Colombo, August 3, 2025 — In a move aimed at simplifying the process for international visitors wishing to drive in Sri Lanka, authorities have launched a new facility at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) to issue temporary Sri Lankan driving licences on arrival.
The initiative, which became operational this week, allows eligible foreign travellers to obtain a local driving permit directly at the airport, bypassing the previous lengthy and often complicated process of visiting the Department of Motor Traffic in Colombo. This change is expected to ease travel logistics for tourists who prefer exploring the island nation by car.
According to officials from the Transport Ministry, the service is available to travellers who present a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their passport and visa documents. Upon verification and submission of a passport-sized photograph, applicants can receive their temporary licence on the spot.
Fees for the permits are structured based on the intended duration of stay, with short-term licences valid for two weeks priced at USD 25 and one-month licences costing USD 45. The temporary permit covers driving of standard passenger vehicles but excludes motorised three-wheelers and tuk-tuks, which require a specific Sri Lankan driving licence category.
Previously, tourists had to undergo a time-consuming process through the Automobile Association of Ceylon or the Department of Motor Traffic in Colombo, which involved paperwork, endorsements, and waiting periods that could last a day or more. This caused inconvenience for many visitors who arrived with immediate travel plans.
While this new system marks progress, officials have cautioned that it does not replace the need for proper licensing for all vehicle types. Specifically, three-wheelers remain under strict regulation, and driving them without the appropriate local licence can result in penalties for both drivers and vehicle owners.
Local transport experts and frequent travellers have welcomed the airport facility as a step towards modernising Sri Lanka’s approach to road safety and tourism, though some stress the importance of clear communication to ensure visitors understand the limitations of the temporary licence.
For visitors planning to drive during their stay, experts advise securing the required International Driving Permit before arrival and carefully reviewing the types of vehicles allowed under the new scheme.
This development comes as part of broader efforts by Sri Lankan authorities to enhance tourist experiences and improve compliance with road safety regulations amid rising numbers of international arrivals.
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