Getting permit to drive If you have a IDP or home country license, you can get the permit to drive a three Wheel. 

Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) Endorsement.

If you already have an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a valid license from your home country, you can drive a three-wheeler in Sri Lanka. The IDP lets you drive internationally but can’t be used in the country that issued it. 

Sri Lanka recognizes all three types of IDPs, but we’re one of the few countries that require you to get your IDP endorsed (verified) by a local authority. The Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) is the authorized organization for this. To get the endorsement, you’ll need to visit their office in Colombo and submit the following:

A clear scan of your IDP (front side and inner photo page)

A clear scan of your passport

A passport-size photo of yourself

Keep in mind, it may take a few days for the endorsement to be processed depending on when you visit.

Getting a Temporary Sri Lankan Driving Licence (TSDL)

If you’re looking to drive a light vehicle (car, for example), you can apply for a Temporary Sri Lankan Driving Licence (TSDL). Foreigners can get a TDL, but it’s only valid for light vehicles, and it’s a short-term license (anywhere from one month to six months). To apply for one, you’ll need to go in person to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMT) in Werahera. It’s about an hour’s drive from Central Colombo, but with traffic, it can take up to three hours.

You’ll need to bring the following documents:

A clear scan of your home country’s driver’s license (front and back)

A clear scan of your passport

A passport-size photo of yourself

While it doesn’t take too long to get your TDL, the process can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you’re just visiting for a short trip.

Important note: The DMT does not issue Temporary Licenses for driving three-wheelers (tuks)