The Department of Motor Traffic will open a new counter at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) from today (3 August) to issue driving permits to foreign tourists, enabling them to operate rental vehicles during their stay in Sri Lanka, Commissioner General of Motor Traffic Kamal Amarasinghe announced.

Until now, the service was available only at the Department’s main office in Werahera. However, considering the convenience of tourists, the new facility will operate within the airport premises starting tomorrow, Amarasinghe said.

According to him, many tourists arriving in Sri Lanka often rent vehicles near the airport or surrounding areas and drive themselves during their travels. These include light vehicles, motorcycles, and three-wheelers.

Amarasinghe clarified that under the new system, permits will only be issued for light vehicles and motorcycles. Driving licences for heavy vehicles or three-wheelers will not be granted under this facility.