Can You Drive a Tuktuk in Sri Lanka with an International Driving Permit? (2025 Guide)

No, you cannot drive a TukTuk in Sri Lanka, motor car, or motorcycle in Sri Lanka with just your International Driving Permit (IDP). According to Sri Lankan regulations, all foreign travelers must obtain a local Tuktuk driving permit issued by the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AA) in Colombo.
The process is quick and easy—you can get your Sri Lankan permit in about 30 minutes, as long as you bring the correct documents. Alternatively, our service, TukTuk Booking Sri Lanka, can help arrange your permit before you arrive.

🧾 Required Documents for Sri Lankan Driving Permit:

To apply for your permit in Sri Lanka, you’ll need:

1. A copy of your passport
2. A copy of your International Driving Permit (front page + category page)
3. A passport-sized photo of yourself

Tip: Don't forget these documents—they're essential for a smooth process.

🕒 AA Colombo Office Info:

1. Location: 3rd Floor, Automobile Association of Ceylon, Colombo
2. Opening Hours: Weekdays only, 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM ( Saturday, Sunday Closed )
3. Cost: Around LKR 8,500 (≈ $29 USD)

✅ How to Get Your Tuktuk Driving Permit in Sri Lanka

Option 1: Apply in Person

Go directly to the Automobile Association in Colombo with your documents and apply. The process takes about 30 minutes.

Option 2: Use Our Service – TukTuk Booking Sri Lanka

Let us handle it for you! Here's how:

• Send your documents to our email or WhatsApp before arrival.
• We’ll arrange your permit in advance.
• On arrival, come directly to us, pick up your TukTuk and your driving permit, and start your journey on day one.

Service Cost: $35 USD (includes permit fee, processing, and transport).

Can You Legally Drive a Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka with the Airport-Issued Temporary Permit?

Many travelers arriving in Sri Lanka ask if the temporary driving license issued at the Motor Traffic Department counter at the airport allows them to drive a tuk tuk. The answer is no — this license is only valid for light vehicles such as cars, vans, and motorcycles.

If you want to legally drive a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka, you’ll need to apply for a Sri Lankan (Ceylon) driving license that specifically covers three-wheelers. This process can be done directly through the Department of AA Ceylon for around $29, but it requires submitting documents, a passport photo, and Internation Driving Permit.

To make things easier, we offer a complete tuk tuk driving permit service for just $35, which includes all necessary documentation, photographs, and handling fees. We take care of everything before your arrival, so your tuk tuk and your permit will be ready when you land — hassle-free.

Want to explore Sri Lanka by tuk tuk? Contact us today, and we’ll handle the rest!

Can You Rent a Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka Without an International Driving License?

Don't Have an International Driving Permit? No Worries!

If you're planning to rent a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka but don’t have an International Driving Permit (IDP) — no problem! We can help you apply for one online, and it only costs $25 USD.

As long as you have a valid driving license from your home country, our team at TukTuk Booking Sri Lanka will take care of everything else — including your IDP, local permit, and all the required paperwork.

All we need is your confirmation, and we’ll handle the rest so your tuk tuk and permits are ready when you arrive. Just contact us, and you’re good to go!

💬 Final Tips:

• Make sure your IDP includes the correct vehicle category (Car or Motorcycle).
• Plan ahead, especially if arriving on a weekend (AA is closed).
• Got Questions About Renting a Tuk Tuk?
• Just reach out! We’re happy to answer anything and help you plan your tuk tuk adventure in Sri Lanka.