In short: Foreign visitors CAN legally drive in Sri Lanka, but you must hold one of the following:
- An IDP issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention -or-
- An IDP issued under either the 1949 or 1962 Convention duly endorsed by the Automobile Association (AA) Ceylon -or-
- A Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) temporary licence
Source: Department of Motor Traffic (DMT), Automobile Association (AA) Ceylon & Daily Mirror (Aug 3 2025).
Before we start…
As someone who has spent countless weekends road-tripping across Sri Lanka, I can assure you that every bend in the road has a story to tell. There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road, the sound of waves from the driver’s seat, and the excitement of discovering places that don’t always feature in the travel guides.
However, before you set off to explore this beautiful island behind the wheel, it’s crucial to ensure you have the right driving permit in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re here for a short holiday or an extended stay, knowing how to obtain a valid Sri Lankan driving permit will help you travel safely, legally, and with complete peace of mind.
Documents you must have
- Full, valid home country driving licence (no learner or probationary licences).
- Valid passport.
- Valid visa.
- Optionally, an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Options for Driving Legally in Sri Lanka
Option 1: An IDP Issued Under the 1968 Vienna Convention
Since the Sri Lankan Motor Traffic Act only recognises International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, if you possess an IDP issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention, you can drive in Sri Lanka without any additional endorsements.
- Pros: No local validation required, drive legally upon arrival.
- Cons: Only valid if the IDP is issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention.
Source: DMT Website: Motor Traffic (Amendment) Act, No. 8 of 2009
Option 2: An IDP endorsed by AA Ceylon
If you hold an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention or the 1926 Paris Convention, you can visit the Automobile Association (AA) Ceylon in Colombo to obtain an endorsement, making it valid for driving in Sri Lanka.
Pro-tip: AA Ceylon does not require your presence, so a representative can obtain the endorsement on your behalf, making this option the most convenient for many travellers.
- Pros: Quick, representative can handle it for you.
- Cons: Slightly higher fees; IDP required.
🌐 Source: Automobile Association (AA) Website
📍Directions to the AA Ceylon Office in Colombo on Google Maps
📞 Phone: +94 112 421 528
Option 3: Temporary Licence Issued by the DMT at the Werahera Office
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not the only option for legally driving in Sri Lanka. As per Section 132 of the Motor Traffic Act, the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) in Werahera can issue a temporary driving licence based on your home-country licence. You must apply in person, and the processing time can take a few hours.
- Pros: No IDP required.
- Cons: Lengthier process; necessitates travel to Werahera (45 mins out of Colombo).
🌐 Source: DMT Website: Internal Circular 2022/14
📍Directions to the DMT Office in Werahera on Google Maps
📞 Phone: +94 112 518 926 / +94 112 518 950
Option 4: Temporary Licence Issued by the DMT at the Airport On Arrival [New in 2025]
A new 24/7 branch of the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) has opened at the arrivals terminal of Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake, Sri Lanka, and it is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Foreign visitors can now obtain a temporary driving licence upon arrival, based on their home country driving licence. This service is perfect for those who wish to start driving immediately after landing.
- Pros: The ability to drive legally upon arrival.
- Cons: Not applicable for all vehicle categories.
🌐 Source: Sri Lankan Airport and Aviation Services Website
📍Located at the Arrival Walkway (next to the SPAR supermarket) at BIA
📞 Phone: +94 112 469 300 (General) / +94 703 045 888 (WhatsApp) / +94 703 045 889 (WhatsApp)
📧 E-mail: [email protected]
Summary of all the options
| Option | 1968 Vienna Convention IDP | IDP Endorsed by AA Ceylon | Temporary License by DMT (Werahera) | Temporary License by DMT (Airport) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issuer | Home Country AA | Automobile Association Ceylon | Department of Motor Traffic | Department of Motor Traffic |
| Location | – | Colombo | Werahera | Airport |
| Address | – | 40, Sir Mohamed Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 03. | Department of Motor Traffic (RMV), Horana Road, Werahera, Boralesgamuwa. | Arrival Terminal of Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Katunayake. |
| Operating Hours | – | Mon – Fri* 8:30am – 3:30pm | Mon – Fri* 8:30am – 3:30pm | 24/7 Shift-based multilingual operation |
| Approx Cost | – | LKR 8,500/- for 180 days | LKR 15,000/- for 30 days | LKR 15,000/- for 30 days |
| Processing Time | – | Over the counter Approx 30-60 mins | Depends on the crowd From 30 mins to several hours | Over the counter Approx 15-30 mins |
| Requirements | International Driving Permit issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention |
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| Validity | Duration of 1968 IDP | Max. 6 months | Max. 12 months | Max. 12 months |
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*Check Sri Lankan Public Holidays
Before visiting the AA Ceylon office or the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) in Werahera, it’s worth checking the Sri Lankan holiday calendar to avoid unexpected closures. Both offices operate Monday to Friday, but they close on public and mercantile holidays. Many travellers only realise this after making the trip.
The DMT branch at Bandaranaike International Airport, however, is open 24/7, making it one of the most convenient options.
Revision of Fees for Temporary Driving Licenses Issued by the DMT
According to the latest government gazette published on 17th November by the Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, Bimal Rathnayake, the fees for temporary driving licenses issued by the DMT to foreign nationals have been increased from LKR 2,000 to LKR 15,000 for the first month.
The revised fees for issuing a temporary driving license to a visitor other than a citizen of Sri Lanka are as follows, based on the validity of the license.
| Temporary License Validity Period | Revised Fee |
|---|---|
| For a period of 1 month | LKR 15,000/- |
| For a period of more than 1 month and up to 2 months | LKR 21,000/- |
| For a period of more than 2 months and up to 6 months | LKR 30,000/- |
| For a period of more than 6 months and up to 12 months | LKR 45,000/- |
Double-Check Your Driving Licence
Before heading out to explore Sri Lanka’s roads, it’s worth taking a moment to double-check your driving licence as this is where many visitors get caught out. A few things to keep in mind before applying for your temporary driving permit or International Driving Permit (IDP):
✅ Only full, valid driving licences are accepted.
❌ Learner, provisional, probationary, or temporary licences won’t be recognised.
🌍 The licence must be in English — if it isn’t, an official English translation is required.
📅 Your licence should be valid for at least one year from the date of application.
Many travellers overlook one of these details and face delays at the counter, so checking everything in advance can save time and stress when you arrive.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Getting a Driving Permit in Sri Lanka
Whether you’re planning a quick holiday or an extended stay, having the correct driving documentation is essential for anyone looking to drive legally in Sri Lanka. Here’s why securing a recognised permit matters:
✅ Legal Compliance
Driving without a valid permit — whether it’s a Temporary Sri Lankan Driving Licence or an endorsed International Driving Permit (IDP) — can result in fines, legal penalties, or even issues with law enforcement.
✅ Required by Car Rental Companies
Most reputable car rental providers in Sri Lanka, require drivers to present a recognised and valid permit before releasing a vehicle. No permit, no keys.
✅ Insurance Coverage
Many vehicle insurance policies in Sri Lanka only cover drivers who hold a valid, legally recognised driving licence or permit. Without this, you may not be covered in case of an accident or damage.
Essential Driving Rules and Tips for Foreign Drivers in Sri Lanka
While driving in Sri Lanka can be a scenic and enjoyable experience, it’s important to stay informed and follow local road laws. Here are some key rules to keep in mind:
- Drive on the Left: Vehicles in Sri Lanka drive on the left-hand side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right.
- Speed Limits:
- 40 km/h in urban areas
- 60 km/h on provincial or rural roads
- 100 km/h on expressways
- Traffic Rules & Safety:
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited.
- Speeding, illegal overtaking, and driving under the influence can result in heavy fines or legal consequences.
- Be Prepared for Road Checks:
- Police checkpoints are common.
- Always carry your driving permit, passport, and vehicle rental documents when driving. For more information on local driving laws, check out this guide to driving in Sri Lanka.
Final Notes: Which Option Is Right for You?
- If you have an IDP issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention, you can drive in Sri Lanka without any other documents.
- If you already have any other IDP, go for the AA Ceylon endorsement, it’s quicker, more convenient and the cheapest option to drive in Sri Lanka.
- If you don’t have an IDP, your only legal route is to obtain a Temporary Driving Licence from the DMT counter at the Airport on arrival or once you are in the country from the DMT Werahera office.
- Partnering with a reputable rental company can simplify the process. Many will handle the paperwork on your behalf.
By choosing the right option and preparing your documents in advance, you can enjoy a hassle-free driving experience during your stay in Sri Lanka.
Sources & verification
- Motor Traffic Act of Sri Lanka, No. 8 of 2009
- Internal Circular of the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) 2022/14
- Automobile Association of Ceylon (AA Ceylon)
- Services Section of the Sri Lanka Airport and Aviation Website
- News Release on the Sri Lanka Airport and Aviation Website (2 Aug 2025)
- News Release on Daily Mirror (5 Aug 2025)
- News Release on Ada Derana (20 Nov 2025)
Checklist before you drive in Sri Lanka
✅ Driving permit (DMT Temporary License or IDP endorsed by AA Ceylon)
✅ Insuarance certificate
✅ Home country driving license
Need help arranging your permit? Malkey Rent A Car can guide you through the paperwork before you arrive.
© DrivingInSriLanka.com — Information intended for guidance only. Always verify requirements with official authorities before driving in Sri Lanka.
