Do I need an International Driving Permit in Sri Lanka?
For visitors on a short trip. The rules depend on where your license was issued. Last reviewed November 3, 2026.
Short answer: Yes, for most visitors. Drivers with a foreign license must carry an official International Driving Permit together with it. A translation does not replace it. Get your IDP before you travel from the official issuer in the country that issued your license. A Sinhala translation can still help with conversations.
At a glance
| IDP for most visitors | Required |
|---|---|
| Does a translation help? | Yes, as an extra to the IDP |
| Main language | Sinhala and Tamil |
| Drives on the | Left |
What to carry
- Your valid driver's license
- Your passport
- An official International Driving Permit. Where to get one
- A Sinhala translation of your license (optional extra)
Our advice: Get an official IDP before you go from the official issuer in the country that issued your license. A translation can help as an extra, but it does not replace the IDP.
Tips for driving in Sri Lanka
- Visitors also need a local endorsement, which you can arrange on arrival.
- Traffic drives on the left.
- Check your rental company's age limits and insurance rules before you book.
Questions about driving in Sri Lanka
Can I drive in Sri Lanka with a foreign driver's license?
Most foreign licenses are only valid together with an official International Driving Permit. Carry both, plus your passport.
Does a license translation help in Sri Lanka?
It can help with conversations, but it does not replace the official IDP that Sri Lanka requires.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Sri Lanka?
The left.
Helpful guides
- License translation vs. International Driving Permit
- Driving abroad by license country (UK, Dutch, Indian, French, German)
- What documents you need to rent a car abroad
- Is an online "international driver's license" legit?
Other country guides
- Driving in Japan
- Driving in Thailand
- Driving in South Korea
- Driving in Australia
- Driving in New Zealand
- Driving in Indonesia (Bali)
- Driving in Philippines
- Driving in Malaysia
Rules change, and acceptance is up to local authorities and rental companies. Check before you travel: EU: driving license recognition (Your Europe) · UK government: driving abroad · US State Department country information. instantEDP is a private translation service, not an IDP issuer. Questions? hello@instantedp.com