Foreign tourists arriving in Sri Lanka can now obtain temporary driving licenses at the Colombo International Airport (BIA). The on-arrival service counter, launched 3rd August 2025 aims to enhance convenience for travellers, particularly those who rent vehicles near the airport and prefer to drive during their stay.

Department of Motor Traffic Sri Lanka (DMT) service counter is now available arrival terminal of Colombo International Airport 24 Hrs to issue temporary driving licences for tourist in Sri Lanka. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

How to apply for a temporary driving license at Colombo Airport?

If you are a tourist traveling in Sri Lanka who is having a valid driving licenses in your home country, is now eligible to obtain your temporary driving licence in Sri Lanka at Department of Motor Traffic Service Counter available arrival terminal of Colombo Airport. 

 

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Visit the Driving License Counter at Colombo Airport just after the immigration.
• Present your documents for validation.
• Pay the fee (Rs. 2,000 per month requested).
• Receive your temporary Sri Lankan driving permit.

 

 

What are the required documents to apply temporary driving licenses?

• Valid passport
• Valid Sri Lankan tourist visa
• Full driving license from the country of origin
• Certified translation (if license is not in English)

 

What vehicle types of vehicle covered?

This temporary driving permit is only valid to drive 

• Motorcycles
• Light private vehicles 

 

 

What are the excluded categories?

• Heavy vehicles
• Three wheelers (Tuk-tuks) — (Apply at Werahera DMT office) 

 

What is the contact No of DMT Office Colombo airport 

+94 70 304 5888 (24 Hrs x 365 Days) 

 

What are the charges for tourist temporary driving licences?

Its only 2,000 Sri Lanka Rupees for 30 days temporary licences. Approximately 7 USD) (This can be changed periodically) 

 

 

Can I pay from my debit or credit card for my temporary driving licences?

Yes, credit or debits cards are accepted but no foreign currencies are accepted and only Sri Lanka Rupees for the moment if you pay hard cash. 

 

Can all foreign tourists apply for a temporary driving license?

Only non Sri Lankan tourists with a full valid license can apply. 

 

Is dual citizens or learners are eligible for temporary licences?

No. This is only for non Sri Lankan tourists who are coming to Sri Lanka under “Tourist VISA category”. Also learners are not allowed to apply temporary driving licence. 

 

 

Is it mandatory to translate my license?

Yes, if your license is not in English, a certified English translation is mandatory.

 

Can I drive with my home country's license only?

No. You need the Sri Lankan-issued temporary permit to drive legally.

 

 

Where can I apply for tuk-tuk driving permits?

Visit the Department of Motor Traffic in Werahera for such licenses.

 

What are the Legal Obligations for Foreign Drivers?

Until you leave from Sri Lanka, you are bound to law of Sri Lanka. 

 

 

Can I extend my temporary driving license?

Yes you can extend your driving licenses from Werahera Department of Motor traffic Office. Contact your travel agent in Sri Lanka for assistance. 

 

Is this facility available in other entry points to Sri Lanka like Mattala or Colombo port?

No. For the moment this is available at Colombo International Airport only (BIA – Bandaranaike International Airport)