Acquiring a driving license in Sri Lanka is a crucial step for those who wish to operate a vehicle legally within the nation. First Time Vs. Renewal When applying for a driving license, understanding the driving license fees is essential in either case as you have to pay for the license whether it is a first-time application or a renewal. This is a complete guide to the various categories of driving licenses, fee structures, and other costs in Sri Lanka.
Three levels of driving license: Driving License Fee in Sri Lanka
In Sri Lanka, the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) is the institution which maintains motor vehicle and its license-related data in Sri Lanka where they have different types of driving licenses offer based on the category of vehicle and the applicant’s requirements. The main categories include:
Learner’s Permit – Given to people who are learning how to drive.
Temp driving license – Issued to new drivers until their formal license has been processed.
Permanent Driving License – Granted after passing the necessary examinations.
International Driving Permit (IDP) – A document that allows Sri Lankan citizens to drive overseas.
Fee Structure: Driving License Fee in Sri Lanka
The cost to obtain a driving license in Sri Lanka is dependent on the type of license, vehicle category, and any supplementary services needed. Here is a breakdown of the regular fee arrangement:
Learner’s Permit Fees
Application Fee: LKR 1,000 – 1,500
The fee charged for Medical Medical Test: LKR 500 – 1,000
Fees for the Theory Test: LKR 1,500 – 2,000
FEES FOR A TEMPORARY DRIVING LICENSE
Application Fee: LKR 500 – 1,000
Administrative Fee: LKR 1,000 – 1,500
Fees for the examination : LKR 1,500 – 2,000
Fixed Driving License Costs
Application Fee: LKR 1,500 – 2,500
Practical Test Fee: LKR 2,000 – 3,500
All inclusive fee for issuing the license: between LKR 3,000 – 4,000
Cost of International Driving Licenses
Application Fee: 3,500 LKR – 5,000 LKR
Credential Verification Fees: 2,000 – 3,000 LKR
Issuance Fee : LKR 4,000 – 6,000
Normally it takes 7-14 working days, though they can expedite for an extra fee.
Issuance Period: The IDP is typically valid for a period of one year starting from the issue date.
Driving License Renewal Fees
Renewal Application Fee: LKR 2,000 – 3,000
Mental Health Report Cost: LKR 2,500 – 5,000
Late Fee: LKR 1,500 – 3,000 as per the delay period
LKR 1,500 – 2,500 Processing Fee
Additional Costs
In addition to the regular driving license application & renewal fees, applicants may incur other expenses such as:
(Training school fees) — Private driving schools charge tuition fees of around LKR 10,000–30,000 (USD 50–150) depending on the duration and type of training.
DUPLICATE LICENSE FEES : In the event of loss or damage, a duplicate driving license costs approximately LKR 3,000 – 5,000.
Explore Fees for Priority Processing: If the applicant requests Opel processing, a fee ranging from LKR 2,000 – 5,000 ID may be collected.
Payment Methods
Following are the payments modes made available by the DMT for the driving license fees:
Official DMT website payment via internet.
Payment at designated banks.
Payment at DMT offices across Sri Lanka.
How Can I Apply for a Driving License?
Check if you have the appropriate qualifications and documentation needed to apply for a driving license in Sri Lanka.
Obtain a Learner’s Permit:
Visit the nearest DMT office.
Cover letter with a list of attachments (NIC, medical certificate, photographs)
Pay the relevant fees.
Take and pass the theory exam.
Training and Practical Test:
Get enrolled in a practical training driving school
Take the driving test and pass it.
Receive the Driving License:
Pay the issuance fee and retrieve your license after passing the test.
Conclusion
A clear comprehension of the cost of the driving license process in Sri Lanka aids the applicants in budgeting accordingly and taking the right steps in advance in order to permit enough time for the application process without unnecessary delays. Also, confirm with the Department of Motor Traffic’s official website or their respective offices for any updated fee structure. With proper planning and preparations, the process will go smooth without any hassle.
