"International Driver's License In Sri Lanka: Rent A Car and Drive Safely "

You can apply online for IDL via our website in a few simple steps:

1. Fill out the application form.

2. Upload two passport-size photos.

3. Get approved within 2 hours or less.

The physical copy will be shipped to you anywhere you want. So you can apply for IDL from your country before the trip from anywhere in the world: India, Italy, Norway, Spain, Philippines, Australia, Belgium, Ireland, Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, Taiwan, etc.

An IDL allows you to drive vehicles abroad. It's essential for passing checkpoints and inspections. Car rental companies may also require it. With an IDP, you can drive motorcycles, too.

Get an International Driver's License and present it for a temporary driving permit. Your IDP serves as a translation of your local driver's license.

An international driving permit in Sri Lanka costs $49, valid for one year. You can choose from 1 to 3 years of validity for your International Driving Permit.

Tourists staying in the country for over 6 months can obtain this driver's license from the Automobile Association of Ceylon in Galle Face or the Department of Motor Traffic in Werahera.

Planning your destinations and schedule is crucial as a tourist, but flexibility also proves to be advantageous. Renting a car can help with this, although challenges may arise from narrow roads and traffic.

To make it easier, you should familiarize yourself with the place, the people, and the important aspects of driving rules in Sri Lanka for a successful trip on this island nation.

You can expect checkpoints in some places across the country. So don't forget your IDL with you, together with your driver's license, passport, and some identification cards. These might be needed for certain inspections. It pays to be ready.

Road accidents can pose serious threats to people's lives. Drunk driving can lead to minor and significant injuries. Because of this, there is a fine between LKR 25,000 and 30,000 for those caught drunk driving, and your license might be suspended for up to 12 months. A driver must not consume over 0.06% of alcohol.

Authorities rigorously enforce speed limits in various areas. In residential or rural areas, it is imperative to maintain a speed not exceeding 50 kph. Urban roads permit a speed limit of 70 kph, while on highways and expressways, the maximum allowable speed is 100 kph. It's important to note that police officers are vigilant in enforcing these limits, and exceeding the speed limit can lead to intervention, even on expressways.

There is a corresponding fine for not wearing seatbelts while you are on the road. Both drivers and passengers need to wear seatbelts. Toddlers should be provided with car seats, and seatbelts should not be shared.

Though it has been a habit for some to check their cell phones now and then, it is prohibited when you are driving. You must know you can use your cell phone, especially when you expect an essential call to use the hands-free system.

Road signs have three languages: Sinhala, Tamil, and English. These first two are the country's official languages.

Explore the stunning coastlines of this country along the east and south. Here are the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Most tourists would always start their trip in Colombo. There are also great locations in the capital that you can enjoy. Beira Lake is in the city's heart, surrounded by busy commercial businesses and other buildings. Crocodiles used to live in the lake when the Portuguese constructed it to protect its people. November to February is the best time to visit Sri Lanka since the air is more relaxed and there are low chances of rain.

Now let's get to know more about the lovely country. Don't fail to visit its national museum; this is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. It was founded by Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). Explore rooms two to five of the museum as it showcases that mirror ancient country, and it is also a must-see before you drive to ancient cities and Kandy.

It is a Buddhist temple in Kandy with a golden roof. The temple houses the sacred tooth of the Buddha. The room housing the tooth is heavily guarded and open to devotees and tourists. The relic is placed in a gold casket, so you don't see the relic once you visit there. The best time to visit the temple is outside prayer times around 5:30 AM, 9:30 AM, and 6:30 PM.

One of the country's renowned rock temples lies in the North Central Province of Polonnaruwa. It features four distinct Buddha statues - a large seated, a smaller seated, a standing, and a reclining Buddha. The tallest among them is the 7-foot standing Buddha, which is highly visible.

Also called Sigiriya Fortress, which sits in the northern Matale District near Dambulla's town. Considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, get ready to be amazed by the 360-degree view after climbing the 1,200 stairs to the top. On top of this rock was King Kashyapa's palace, according to an ancient chronicle.

For hiking enthusiasts, this is for you! This national park covers 3,169 hectares and is full of flora and fauna; few are the rarest. You can do a 9-kilometer, 3-hour trek from the visitor center, which serves as a jump-off point. Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the extreme heat come noontime. Hortons Plains is the coldest and windiest place during the early hours; enjoy that while you trek.

Ella is a small town in the southern part of the country. Ella Rock is a famous cliff about 8km from the town center. Upon arrival, you can hire a local guide for the 2-3 hour hike. The trail is lined with Eucalyptus trees, creating a forest-like atmosphere. Starting early is recommended to enjoy the scenic landscape from the top.

Negombo is a commercial city on the West Coast known for its colonial-era trading port. Don't miss a visit to Negombo Beach for a peaceful sea breeze. Start early, bring coffee or breakfast, and savor the serene waves. You may even encounter local fishermen heading out to fish. And don't forget to witness the picturesque sunset while lying on the beautiful brown sand.

This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Sabaragamuwa and Southern Provinces. This 7,648-hectare forest reserve is home to over 50% of rare and endangered species of mammals, butterflies, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Camping, trekking, hiking, and bird watching are allowed but with the supervision of wardens or persons in charge.

This national park is another must-visit place if you are into biodiversity and wildlife. This 29,000-hectare reserve is located in the Uva and Eastern provinces. You should not miss the elephant herd seen throughout the year in this national park. You can tour around the area by jeep or boat safari.

Ready to immerse yourself in Sri Lanka's breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture? Now that you hold the key information for your journey, it's time for the adventure of a lifetime. Get your backpack ready, explore the unmatched beauty of Sri Lanka, and create unforgettable memories.

To make your trip smoother, consider getting an International Driving Permit; it will allow you to explore at your own pace. Check out our International Driving License Packages. Make your dream trip to Sri Lanka a reality!