Getting a Temporary Driving Permit in Sri Lanka

Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka but unsure about the most efficient way to navigate the island? While buses and trains are available, they may feel restrictive and tiring. Tuk-tuks offer a unique experience but come with limitations in distance and speed. And there are countless hidden gems beyond popular destinations like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, accessible only through smaller, less-travelled roads.

For an authentic and adventurous exploration, renting a motorbike is the optimal choice. All it takes is renting a motorbike and arranging a temporary local driving permit. Here's how to do it.

Can foreigners drive in Sri Lanka?

You can physically drive in Sri Lanka with only a foreign licence, but it's against the law. If caught, you could get fined or face other problems, especially if you're in an accident.

To avoid these issues, you have two choices:

• Get a temporary Sri Lankan driving permit from the Department of Motor Traffic.
• Have your International Driving Permit (IDP) endorsed by the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka.

Who is eligible?

If you're a foreigner over 18, visiting on a tourist visa, and hold a valid licence from your own country, you can apply. You don't specifically need a motorbike or scooter licence, but you must have at least a full car licence.

Option 1 — Applying at the Department of Motor Traffic

Head to the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) in Werahera. A ride-hailing app like PickMe or Uber costs about 1,500 LKR and takes around 30 minutes from central Colombo.

Address: Department of Motor Traffic Rd, Boralesgamuwa
Phone: +94 112 518 926 / +94 112 518 950

Helpful tips

• Open 9 AM to 4 PM, Monday to Friday. Arrive early to avoid long lines.
• Check the public calendar for holidays, especially Poya days.
• Bring cash — cards are not accepted.
• By bus, take number 120 from Colombo Fort to Boralesgamuwa.

What documents are needed?

• Your passport, plus a photocopy
• A copy of your Sri Lankan visa (with at least one month validity remaining)
• Your valid foreign driving licence, plus a photocopy
• Sufficient cash for payment

If your licence isn't in English, you'll need a translation from your embassy. Bring at least two photocopies of each document — you can't make copies inside the DMT.

Cost and timing

The permit costs 1,000 LKR for each 30-day period. Validity depends on the remaining duration of your visa. The process usually takes 45 minutes to 2 hours, and you'll receive the permit the same day.

The process, step by step

1. Look for the building marked with a red "H" for "Driving License Unit."
2. Visit reception to collect your tokens — keep them safe for step 5.
3. Locate the building with yellow pillars; security will review your documents.
4. Register fingerprints, have your photo taken, and e-sign a form.
5. Go to counters 15–20 to verify documents, then pay and collect your permit.

Option 2 — Endorsing your International Driving Permit

If you have an IDP, the Automobile Association office in Colombo can endorse it. Open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM. Cost is usually 7,000–8,000 LKR.

Address: 40 Sir Mohomad Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 00300
Phone: +94 112 421 528

The easier option: let us handle it

We arrange the temporary permit for our renters directly — around $40, roughly 2 weeks, delivered with your bike once you're in Sri Lanka.