From zero to a driving licence, step by step
Everything you need to know to get a brand-new Sri Lankan driving licence — and how to renew one once you have it.
Getting your first licence
Seven steps from application to holding a full driving licence.
- Step 01
Apply for a learner's permit
Submit your application to the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) with your NIC, photographs and the prescribed form for the vehicle class you want (motorcycle, light vehicle, heavy vehicle, etc). Applications can be made online or in person at your nearest DMT office.
- Step 02
Medical fitness check
A basic eyesight and medical fitness check is required as part of the application, especially for heavy vehicle and older applicants. This confirms you're fit to drive before a learner's permit is issued.
- Step 03
Get your learner's permit
Once approved, your learner's permit is issued — through our Hambantota DMT branch, this can be done in as little as a single day. This permit lets you begin supervised practice on the road, with an 'L' board displayed.
Step 04Train with a licensed instructor
Complete your practical training under an instructor who holds an official instructor's licence, covering vehicle control, road rules, hazard awareness and manoeuvring — everything you'll be tested on later.
Step 05Pass the written exam
Sit the DMT's written examination on road signs, traffic rules and safe-driving knowledge. This is exactly what our free online practice papers are built to prepare you for — practise until you're consistently scoring well.
Step 06Pass the practical driving test
Once you're confident and your instructor agrees you're ready, sit the practical test with a DMT examiner — demonstrating control, road positioning, junctions, reversing and safe decision-making.
- Step 07
Receive your driving licence
Pass both exams and your full driving licence is issued for that vehicle class — an official licence recognised across Sri Lanka.
Renewing your licence
Already licensed? Here's how to renew before it expires.
- 1
Check your licence's expiry date — Sri Lankan driving licences are valid for a fixed period and must be renewed before they lapse.
- 2
Fill in the renewal application form, available at DMT offices, or download it from the DMT website.
- 3
Attach a recent medical certificate if required for your age group or vehicle class (commonly needed for heavy vehicle licences and older applicants).
- 4
Submit the form with your current licence, NIC copy and photographs — either at a DMT office or, for many licence classes, at an authorised post office renewal counter.
- 5
Pay the renewal fee and collect your renewed licence, valid for a further period from the date of renewal.
Renewal windows, fees and required documents can change — always confirm the current requirements with your nearest DMT office or on the official DMT website before you go.
Have questions about the process?
Talk to us — we guide students through every step, from the learner's permit to the final test.