How to Get a Sri Lankan Driving Permit Through the Automobile Association of Ceylon

Planning to explore Sri Lanka by car? If you are visiting Sri Lanka with a foreign driving licence, you need the appropriate Sri Lankan driving permit or recognition to legally drive a rental car during your stay.

One convenient option is to arrange the permit through the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AA Ceylon).

Get Your Driving Permit Before Arriving in Sri Lanka

If you would like to save time after landing, you can arrange your driving permit before you arrive in Sri Lanka.

This facility is available through the rental company you choose, which can arrange the application with the Automobile Association of Ceylon on your behalf.

You do not necessarily need to visit the Automobile Association yourself.

How Does It Work?

1. Choose your rental company — Book your rental car with a Sri Lankan rental company that offers this service.
2. Send your required documents — The rental company will tell you what documents are required. These may include a passport copy, valid foreign driving licence, International Driving Permit (IDP) and passport-size photograph.
3. The rental company arranges the application — The rental company submits the required documents to the Automobile Association of Ceylon for processing.
4. Your permit is prepared before your arrival — Once the application is processed, the required driving permit can be arranged for you before you arrive in Sri Lanka.
5. Collect your rental car and permit — When you arrive in Sri Lanka, your rental company can provide the permit according to the agreed arrangements, allowing you to start your road trip without having to visit the AA Ceylon office yourself.

How Much Does It Cost?

The price for arranging the driving permit starts at around USD 35–50.

The exact price can vary depending on the service provider and the applicant's requirements.

It is recommended to confirm the final price with your chosen rental company before making the booking.

Automobile Association of Ceylon

The Automobile Association of Ceylon is located at:

40 Sir Mohamed Macan Markar Mawatha Colombo 03, Sri Lanka

The driving permit facility described above is handled through the Automobile Association of Ceylon, while the rental company you choose can assist with arranging the service before your arrival.

Why Arrange It Before Arrival?

Arranging your permit before travelling can make your arrival much easier.

• Avoid visiting an office after arriving
• Save time at the beginning of your holiday
• Have your driving documentation arranged in advance
• Collect your rental car and start your journey more conveniently

Choose Your Rental Company

If you are planning to rent a car in Sri Lanka, ask your rental company whether they can arrange the AA Ceylon driving permit before your arrival.

At Colombo Rent a Car – Pearl Travel & Tours, we can assist customers with arranging their driving permit through the Automobile Association of Ceylon as part of their rental arrangements.

Arrive Ready to Drive

Arrange your driving permit before you arrive, collect your rental car, and start exploring Sri Lanka with peace of mind.

Your Sri Lankan road trip starts before you land! 🇱🇰🚗