Sri Lanka has become a top travel destination, surpassing the 2 million tourist mark in 2024. Among the highest contributors to this milestone were visitors from India, reflecting the growing popularity of Sri Lanka among Indian travellers. However, one of the most common questions Indian tourists have is:
Can I drive in Sri Lanka with my Indian driving licence?
The short answer is NO—an Indian driving licence alone is not directly valid for driving in Sri Lanka. However, Indian tourists can drive in Sri Lanka by obtaining one of the following:
- Recognition Permit / Endorsement from the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) -or-
- Temporary Sri Lankan Driving Permit issued by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) of Sri Lanka
The Sri Lankan Motor Traffic Act only recognises International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Meanwhile, International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued by Indian authorities, such as the RTO or Indian Automobile Association, are based on the 1949 Geneva Convention.
Therefore, Indian tourists are advised to obtain one of the above permits before driving in Sri Lanka.
How can Indian tourists drive in Sri Lanka?
| Option | International Driving Permit (IDP) with AA Ceylon Endorsement | Temporary Sri Lankan Driving Permit issued by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) |
|---|---|---|
| Where to Get It? | Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC), Colombo | Department of Motor Traffic (DMT), Werahera |
| Processing Time | Issued over the counter Approx 30 minutes | 45 minutes to a few hours |
| Physical Presence Required? | No – A representative (rent a car company) can obtain the permit on behalf of the applicant. | Yes – The applicant must be physically present at the DMT office. |
| Operating Hours | Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 4 PM | Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 3 PM (Check Sri Lankan holiday calendar) |
| Documents Required |
|
|
| Additional Notes | In addition, if any of the above documents are not in English, you need a certified translation from your Embassy or an authorised body in your home country. | In addition, if any of the above documents are not in English, you need a certified translation from your Embassy or an authorised body in your home country. |
| More Information | AA Ceylon Website Google Maps Location | DMT Website Google Maps Location |
| Final Thoughts | ✅ More convenient – Can be obtained even before arriving in Sri Lanka through a rental car company. ✅ Located centrally in Colombo. ✅ Faster processing as it’s issued over the counter. | ❌ Less convenient – Requires in-person visit to DMT office. ❌ The DMT office is not in central Colombo (located in Werahera). ❌ Processing time can be longer if there is a crowd on the day. ✅ Cost-effective. |
Why Get a Temporary Permit or an IDP?
- Legal Compliance – Driving without a valid permit can result in fines or legal trouble.
- Car Rental Requirements – Most car rental companies in Sri Lanka require either an IDP or a temporary permit.
- Insurance Coverage – Many vehicle insurance policies only cover drivers with proper documentation.
Driving Rules in Sri Lanka for Indian Drivers
- Drive on the Left – Like India, Sri Lanka follows left-hand driving, making it easier for Indian drivers.
- Speed Limits – Generally, 40 km/h in cities, 60 km/h on provincial roads, and 100 km/h on expressways.
- Seat Belts & Traffic Rules – Strict adherence to traffic rules, including seat belts and speed limits, is essential.
- Avoiding Fines – Traffic violations can result in fines, so always follow local regulations.
For more details on driving rules and regulations in Sri Lanka, visit this guide on driving in Sri Lanka.
Looking for a Reliable Car Rental in Sri Lanka?
If you’re planning to drive in Sri Lanka, consider renting a vehicle from a trusted rental car company, known for its well-maintained fleet and excellent customer service.
Representatives from Malkey Rent A Car can also assist you in obtaining all the valid documentation required to drive legally in Sri Lanka as an Indian tourist. This includes helping you with the AA endorsement for your IDP or Indian driving license.
By ensuring you have the right documents, you can enjoy a smooth and legal driving experience during your visit to Sri Lanka!
