Driving in Sri Lanka: licences, car rental and road rules

Use a valid foreign licence (or an International Driving Permit) for up to a year. Rent a compact or sedan from $30‑$50 USD per day, include insurance, and plan 2‑3 h for Colombo‑Kandy drives.

Sri Lanka recognises foreign licences for a maximum of 12 months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not mandatory if your licence is in English. After 12 months you must obtain a Sri Lankan licence, which involves a written test and a practical exam.

Major agencies (Avis, Hertz, local firms) operate at Colombo Airport and city centres. Book online for the best rate; walk‑in prices are higher. Rental includes basic third‑party insurance; add comprehensive coverage for $5‑$10 USD per day. Drivers must be 21 years old, hold a licence for at least one year, and present a credit card for the deposit.

Traffic drives on the left; overtaking is on the right. Speed limits are posted in km/h: 40 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on expressways. Seat‑belts are compulsory for driver and front passenger; rear‑seat belts are optional but recommended. Use headlights at dusk; many rural roads lack lighting. Police checkpoints are common; keep registration and insurance documents handy.

Avoid peak traffic in Colombo (7‑9 am, 5‑7 pm). The Colombo‑Kandy route takes 3‑4 h; allow extra time for road works, especially after monsoon season. For coastal trips, the Southern Expressway reduces Colombo‑Galle travel to 1.5‑2 h. Check road closures on Poya days and during major festivals.