Sri Lanka Driving Guide

Sri Lanka might be overlooked by some tourists, but it’s a hidden gem for those who love scenic landscapes and wildlife conservation.

This island nation is a biodiversity hotspot with rare and endangered flora and fauna. Some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sigiriya and Galle Fort.

Let the International Drivers Association guide you as you drive through this beautiful country.

Driving in Sri Lanka can be rewarding to explore the island's stunning landscapes and cultural sites, but being prepared is important. Here are essential things to know before traveling to Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka faces significant road challenges, with a report by EconomyNext highlighting a concerning number of fatalities.

• High Death Toll: Since 2016, at least one person has died in a road accident every three hours in Sri Lanka. This translates to an average of eight deaths per day.
• Accidents on the Rise: Over the past seven and a half years (Jan 2016 - June 2023), a staggering 223,451 reported accidents have been reported.
• Fatality Rate: Sri Lanka has a motor traffic death rate exceeding 120 per million inhabitants. This is significantly higher than developed nations like the US (13) and Japan (3).

Government Takes Action

Recognizing the severity of the issue, the Sri Lankan government is implementing new measures to improve road safety:

• Demerit Point System: A demerit point system for traffic offenses is planned for launch in January 2024. Drivers accumulating 24 points will face license suspension.
• Speed Limit Regulations: The government is working on revising speed limits to potentially lower them and improve safety.

Deciding on the optimal mode of transportation will help you experience the best things to do in Sri Lanka. If you choose to drive, you will share the roads with:

Public Buses: Operated by the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB), public buses are the most common and economical mode of transport. They cover extensive routes across the country, including rural areas.

Private Buses: These are operated by private companies and offer more frequent services. They tend to be faster but can be more crowded and less comfortable.

Three-wheeled auto-rickshaws, commonly known as tuk-tuks, are widely used for short-distance travel. They are convenient for navigating city traffic rules and are available almost everywhere.

Taxis are readily available in cities and tourist areas. Ride-hailing services like PickMe and Uber are also popular, offering a more comfortable and reliable alternative to tuk-tuks.

Alertness is Key: Sri Lankan drivers tend to be more assertive, with frequent lane changes and horn use. Be prepared for unexpected maneuvers and slower-moving vehicles like tuk-tuks sharing the road.

Right of Way: While Sri Lanka follows a left-hand drive system, the right of way isn't always strictly followed. Defensive driving and anticipating the actions of others are essential.

Speed Variations: Expect a mix of speeds on the road. Highways allow for faster travel, while rural roads and towns often require slower, more cautious driving.

Overtaking: Overtaking maneuvers can be daring, especially on single-lane roads. Be extra cautious when approaching intersections or blind corners.

While not impossible, driving at night in Sri Lanka requires extra caution.

Reduced Visibility: Street lighting, especially outside major cities, can be limited. This makes it harder to see pedestrians, animals, and obstacles on the road.

Increased Risk of Accidents: Statistics show a higher frequency of accidents at night due to the factors mentioned above, along with potentially impaired driving.

Animal Encounters: Animals like elephants and wild boars are more active at night, increasing the risk of collisions.

In Sri Lanka, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road, following the British system. The driver’s seat is on the right side of the vehicle.

The legal driving age in Sri Lanka is 18 for locals and foreigners. However, most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 and have at least one year of driving experience to rent a car.

The legal BAC limit in Sri Lanka is 0.08%. Exceeding this limit carries strict penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and the suspension or revocation of the driver’s license.

In Sri Lanka, speed limits vary based on the type of vehicle and the area:

Urban Areas:

• Motorcycles and heavy vehicles: 40 km/h
• Cars and light vehicles: 60 km

Outside Urban Areas:

• Motorcycles: 40 km/h
• Motor coaches and heavy vehicles: 60 km/h
• Cars and light vehicles: 70 km

Expressways:

• Cars and light vehicles: 100 km/h
• Motorcycles are not allowed on expressways

Seat belts are mandatory for both the driver and front-seat passengers. Although it is not legally required for backseat passengers, it is strongly recommended that all passengers wear seat belts for safety.

• Pedestrians: Pedestrians generally have the right of way at crosswalks and intersections. According to pedestrian rules in Sri Lanka, drivers should yield to pedestrians at all times.
• Vehicles: At roundabouts and intersections, vehicles already in the roundabout or intersection have the right of way. Drivers must yield to traffic coming from the right at roundabouts.

• Urban Parking: Parking in cities can be challenging due to congestion. Paid parking is available in designated areas, and parking meters are common in major cities.
• Restrictions: Be aware of no-parking zones, which are usually marked with signs. Illegally parked vehicles can be fined or towed.

Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and tourist spots. When asking for directions, approach locals politely and clearly state your destination. Always start with a polite greeting like "Excuse me" (Sinhala: සමාවෙන්න (samāvenna), Tamil: மன்னிக்கவும் (maṉṉikkavum)).

It’s helpful to have the name of the place written down in case of language barriers:

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for foreign travelers who wish to drive in Sri Lanka. It is an official translation of your home country’s driver’s license and is necessary for legally renting and driving vehicles in Sri Lanka.

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Yes, an IDP issued from outside Sri Lanka is accepted, provided it is from a country that is a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic or the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Sometimes, the IDP needs to be endorsed by the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) upon arrival in Sri Lanka. Ensure you carry both your IDP and your original driver’s license.

If you reside outside Sri Lanka, you can obtain an IDP online through third-party organizations like the International Drivers Association. This process typically includes completing an online application form, uploading necessary documents, and paying the processing fee.

In Sri Lanka, there is no maximum age limit for holding or renewing a driving license. However, drivers must be medically fit, and regular check-ups are required to ensure continued eligibility​.

Renting a car allows you to enjoy Sri Lanka's scenic beauty. For the best time to visit Sri Lanka, consider the dry season from December to March on the west and south coasts and from May to September on the east coast.

You can choose from various international brands to local companies in the country. Some of the best car rental companies in Sri Lanka include:

Avis: A globally recognized brand with multiple locations across Sri Lanka, including Colombo and major airports.

Kings Rent A Car: A reputable local company offering a wide range of vehicles and personalized services.

Malkey Rent A Car: A popular choice for both short-term and long-term rentals, known for its excellent customer service.

• Valid driver’s license from your home country.
• International Driving Permit (IDP).
• Passport for identification.
• Credit card for the security deposit and payment.

Age Requirements

Most car rental companies in Sri Lanka require drivers to be at least 21 to rent a vehicle.

Budget-friendly: For the cost-conscious traveler, compact cars can cost around $25 to $35 (LKR 4,500 to LKR 6,300) per day. These vehicles are perfect for navigating smaller towns and scenic coastal roads.

Average: Mid-size cars offer more space and comfort for exploring the island's diverse landscapes. Expect to pay between $35 and $50 (LKR 6,300 to LKR 9,000) per day for this category.

Luxury: Indulge in a luxurious Sri Lankan adventure with a premium car rental. Prices for these vehicles typically start at $80 (LKR 14,400) or more per day.

Car insurance is essential when renting a car in Sri Lanka. Here are the key aspects of car insurance policies for rentals:

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): This reduces your liability in case the rental vehicle is damaged. It is usually included in the rental price but can be upgraded for more coverage.

Theft Protection: This covers the cost of the car if it is stolen. It is typically included in the rental agreement.

Third-Party Liability Insurance: This is mandatory and covers damages to third parties, including injuries and property damage.

Personal Accident Insurance: Provides coverage for medical expenses and accidental death benefits for drivers and passengers.

Before purchasing a policy, consider the best car insurance companies in Sri Lanka:

• Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation
• Ceylinco General Insurance
• Janashakthi Insurance
• Union Assurance
• Allianz Insurance Lanka

With an International Driving Permit, you’ll unlock the gateway to Sri Lanka's hidden wonders in Asia. After exploring the best hotels in Sri Lanka, it's time to book your car rentals. Once you visit Sri Lanka, you'll likely want to return for more adventures!