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 options, they may feel restrictive and tiring. Tuk-tuks offer a unique experience but come with limitations in distance and speed. Additionally, there are countless hidden gems beyond popular destinations like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, accessible only through smaller, less-traveled roads.
For an authentic and adventurous exploration, renting a motorbike comes out as the optimal choice. Riding a motorbike provides unmatched flexibility and speed, enabling you to venture off the beaten path and uncover hiddentreasures. All it takes is renting a motorbike and arranging a temporary local driving permit. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do it, allowing you to experience the Sri Lanka's open roads.
CAN FOREIGNERS DRIVE IN SRI LANKA?
Yes, you can drive in Sri Lanka with a foreign license, 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) approved by the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka (AA).
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR A TEMPORARY DRIVING LICENSE?
If you're a foreigner over 18, visiting on a tourist visa, and have a valid license from your own country, you can apply for a temporary driving permit in Sri Lanka. You don't specifically need a motorbike or scooter license, but you must have a full car license at least.
OPTION 1 – APPLYING FOR A TEMPORARY DRIVING PERMIT IN SRI LANKA
All you need is a few hours of your time and a few documents. And don't worry, we've got some helpful tips to make sure you smoothly sail through the process without any problems.
WHERE TO APPLY FOR THE TEMPORARY DRIVING PERMIT?
To get your temporary permit, head over to the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) in Werahera. Instead of relying on a regular tuk-tuk, it's better to use a ride-hailing app like PickMe or Uber for about 1500 LKR. This might cost a bit more but it's more convenient and will take you around 30 minutes.
Address: Department of Motor Traffic Rd, Boralesgamuwa, Sri Lanka. Phone: +94 112 518 926 / +94 112 518 950
Here are some helpful tips:
- DMT is open from 9 AM to 4 PM, Monday to Friday. It's best to arrive early to avoid long lines.
- Make sure to check the public calendar for any holidays, especially Poya days, which are national holidays.
- Bring cash because cards are not accepted.
- If you're taking the bus, catch bus number 120 from Colombo Fort to the Borelesgamuwa bus station. From there, you can either take a tuk-tuk for about 6 minutes or walk if you prefer.
WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE NEEDED?
Make sure you have both the originals and photocopies of the following documents to speed up the process:
- Your Passport
- A copy of your passport
- A copy of your Sri Lankan visa (ensure it has at least one month of validity)
- Your valid foreign driving license
- A copy of your driving license
- Sufficient cash for payment (card payment isn't accepted)
Tips:
- If your license isn't in English, you'll need a translation from the embassy or relevant authority in your home country.
- Bring at least 2 photocopies of each document in case you lose one. Consider carrying a pen drive with all documents for extra safety, in case you need to reprint. Nearby print shops, like "Print Talk," can be found on Google Maps.
- Remember, you won't be able to make photocopies inside DMT, so get this done before arriving.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST AND HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
The temporary driving permit will cost you LKR 1,000 for each 30-day period you need it. The validity of the Sri Lankan driving license depends on the remaining duration of your Sri Lankan visa.
The process usually takes between 45 minutes to 2 hours, sometimes longer if there's a line. So, it's crucial to follow the tips mentioned earlier to avoid any hassle due to missing documents.
The fee must be paid in cash during the application, and you'll receive the permit on the same day.
THE PROCESS BREAKDOWN
Navigating through the various counters and direction boards might seem daunting, but here's a simple breakdown of the process:
Step 1: Look for the building marked with a red "H" for "Driving License Unit."
Step 2: Visit the reception to collect your tokens (one per person). Keep them safe for Step 5.
Step 3: Locate the building with yellow pillars. You'll be stopped by security to review your documents before entering.
Step 4: Find the counter to register your fingerprints, have your photo taken, and e-sign a form. These will be printed for your next steps.
Step 5: Proceed to counters 15-20 to verify all your documents before heading to the payment counter. After making the payment and a final check, you can collect your permit.
Tips:
Ensure your permit is properly verified and endorsed by the DMT authorities before leaving. Remember, your temporary permit will expire on the stated date, so be prompt in renewing it when due!
OPTION 2 – ENDORSING YOUR LICENSE WITH AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION OF SRI LANKA
In case you forgot, there's another option for driving in Sri Lanka as a foreigner!
If you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), you can also go to the Automobile Association (AA) office in Colombo to get it endorsed. The office is open Monday to Friday, from 9 AM to 4 PM. The cost may vary between LKR 7,000 to LKR 8,000, but fees can change.
Address: 40 Sir Mohomad Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 00300 Phone: 0112 421 528