Can Tourists Drive in Sri Lanka?
Yes. Visitors can drive in Sri Lanka if they hold a valid driving licence from their home country and obtain a Sri Lankan driving permit. Jayasinghe Tours rents self-drive cars from Katunayake, and the DMT office in the airport lobby issues the temporary permit 24/7.
Rules and fees can change, so confirm the latest requirements with us before you travel.
How to Get a Temporary Sri Lankan Driving Permit
- Bring your passport and your valid national driving licence. The licence must have at least 6 months of validity remaining.
- If your licence is not in English, it must be accompanied by an officially endorsed English translation.
- Visit the DMT office in the Airport Lobby, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The fee for the temporary Sri Lankan driving permit is 50 USD.
- Already have an International Driving Permit (IDP)? It can be endorsed at the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AA Ceylon) for around 30 USD. This process takes some time.
Please note: IDP endorsement at AA Ceylon takes more time, so we can arrange it for you in advance of your arrival. Please contact us for more information. AA Ceylon is closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, so please plan your dates accordingly.
Security Deposit, Mileage and Payment
- A refundable security deposit of at least $300 USD is required on every rental and is returned when the vehicle comes back in its original condition.
- Daily rates include unlimited mileage and insurance.
- Payment is usually accepted in cash in USD, EUR or LKR on arrival at the airport or at the start of the rental. Details are confirmed on WhatsApp.
Road Rules and Speed Limits
- Traffic drives on the left.
- Highways: maximum 100 km/h, and tolls apply.
- Out of town: 70 km/h.
- Urban areas: 50 km/h.
Mountain roads towards Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Ella are slower, so allow extra travel time.
Prefer Not to Drive?
If you do not want to handle permits and traffic, hire a car with a driver instead. See all rental options on our Sri Lanka car rental page.