Rules for Foreigners Driving in Sri Lanka: Enjoy Safe Adventures with Updated 2025 License Guide 2

Steps to introduce a set of rules for owners when providing Bikes, three-wheelers to foreigners

Foreigners driving in Sri Lanka face new regulations in 2025, especially when renting tuk-tuks and motorbikes. The Police Traffic Headquarters has reported an increase in accidents involving foreign tourists operating three-wheelers, prompting stricter enforcement of licensing requirements. This guide outlines the essential steps for foreign visitors to legally and safely drive in Sri Lanka.

The Police Traffic Headquarters has issued a statement regarding the driving of three-wheelers by foreign tourists in the country and the reduction of accidents related to it.

The Police state that the trend of foreign tourists visiting the country driving three-wheelers in the country has increased.

The Police also point out that the number of accidents in this regard has also increased in the past.

When providing vehicles to foreigners, especially three-wheelers, the Police request the owners of institutions and hotels that provide vehicles to tourists to properly check whether they are in possession of a valid driving license to drive vehicles in the country and take steps to provide them with the relevant vehicles.

A significant number of foreigners who have come to Sri Lanka to visit and rent a three-wheeler for a short period of time have recently faced various road accidents.

When paying attention to this matter, it has been revealed that the lack of licenses and training for driving three-wheelers has led to these accidents.

Did you know?

Foreigners Driving in Sri Lanka: Updated Licensing Rules for Renting Motorbikes & Scooters in 2025

The Sri Lankan government has recently revised its regulations for foreigners renting motorbikes and scooters. The rules vary depending on whether the foreign national holds an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a local driving license from their home country.

1. Renting a Motorbike or Scooter with an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Foreigners holding a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) can rent a motorbike or scooter in Sri Lanka based on the following vehicle categories:

• Category A or A1 → Eligible to rent motorbikes and scooters.
• Category MA → Eligible to rent scooters below 125cc.

📌 Apply for the International Driving License here:
🔗 International Driving License Application

2. Renting a Motorbike or Scooter with a Local Driving License (Home Country License)

If a foreign national wishes to rent a motorbike or scooter using their local driving license from their home country, they must meet the following requirements:

• Category A or A1 → Eligible to rent motorbikes and scooters.
• Category MA → Eligible to rent scooters below 125cc.

Mandatory Conversion Certificate Requirement

Foreigners using their local country license (instead of an IDP) must visit the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) in Werahera to submit their local driving license and obtain a Conversion Certificate issued by the Commissioner. This certificate is a legal requirement for renting a motorbike or scooter in Sri Lanka.

Foreigners Driving in Sri Lanka: Updated Licensing Rules for Foreigners Renting Tuk-Tuks in Sri Lanka in 2025

The Sri Lankan government has revised its regulations regarding the licensing requirements for foreigners renting tuk-tuks. The eligibility criteria depend on whether the foreign national holds an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a local driving license from their home country.

---

1. Renting a Tuk-Tuk with an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Foreigners who possess a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) can rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka if their IDP includes one of the following vehicle categories:

• Category B or B1 → Eligible to rent a tuk-tuk.

📌 Apply for the International Driving License here:
🔗 International Driving License Application

Mandatory Temporary Driving License Requirement

Even with a valid IDP, foreign nationals must apply for a Temporary Driving License issued by the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) before they can legally drive a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka.

📌 Apply for the Temporary Driving License here:
🔗 Temporary Driving License Application

---

2. Renting a Tuk-Tuk with a Local Driving License (Home Country License)

Foreign nationals who wish to rent a tuk-tuk using their local country driving license must meet the following criteria:

For Older Driving Licenses

• Category A, E, or B1 → Eligible to rent a tuk-tuk.

For Newer Driving Licenses

• Category C, C1, CE, D, or D1 → Eligible to rent a tuk-tuk.

Mandatory Conversion Certificate Requirement

Foreigners using their local country driving license must visit the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) in Werahera to submit their local license and obtain a Conversion Certificate issued by the Commissioner.

---

3. Special Requirements for Category B License Holders

If a foreign national holds only a Category B license, they must complete an additional step before being allowed to rent a tuk-tuk:

1. Visit the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) in Werahera.
2. Undergo a driving lesson for tuk-tuks.
3. Upon completion, the DMT will issue a B1 category license, allowing the individual to legally drive a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka.

---

Where to Obtain the Conversion Certificate & Driving Lessons

📍 Location: Department of Motor Traffic (DMT), Werahera
🕘 Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📞 Contact: +94 112 518 926 / +94 112 518 950

Are you using your International Driving Permit or Your National Country License

Important Update (As of 24.03.2025):

🚨 The Automobile Association of Sri Lanka (AA) no longer accepts national driving permits for local recognition.

🔹 What You Need to Do:
✔️ Get an International Driving License from your home country before coming to Sri Lanka.
✔️ If you don’t have one, you must visit the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) at Werahera to submit your local license and get a Conversion Certificate.

This is now required to legally drive in Sri Lanka! 🚗💨

Submitted Your Local License and Get Conversion certificate from the Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner

Where to Go:
📍 Department of Motor Traffic (DMT), Werahera
🕘 Open: Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 4 PM
📞 Contact: +94 112 518 926 / +94 112 518 950

How to Get There:
🚗 Best Option: Use PickMe or Uber (Approx. 1,500 LKR, ~30 min)
🚌 By Bus: Take bus 120 from Colombo Fort → Get off at Borelesgamuwa Bus Station (90min) → Take a tuk-tuk (40min) or walk
💰 Important: Bring cash (cards not accepted)

Documents You Need:
✅ Original passport + 1 photocopy
✅ Sri Lanka visa copy (at least 1-month validity)
✅ Your home country’s driving license + 1 photocopy
✅ Enough cash for payment (No card payments)
📜 If your license is not in English: Get it translated by your embassy or an official authority

Pro Tips:
📄 Take at least 2 photocopies of everything
💾 Bring a USB drive with scanned copies in case you need reprints
🖨️ Print shops nearby (search “Print Talk” on Google Maps)
🚫 No photocopies allowed inside DMT – get them done before you go
📅 Check for public holidays (Poya days are national holidays)

This guide will help you get your temporary permit smoothly! 🚗💨

Conclusion: Staying Safe and Legal on Sri Lankan Roads

The increasing popularity of foreigners driving in Sri Lanka has led to significant changes in licensing requirements. Understanding these regulations is crucial for foreigners driving in Sri Lanka who wish to explore this beautiful island nation independently.

When foreigners driving in Sri Lanka rent motorbikes, scooters, or tuk-tuks, they must ensure they have the proper documentation. The Department of Motor Traffic has implemented these rules to reduce accidents involving foreigners driving in Sri Lanka and to improve road safety for everyone.

For foreigners driving in Sri Lanka with an International Driving Permit, the process is relatively straightforward, though additional steps are required for certain vehicle categories. Those foreigners driving in Sri Lanka who only have their home country license must obtain a Conversion Certificate, which requires a visit to the DMT in Werahera.

The recent increase in accidents involving foreigners driving in Sri Lanka highlights the importance of these regulations. Hotel owners and rental agencies should verify proper licensing before providing vehicles to foreigners driving in Sri Lanka.

By following these guidelines, foreigners driving in Sri Lanka can enjoy their journey safely while respecting local laws. Remember, the freedom of exploring Sri Lanka’s scenic landscapes comes with the responsibility of ensuring you’re legally permitted to operate your chosen vehicle. Safe travels to all foreigners driving in Sri Lanka!