How to Get Your First Driving Licence in Sri Lanka
Getting your first driving license in Sri Lanka may seem complicated, especially if you are unfamiliar with the application process. However, by following the correct steps, preparing the required documents, and understanding the examination requirements, you can work towards obtaining your license without unnecessary delays.
For light vehicles, the process generally involves obtaining a medical fitness certificate, applying through the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT), passing the written examination, practicing with a learner's permit, and passing the practical driving test.
This guide explains each step, the documents you need, the applicable fees, and useful tips to help you get started.
Step 1: Obtain Your Medical Fitness Certificate
Before applying for your first driving license, you must obtain a medical fitness certificate to confirm that you meet the required medical standards for driving.
The National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) provides medical examinations for driving license applicants.
How to book your medical appointment
Visit the official NTMI appointment booking portal.
Enter your identification details and contact information.
Select the available district office, service, date, and time.
Complete the booking process and keep your appointment details.
Some NTMI branches require appointments through the eChannelling system, so check the arrangements for your preferred branch before visiting.
Medical examination fee
The listed fee for a new light motor vehicle driving license medical certificate is LKR 1,500. An additional convenience fee may apply when booking online.
What should you bring?
Your original National Identity Card (NIC) or a valid passport, as applicable.
Your appointment confirmation and any other requested documents.
Your glasses or corrective lenses if you use them.
Your medical certificate must generally be obtained within six months of applying for a new driving license. Check the latest NTMI requirements before booking.
Step 2: Find Your Nearest Department of Motor Traffic Office
You do not necessarily need to travel to Colombo to apply for your driving license. The DMT provides services through its head office, Werahera office, and designated district offices.
However, the services available can vary by location. Confirm whether your preferred office handles new driving license applications and written examinations before traveling.
Main DMT locations
DMT Werahera Office
Department of Motor Traffic Road, Boralesgamuwa, Sri Lanka.
Telephone: 011 251 8926 / 011 251 8950
You can also visit the official DMT website to find information about district offices and available services.
Tip: Contact the relevant office before your visit to confirm appointment requirements, operating hours, and document requirements.
Step 3: Check Your Eligibility and Prepare the Required Documents
Before submitting your application, make sure you meet the age requirements and have all the necessary documents ready.
Age requirements for light vehicles
According to the DMT's published guidance:
Written examination: You must have completed 17 years of age.
Practical driving test: You must have completed 18 years of age.
Learner’s Permit: Issued after passing the written examination, subject to the applicable requirements.
The Learner’s Permit can be issued for a maximum period of 18 months.
Documents required
Prepare the following documents before visiting the DMT office:
Original National Identity Card or a valid passport with the NIC number.
Original birth certificate for a first-time driving license application.
Medical fitness certificate obtained within the previous six months.
Any application forms or additional documents requested by the relevant DMT office.
The applicant must attend in person.
At offices with computerized services, your photograph is generally taken digitally. At offices using the offline process, two black-and-white passport-sized photographs with a white background may be required.
Confirm the photo requirements with your selected office before travelling.
Step 4: Submit Your Application and Pay the Applicable Fee
Once your documents are ready, visit the relevant DMT office and follow its application procedure.
The officer will check your documents and guide you through registration for the written examination.
DMT application fees
The DMT's published fee schedule lists the following application fees for a new learner's permit and driving license:
These are the published DMT application charges. Confirm the current fee and service availability before applying. Medical examination fees, driving school charges, and other applicable expenses may be additional.
For the latest details, refer to the official DMT service charges.
Step 5: Prepare for the Written Examination
The written examination assesses your understanding of road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices.
Preparing in advance can help you approach the examination with greater confidence.
What should you study?
Focus on:
Road signs and their meanings.
Traffic signals and road markings.
Right-of-way rules and junctions.
Speed limits and safe following distances.
Overtaking rules and pedestrian safety.
General road safety and responsible driving.
Study the relevant traffic rules and practice recognizing road signs before your examination.
What happens after you pass?
Once you pass the written examination, you will be issued a Learner’s Permit, subject to the applicable requirements.
The permit allows you to practice driving under the conditions prescribed by law. It is not a full driving license.
Follow all permit conditions and practice with a qualified driving instructor or through an appropriate driving school.
Step 6: Practice Driving and Build Your Skills
After receiving your Learner’s Permit, use the permitted practice period to develop your driving skills.
Regular practice can help you become more comfortable with vehicle controls, road conditions, and traffic situations.
Skills to practice
Starting, stopping, and controlling the vehicle smoothly.
Steering and maintaining the correct road position.
Using mirrors and checking blind spots.
Turning, changing lanes, and navigating junctions.
Reversing and parking safely.
Following traffic signs and road markings.
Maintaining a safe distance from other road users.
Do not focus only on passing the examination. Building safe driving habits is essential for protecting yourself and others on the road.
Step 7: Take the Practical Driving Test
For a light vehicle driving license, you must have completed 18 years of age and held your Learner’s Permit for at least three months before taking the practical test.
Once you meet these requirements, follow the DMT's instructions for arranging your examination.
Before your test
Confirm your examination date, time, and location.
Bring your Learner’s Permit and required identification.
Check any additional documents requested by the DMT.
Make sure the test vehicle meets the applicable requirements.
Arrive early and follow the examiner’s instructions.
During the test, demonstrate safe vehicle control, awareness of your surroundings, correct use of traffic rules, and the ability to handle the vehicle responsibly.
If you do not pass, contact the DMT to confirm the procedure, waiting period, and applicable fee for reapplying.
Step 8: Obtain Your Driving License
After successfully passing the practical examination, follow the DMT's instructions to complete the license issuance process.
The relevant office will advise you about the next steps, including the applicable payment, temporary documentation if provided, and collection or delivery of your driving license.
Keep your documents safe and follow the official instructions until you receive your license.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A little preparation can save time and prevent unnecessary delays.
Visiting the wrong office: Confirm that your chosen branch handles new driving license applications.
Bringing incomplete documents: Check the official requirements before your appointment.
Using an expired medical certificate: Make sure your certificate meets the validity requirement.
Starting practical training without understanding the rules: Follow all Learner’s Permit conditions.
Booking the practical test too early: Remember the minimum three-month waiting period and minimum age requirement.
Ignoring additional costs: Budget for medical examinations, driving lessons, application charges, and other applicable expenses.
Final Checklist
Before beginning your driving license application, make sure you have:
Checked the age requirements.
Booked your NTMI medical examination.
Prepared your NIC or valid passport and original birth certificate.
Confirmed your nearest DMT office and its requirements.
Budgeted for the relevant application and medical fees.
Prepared for the written examination.
Planned your driving practice and practical test.
Official Resources
Use these official resources to verify the latest requirements, fees, and appointment procedures before applying.
Department of Motor Traffic (DMT)—New Driving License Requirements
https://dmt.gov.lk/index.php?catid=12&id=48&itemid=164&lang=en&option=com_content&view=articleDMT — Charges for Services
https://dmt.gov.lk/index.php?Itemid=170&id=85&lang=en&option=com_content&view=articleNational Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) — Appointment Booking
https://appointment.ntmi.lk/NTMI — Medical Services and Fees
https://ntmi.lk/services/NTMI—eChanneling Rules and Regulations
https://ntmi.lk/ech_rule_and_regulation/Department of Motor Traffic—Official Website
https://dmt.gov.lk/