New Licensing Requirements for Driving a Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka

New Licensing Requirements for Driving a Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka (Effective January 2026)

If you are planning to travel to Sri Lanka and dream of exploring the island behind the wheel of a tuk tuk, it is essential to be aware of an important update to the driving licence requirements for foreign travellers.

Starting January 2026, Sri Lankan authorities will enforce stricter rules for issuing local driving recognition permits to foreign drivers. Failing to meet these requirements could prevent travellers from legally driving a tuk tuk during their stay.

Documents Required to Drive a Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka

To legally drive a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka, travellers must carry all three of the following documents:

• A valid driving licence issued by the traveller’s home country
• A physical International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, obtained in the traveller’s home country
• A Sri Lankan Recognition / Covering Permit issued locally by the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC)

Key Update from the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC)

As of January 2026, the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) will only process Sri Lankan recognition or covering permits for foreign drivers who meet the following conditions:

• They hold a valid home country driving licence
• They present a physical International Driving Permit (IDP)
• The IDP must be issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention

Digital or electronic International Driving Permits (E-IDPs will NOT be accepted). Travellers must have the original physical document in hand.

Why This Change Matters

Many travellers underestimate how long it takes to obtain an International Driving Permit in their home country. Feedback from recent visitors shows that a significant number of travellers attempted to arrange an IDP at the last minute and were unable to do so in time.

As a result, some travellers experienced delays, unexpected changes to their plans, or missed the opportunity to drive a tuk tuk altogether—an experience that is often a highlight of travelling through Sri Lanka.

Plan Ahead

IDP Application Is Essential

The IDP must be obtained before travelling to Sri Lanka, as it cannot be issued locally. Processing times, required documents, and fees vary depending on the traveller’s home country.

In many countries, issuing authorities require:

• A valid domestic driving licence
• Passport-sized photographs
• An application form
• Several days (or longer) for processing

Applying well in advance is strongly recommended to avoid unnecessary stress or disappointment upon arrival.

Local Recognition Permit in Sri Lanka

Even with a valid home country licence and an International Driving Permit, travellers must still obtain a Sri Lankan Recognition / Covering Permit issued by the AAC.

This local permit validates the foreign licence for legal use on Sri Lankan roads and is mandatory when driving a tuk tuk.

What Travellers Should Do Before Their Trip

• Check that their home country driving licence is valid
• Apply for a physical IDP (1949 Geneva Convention) well in advance
• Confirm arrangements for obtaining the Sri Lankan recognition permit
• Carry all documents at all times while driving

Final Thoughts

Driving a tuk tuk is one of the most immersive and memorable ways to experience Sri Lanka. However, with the updated regulations coming into effect in January 2026, proper preparation is more important than ever.

By ensuring that all required documents are obtained ahead of time, travellers can enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey and make the most of their adventure on the island.