Driving in Sri Lanka – A Basic Guide to Motor Traffic
For those who wish to drive in Sri Lanka need to know the following
Things you need
A local driving permit
Rent a Vehicle
A Defensive Driving technique
Step 1 : Get your local driving permit
Why?
Most licenses that tourist show as international licenses could be applicable for a certain geographic area like the European Union but it is not legal to drive with only that.
Even if you have a proper International driver’s license that may have allowed you to drive in other countries, you still need to get your local permit.
Car rental won’t rent to you unless you have a local permit. (Issues with insurance in case of an accident)
So your trip won’t be disturbed by a police stop.
How?
You will need to head to the Department of Motor Traffic to obtain your local permit. (Which means you will need to spend at least a day in Colombo).
It will cost you around LKR 1000/- and couple of hours your morning (if you do it by yourself).
Department of Motor Traffic at Werahara, Boralesgamuwa.
Head over to the DMT early in the morning to avoid a queue and to save time.
Follow to the main building where they receive document from applicants.
You will need your driving license ,pass port , and photocopies just in case.
The process is pretty straight forward, where you will have to go through several counters in which they will check and scan your credentials, take you fingerprints and process payment.
Step 2 : Renting a Vehicle
Where?
There are many car rentals in Colombo. It is best to go for a reputed one with a solid office.
Prices?
Prices are very similar across the board with prices rising based upon the tier of the vehicle.
Rental Calculation and Fuel Mileage Allowance?
The rental is calculated as cost per day and the mileage is allowed is calculated on the same grounds.
Note: Discuss about extra mileage fees.
Deposit for the Vehicle?
Yes, you will have to pay a deposit which will be refunded in full upon return of the vehicle.
Step 3 : Driving in Sri Lanka
We drive on the left side of the road. It shouldn’t be too difficult to adjust to.
Be defensive in your driving technique and be ready to break.
Be wary of the Bikes, Tuktuks and Buses.
Keep your breaking distance and ignore the idiots honking behind you. Bad habits of drivers include changing lanes with proper signaling and abrupt deceleration in the outer lanes in order to park.
Stick to your lane. Lankan traffic is a bit erratic with bikes and tuktuk hugging too close to comfort.
Always check your side mirror before changing your lane and especially when turning. The tuktuk and biker have a bad habit of cutting inside of you on the right hand turns.
Don’t overtake unless you have a clear path. Don’t ever challenge a Bus.
Bikers rarely slow down so give them way and be happy you saved a life or an arm or a leg.
Tuktuk drivers will ruin your holiday. So avoid engaging them.
