Police yesterday (19) announced the launch of special inspections and traffic operations in response to an increase in road accidents involving foreign nationals.
Police Headquarters said the programme has commenced in the Southern Province and is aimed at monitoring and preventing the provision of vehicles to foreign tourists who do not possess a valid driving licence.
Police stated that foreign nationals visiting Sri Lanka frequently hire vehicles for travel within the country. However, investigations have revealed that certain taxi operators and vehicle owners have been renting or leasing motor vehicles, three-wheelers and motorcycles to foreign tourists without verifying whether they hold valid driving authorisation.
Several such vehicles have subsequently been involved in road traffic accidents, Police said.
Providing statistics, Police reported that in 2025, five foreign nationals lost their lives in road accidents while driving. In addition, seven serious accidents, 78 minor injury incidents and six vehicle damage cases involving foreign drivers were recorded.
Investigations have confirmed violations of the Motor Traffic Act by both drivers and vehicle owners. Police warned that legal action will be instituted against tourism sector business operators and related parties found to be acting irresponsibly.
Police also reminded motorists of the legal requirements prior to operating any vehicle. Drivers must ensure the availability and validity of the driving licence, insurance certificate, revenue licence and emission test certificate. They must also confirm the quality and roadworthiness of the vehicle and check for mechanical defects.
Under the Motor Traffic Act, drivers are required to carry a valid driving licence at all times. Police noted that under Section 123(i)(a) of the Act, driving without a valid licence is a punishable offence.
In addition to fines, Police said drivers who cause death or injury while driving without a valid licence may face prosecution under criminal law.
Police further emphasised that when a person without a valid licence, or a minor, is permitted to drive a vehicle, both the driver and the vehicle owner are liable to prosecution under the Act.
Clarifying regulations applicable to foreign nationals, Police said that any foreigner operating a motor vehicle, motorcycle or three-wheeler in Sri Lanka must possess one of the following valid authorisations:
An international driving permit valid for the relevant vehicle class
A Sri Lankan driving permit issued to a foreign resident by the Motor Traffic Department
A conversion certificate issued upon submission of a foreign driving licence to the Motor Traffic Department for the relevant vehicle class
Police noted that conversion certificates are issued at the Department’s head office in Werahera and at the special counter at Bandaranaike International Airport.
Vehicle rental and hiring service providers have been instructed to verify that foreign clients hold one of the recognised driving permits before releasing any vehicle.
Police warned that providing vehicles on a rental, lease or any other basis to a person without a valid driving licence constitutes an offence. In such instances, legal action will be taken against both the service provider and the driver.
Police also cautioned that some foreign nationals have been misled and issued forged or invalid driving licences. Business owners and vehicle providers were advised to remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of documents before handing over vehicles.