Driving Permit & License Requirements

Important: You Need a Valid License to Ride

To legally ride a motorcycle or scooter in Sri Lanka, foreign tourists must carry either an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement, or obtain a Temporary Sri Lankan Driving Permit at the airport on arrival. Riding without a valid permit may void your insurance and result in fines.

Get Your Temporary Permit at the Airport (Recommended)

Since August 2025, the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) operates a 24/7 counter inside Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in the arrivals area. You can get your temporary Sri Lankan driving permit on the spot — no appointments or pre-registration needed.

Where to Find the DMT Counter

After clearing immigration and collecting your baggage, head to the Arrival Walkway. The DMT counter is located next to the SPAR supermarket in the arrivals area. It is easy to spot and designed for quick processing right after landing.

Documents Required

You Must Bring

Original valid passport with a valid tourist visa or entry permit
Original full foreign driving license from your home country (must be a proper/full license)
2 passport-sized photos (white background)

Important Notes

Provisional, learner, temporary, or probationary licenses are NOT accepted — you need a full license
If your license is not in English, bring a certified English translation or an IDP
Your foreign license should have at least 1 year of validity remaining
This service is for tourists on a tourist visa only

Fees (Current Official Rates)

Duration	Fee (LKR)	Approx USD
1 month	LKR 15,000	~$45
Up to 2 months	LKR 21,000	~$65
Up to 6 months	LKR 30,000	~$90

Note: Fees are subject to change. The maximum validity is up to 6 months, aligned with your tourist visa stay. Payment must be in Sri Lankan Rupees (cash).

Step-by-Step Process

Arrive & Clear Immigration

Collect your baggage and head to the arrivals walkway

Visit the DMT Counter

Next to the SPAR supermarket — open 24/7

Submit Documents & Pay

Hand over your documents and pay the fee in LKR cash

Receive Your Permit

Get your temporary license on the spot — quick processing!

While driving in Sri Lanka, you must carry both your original foreign driving license and your temporary Sri Lankan permit at all times.

Alternative: International Driving Permit (IDP)

An IDP is a translation of your home driving license into multiple languages, recognized in over 150 countries including Sri Lanka. Getting one before you travel can save you time at the airport, though having one does not exempt you from the temporary local permit if stopped by police.

Where to get it: Apply at your local automobile association (e.g. AAA in the USA, AA/Post Office in the UK, ADAC in Germany) before travelling
Cost: Typically $15–$30 USD / €15–€25
Validity: 1 year from date of issue
Requirement: Your IDP must include a Category A (motorcycle) endorsement — a car-only IDP is not sufficient for motorcycles

An IDP is strongly recommended as it simplifies things, especially if your license is not in English