Planning to explore Sri Lanka by car, motorcycle, or tuk-tuk? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining your tourist driving permit in Sri Lanka for 2025, including the latest information about the new airport permit service launched in August 2025.
Why You Need a Tourist Driving Permit in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is one of the few countries in the world where an International Driving Permit (IDP) or foreign national license alone is not sufficient to drive legally. Driving without a proper Sri Lankan recognition permit is considered illegal and can result in:
- Legal penalties and fines from traffic police
- Insurance void – your travel insurance may not cover accident costs
- Vehicle impoundment in case of traffic violations
- Deportation risks for serious violations
Important: All foreign visitors must obtain a local Sri Lankan driving permit before operating any motor vehicle, including cars, motorcycles, and tuk-tuks.
Latest Update: Airport Driving Permits (August 2025)
Revolutionary Change: On-Arrival Permits at BIA
As of August 3, 2025, Sri Lanka introduced a game-changing service allowing foreign tourists to obtain temporary driving permits directly at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) upon arrival. This eliminates the previous requirement to travel to Colombo offices.
Airport Permit Details
Location: Arrivals terminal at BIA Colombo
Service Hours: Available during airport operating hours
Processing Time: Within minutes of application
Validity: Up to 5 months (aligned with your visa duration)
Vehicle Coverage
- ✅ Light motor vehicles (cars, vans under 3,500kg)
- ✅ Motorcycles and scooters
- ❌ Three-wheelers (tuk-tuks) – NOT covered
- ❌ Heavy vehicles and commercial vehicles
Cost Structure
- LKR 2,000 per month (approximately $6-7 USD)
- Example: 3-month permit = LKR 6,000 ($18-20 USD)
- Payment methods: Cash (USD/LKR) or international credit/debit cards
Types of Tourist Driving Permits
1. Airport On-Arrival Permit (NEW – August 2025)
- Best for: Quick arrival and immediate driving needs
- Vehicles: Cars and motorcycles only
- Duration: 1-5 months
- Cost: LKR 2,000/month
2. AAC Recognition Permit (Traditional Method)
- Best for: All vehicle types including tuk-tuks
- Vehicles: Cars, motorcycles, tuk-tuks, all categories
- Duration: Up to 90 days (extendable)
- Cost: LKR 8,000-11,040 base fee
3. DMT Temporary Permit
- Best for: National license holders (non-IDP)
- Vehicles: Based on original license categories
- Duration: Monthly renewal system
- Cost: LKR 1,000/month
Requirements and Documents
Universal Requirements (All Methods)
Essential Documents
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Sri Lankan visa (electronic or stamped)
- Original foreign driving license (must be full license, not learner/provisional)
- International Driving Permit (IDP) – highly recommended
- Passport-sized photographs (2 copies with white background)
Additional Requirements
- License validity: Minimum 1 year of driving experience
- English translation: Required if license not in English
- Medical restrictions: Any limitations on your home license apply to Sri Lankan permit
Pro Tip: Obtain your IDP in your home country before traveling. Some Sri Lankan agencies now require an IDP even for AAC applications.
Specific Requirements by Method
For Airport Permits
- Full foreign license (1+ year validity)
- Passport and visa
- Certified translation if license not in English
- No learner, provisional, or temporary licenses accepted
For AAC Applications
- International Driving Permit (mandatory as of March 2025)
- All photocopies of required documents
- Cash payment in LKR
For DMT Applications
- Original and photocopies of all documents
- National driving license (IDP not required)
- Visa validity check (minimum 15 days remaining)
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Method 1: Airport On-Arrival (Recommended for Cars/Motorcycles)
Step 1: Upon Arrival at BIA
- Proceed to arrivals terminal
- Look for “Temporary Driving License Counter”
- Present all required documents
Step 2: Application Process
- Complete application form with staff assistance
- Document verification (2-3 minutes)
- Payment processing
- Photo capture (if required)
Step 3: Permit Collection
- Receive temporary license immediately
- Verify all details are correct
- Keep permit with you at all times while driving
Method 2: Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC)
Location and Hours
Address: 40, Sir Mohamed Macan Markar Mawatha, P.O. Box 338, Colombo 03
Phone: +94 11 2421528
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Application Process
- Arrive early (queues form quickly)
- Document submission with photocopies
- Fee payment in Sri Lankan Rupees
- Processing time: 2-4 hours on weekdays
- Permit collection same day
Method 3: Department of Motor Traffic (DMT)
Main Location
Address: Department of Motor Traffic Rd, Boralesgamuwa, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 112 518 926 / +94 112 518 950
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Alternative Location
Address: 341, Elvitigala Mawatha, Colombo 05
Phone: +94 11 203333
Process
- Document verification and form completion
- Monthly permit system – pay per month
- Processing time: 3-5 hours
- Renewal required monthly if staying longer
Fees and Costs (2025 Updated)
Airport On-Arrival Permits
| Duration | Cost (LKR) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 month | 2,000 | $6-7 |
| 2 months | 4,000 | $12-14 |
| 3 months | 6,000 | $18-20 |
| 5 months | 10,000 | $30-35 |
AAC Recognition Permits
- Base fee: LKR 8,000-11,040
- Service charges: Additional LKR 1,000-2,000
- Photos/copies: LKR 500-1,000
- Total estimated cost: LKR 10,000-15,000 ($30-45 USD)
DMT Temporary Permits
- Monthly fee: LKR 1,000 per month
- Application fee: LKR 500-1,000
- Document fees: LKR 200-500
- Total monthly cost: LKR 1,700-2,500 ($5-8 USD)
Exchange Rate Note: USD amounts are approximate based on LKR 330 = $1 USD (rates fluctuate daily).
Vehicle Type Restrictions
Airport Permits – Limited Coverage
✅ Allowed:
- Cars and light vehicles (under 3,500kg)
- Motorcycles and scooters
- Rental vehicles from licensed operators
❌ NOT Allowed:
- Three-wheelers (tuk-tuks)
- Heavy commercial vehicles
- Buses and minivans over weight limits
AAC/DMT Permits – Full Coverage
✅ Comprehensive Coverage:
- All light motor vehicles
- Motorcycles (with proper endorsement)
- Three-wheelers (tuk-tuks) with special endorsement
- Heavy vehicles (if qualified on home license)
Tuk-Tuk Driving Requirements
To drive a tuk-tuk legally in Sri Lanka, you must:
- Have a car license in your home country (minimum requirement)
- Obtain AAC Recognition Permit (airport permits don’t cover tuk-tuks)
- Get specific three-wheeler endorsement on your permit
- Rental companies can assist with endorsement applications
Scooter Exception
- Scooters under 49cc: Technically no license required (unregistered vehicles)
- Reality: Very few rental companies offer sub-49cc scooters to tourists
- Recommendation: Get proper permit regardless of engine size
Official Locations and Contact Information
Airport Service Counter
Location: Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) – Arrivals Terminal
Service: On-arrival temporary permits
Contact: Available through airport information
Hours: During airport operating hours
Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC)
Address: 40, Sir Mohamed Macan Markar Mawatha, P.O. Box 338, Colombo 03
Phone: +94 11 2421528
Email: [email protected]
Website: aaceylon.lk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Services: IDP recognition permits, all vehicle categories
Department of Motor Traffic – Main Office
Address: Department of Motor Traffic Rd, Boralesgamuwa, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 112 518 926 / +94 112 518 950
Email: [email protected]
Website: dmt.gov.lk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
DMT – Colombo Branch
Address: 341, Elvitigala Mawatha, Colombo 05
Phone: +94 11 203333
Services: National license recognition, temporary permits
Important Tips and Considerations
Before You Travel
- Get your IDP in your home country (required 2-4 weeks processing time)
- Check license validity – must be valid for at least 1 year
- Scan all documents and store digital copies
- Learn basic traffic rules – Sri Lanka drives on the left
Upon Arrival
- Consider airport permits first for cars/motorcycles (fastest option)
- Bring extra passport photos (white background)
- Have cash ready in both USD and LKR
- Verify permit details before leaving the office
While Driving in Sri Lanka
- Carry all documents – permit, passport, IDP always with you
- Understand traffic culture – “bigger vehicle has right of way” mentality
- Drive defensively – traffic rules often ignored
- Avoid expressways with motorcycles/tuk-tuks (not permitted)
- Helmet mandatory for motorcycles, seatbelts for cars
Insurance Considerations
- Rental vehicle insurance usually covers basic liability
- Travel insurance may be void without proper permits
- Comprehensive coverage recommended for longer stays
- Emergency numbers – Police: 119, Accident hotline: 1969
Safety First: Sri Lankan traffic can be chaotic. Consider hiring local drivers for the first few days to observe traffic patterns before driving yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive immediately with just my home country license?
No. Sri Lanka requires all foreign visitors to obtain a local recognition permit. Driving without one is illegal and can void your insurance.
Is the IDP enough to drive in Sri Lanka?
No. An IDP must be “recognized” by obtaining a local Sri Lankan permit from AAC, DMT, or the new airport service.
Can I get a tuk-tuk permit at the airport?
No. The new airport service only covers cars and motorcycles. For tuk-tuks, you must visit AAC or DMT offices in Colombo.
How long does the airport permit service take?
The process takes just minutes once you reach the counter, making it the fastest option available.
What if my license has restrictions (glasses, automatic only)?
Any restrictions on your home license will also apply to your Sri Lankan permit. These must be declared during application.
Can I extend my permit?
A: Airport permits can be issued for up to 5 months initially. AAC permits are typically valid for 90 days but may be extendable. DMT permits renew monthly.
What vehicles can I drive with a car license?
With a car license from your home country, you can typically drive cars, motorcycles (with endorsement), and tuk-tuks (with special endorsement) in Sri Lanka.
Is third-party insurance mandatory?
Yes, all vehicles must have valid insurance. Rental companies typically provide this, but verify coverage details.
Can I drive on expressways with a motorcycle?
No. Sri Lankan expressways (E-roads) prohibit motorcycles, tuk-tuks, and bicycles. Only cars and buses are allowed.
What happens if I’m caught driving without a permit?
Penalties include fines, vehicle impoundment, potential deportation for serious violations, and voided insurance coverage.
Conclusion
Getting your tourist driving permit in Sri Lanka has become significantly easier with the introduction of airport on-arrival services in August 2025. For cars and motorcycles, the airport option is now the fastest and most convenient method.
For tuk-tuk enthusiasts, the traditional AAC route remains necessary, but the process is well-established and straightforward. Regardless of which method you choose, having the proper documentation ensures legal compliance and peace of mind during your Sri Lankan adventure.
Key Takeaways:
- ✅ Airport permits (August 2025): Best for cars/motorcycles
- ✅ AAC permits: Required for tuk-tuks and comprehensive coverage
- ✅ Plan ahead: Get your IDP before traveling
- ✅ Budget appropriately: $6-45 USD depending on method and duration
- ✅ Drive safely: Understand local traffic culture and rules
Safe travels and enjoy exploring the beautiful island of Sri Lanka with your legal driving permit!
