AA)
Obtain a temporary Sri Lankan driving permit at the Department of Motor Traffic
Obtaining a Temporary Driving Permit in Sri Lanka is far easier than one might think. It literally takes a bit of preparation and a visit to the correct place: the Department of Motor Traffic in Werahera, just outside Colombo. Remember, you have to be above 18 years of age too.
Herein is your step-by-step guide
- Gather your documents
Passport: Original with a photocopy of the photo page.
Sri Lankan Visa: You will need a duplicate of your visa stamp.
Home country Driving License: Original with a photocopy (If your license is not in English, a translation by the respective embassy or any authority in the country of origin is required.)
Passport-sized photos: Two will do, but you can never have extra ones.
Alert: Take extra photocopies with you. Also, only cash payments are accepted inside. - Go to the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT)
Head to Hall ‘H’ at the DMT complex. This is where all foreign license conversions and temporary driving permits are processed.
Upon reaching, inform the security at the door about your purpose—they’ll guide you to the right counter. They will also check your documents.
Obtain a token as well and keep it safe.
The whole process may take 45 minutes, 2 hours or even more than that depending on the crowd. So, have a water bottle and a small snack with you in case or else you have a canteen where you can buy your snack or drink. - Document verification and payment
First, they will check and verify your documents.
Then you will have to register your fingerprints, have your photo taken and e-sign a form. These will be printed and handed over for your next steps.
Then your documents will be scanned. Ensure that you have all the copies with you, as leaving the complex to procure those may cost you valuable time.
After that, pay 1000 LKR for the permit at the payment counter.
If successful without any issues, you will get the final approval and your temporary driving permit. Check it before you leave the premises. - Drive off with confidence
You can use your permit-a simple piece of paper, that’s valid for 30 days. If you are planning to renew it, it should be done the moment the validity is over.
Recent developments and what to expect
The country has certainly taken quite a few steps to make things easier for tourists, realizing how important the tourism industry is to the economy. Not so many years ago, things were pretty tricky to get a temporary driving permit. Confusing instructions and long lines made the process really a chore. But now, with more organized counters and streamlined procedures in the DMT, the process is much quicker and user-friendly.
The DMT has extended its working hours during peak tourist seasons and added staff to cope with the demand. This is a vast improvement compared to just a few years ago and makes it easier than ever for travellers like you to get on the road.
Head to the Department of Motor Traffic website (https://www.motortraffic.gov.lk/) for detailed instructions.
Get your International Driving Permit (IDP) endorsed by the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka (AA)
If you have a valid IDP, you can also head to the Automobile Association (AA) office in Colombo to get your IDP endorsed. The office is open Monday-Friday, 9 AM-4 PM. It may cost between LKR 7,000 – LKR 8,000, though fees are subject to change.
To sum up, with a Temporary Driving Permit or getting your IDP endorsed by AAA, you can freely explore this wonderful country. So, what are you waiting for? Get your permit or endorsement, and take off into your very own adventure. And if you need any assistance, we are more than happy to assist you.
Now that you are ready to rent a vehicle, check out TukTuk Pisso (https://www.tuktukpisso.com) for the perfect ride for your journey.
