23/02/2026
🚨 Important Notice for Vehicle Owners & Tourism Operators
The Sri Lanka Police have made an urgent request to vehicle owners and those involved in the tourism industry to avoid renting vehicles to foreign tourists who do not have a valid driving licence.
The main reason for this decision is the rapid increase in road accidents caused by unlicensed foreign drivers. Police Media Spokesperson F.U. Wootler stated that in 2025 alone, 5 deaths have been reported due to such accidents.
🚗 Current Risk & Statistics
According to recent police reports involving vehicles driven by unlicensed foreigners:
• Fatal accidents: 5 deaths reported in 2025
• Serious accidents: 7 incidents last year
• Minor injuries: 78 reported cases
• Vehicle damages: 6 reported cases
Investigations have revealed that many vehicle owners are renting cars, three-wheelers, and motorcycles to tourists without checking for proper licences.
⚖️ Legal Situation
Under the Motor Traffic Act, allowing a person without a valid driving licence to drive is a punishable offence.
This means: ❌ The foreign driver is responsible
❌ The vehicle owner is also legally responsible
Special traffic inspections have already begun, especially in tourist areas in the Southern Province.
🟢 Documents Required for Foreigners to Drive in Sri Lanka
To legally drive in Sri Lanka, a foreign national must have:
✅ A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) for the relevant vehicle category
✅ A Sri Lankan driving licence issued by the Department of Motor Traffic
✅ A temporary Sri Lankan driving permit (Conversion Certificate) based on their foreign licence
Special Note: An International Driving Permit alone is NOT enough to drive a three-wheeler. A special local authorization is required.
Protecting the tourism industry and safeguarding lives on our roads is everyone’s responsibility.
If you rent out vehicles, please think about human lives before money.
Please share this message to raise awareness. 🙏