🇱🇰 Do you need an IDP to drive in Sri Lanka?

IDP required· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

Driving in Sri Lanka: the rule explained

Sri Lanka does not let tourists drive on a foreign licence or IDP alone; the licence/IDP must be validated into a local Recognition Permit. The Motor Traffic Act formally recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention; a 1949 Geneva IDP (or a non-English licence) must be endorsed first. The Recognition Permit is issued by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) and the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC).

Renting a car in Sri Lanka

Only full (not provisional/learner) foreign licences qualify; you obtain a same-day DMT/AAC Recognition Permit before renting, bringing passport, original licence, IDP and a photo.

Motorcycles & scooters: To ride a scooter or motorbike over 50cc you must already hold the motorcycle category on your home licence/IDP — you cannot add the class as a tourist.

What to carry when driving in Sri Lanka

Original driving license (physical card)
Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
Translation companion or certified translation of your license
Proof of insurance covering the destination
Obtain a DMT/AAC Recognition Permit before driving
Home licence must stay valid at least 1 year from application

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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Sri Lanka: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Sri Lanka?

Yes — to drive in Sri Lanka you generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP), carried together with your original national driving licence. The IDP is a recognised translation of your licence; it never replaces the licence itself. Sri Lanka does not let tourists drive on a foreign licence or IDP alone; the licence/IDP must be validated into a local Recognition Permit. The Motor Traffic Act formally recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention; a 1949 Geneva IDP (or a non-English licence) must be endorsed first. The Recognition Permit is issued by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) and the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC).

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Sri Lanka?

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Sri Lanka read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.

What do I need to rent a car in Sri Lanka?

Only full (not provisional/learner) foreign licences qualify; you obtain a same-day DMT/AAC Recognition Permit before renting, bringing passport, original licence, IDP and a photo.

Which IDP convention does Sri Lanka use?

Sri Lanka recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

Department of Motor Traffic (DMT), Sri Lanka

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? See how to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements vary by country. Carry your translation together with your original driving licence and passport; some countries require an official IDP issued by an authorised body in your country of licence. Information provided is general guidance. Always check local regulations for your destination.