Guides · Sri Lanka

Driving licence renewal in Sri Lanka

Written from published rules on 26 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Department of Motor Traffic (DMT), Sri Lanka (මෝටර් රථ දෙපාර්තමේන්තුව).

Renewing a Sri Lankan driving licence involves submitting an application and required documents to the Department of Motor Traffic, typically requiring a medical examination and verification of identity.

Your timing

It is advisable for individuals to begin the renewal process several weeks before their current licence expires. This allows ample time to schedule a medical examination, gather all necessary documents, and account for potential waiting times at the Department of Motor Traffic or for processing the application.

Start 30 days ahead

This allows for scheduling a medical examination, collecting all necessary documents, and potential processing times at the Department of Motor Traffic.

The process

  1. 1Undergo a mandatory medical examination at a National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) approved center and obtain the medical certificate.
  2. 2Complete the driving licence renewal application form, which can typically be obtained from the DMT website or office.
  3. 3Gather all required supporting documents, including the current driving licence, National Identity Card (NIC), and the medical certificate.
  4. 4Submit the completed application form and all supporting documents in person to a Department of Motor Traffic office.
  5. 5Pay the applicable renewal fee.
  6. 6Collect the renewed driving licence once it has been processed and issued by the DMT.

What to bring

  • Current driving licence
  • National Identity Card (NIC) or valid passport (for non-citizens)
  • Medical Certificate issued by the National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI)
  • Completed driving licence renewal application form

Who handles it

Department of Motor Traffic (DMT), Sri Lanka (මෝටර් රථ දෙපාර්තමේන්තුව)

https://dmt.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=105&Itemid=140&lang=en

The exact fee for renewing a driving licence varies depending on the validity period chosen (e.g., 3 years or 5 years) and any additional endorsement categories. This fee is typically specified by the Department of Motor Traffic and can be confirmed on their official website or at their offices.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure the medical certificate is current and obtained from an authorized NTMI center.
  • Verify the specific documents required, as they may vary slightly for different licence categories or for foreign nationals.
  • Check the operating hours and any appointment requirements of the Department of Motor Traffic office before visiting.
  • Be aware that there may be separate fees for the medical examination and the licence renewal itself.

Sources

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