Car Rental in Sri Lanka - All You Need To Know
October 12, 2025
While many visitors to Sri Lanka choose to hire their own driver, you can save money by renting a vehicle and helming it yourself.
The tear-drop island is large and varied enough to justify a stay of several weeks, while small enough to navigate with ease. With a modern motorway network connecting much of the country, one of the best ways to explore is by car, which gives you independence and flexibility to take things at your own pace and in your own time. Check out our top tips for renting a car in Sri Lanka below.
Legal Considerations
Most rental firms set the minimum age at 21, with at least two years’ driving experience required. If your licence isn’t in English, carry a certified translation. You’ll also need extra paperwork: either an International Driving Permit (endorsed locally by the Automobile Association of Ceylon) or a temporary permit from the Department of Motor Traffic. Without one of these, you won’t be allowed to collect a hire car.
Sri Lanka drives on the left. Speed limits run at 50 km/h in towns, 70 km/h on rural roads and 100 km/h on expressways. Police checkpoints are common and fines are enforced, so stick to the posted limits. Expect surprises: buses pulling out suddenly, tuk-tuks weaving through traffic, motorbikes appearing from nowhere, even elephants wandering across a rural highway. Allow extra time; part of the adventure is sharing the road with such a mix.
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.06%, and police do carry out random tests. Safest approach is not to drink at all if you’re driving. Seatbelts are compulsory in the front. Child seats aren’t required by law, though most companies recommend them. Roads can be uneven, especially after rain, so caution pays off. Still, driving yourself is a rewarding way to explore, provided you’re patient and keep to the rules.
Insurance
Basic cover is usually bundled into the price, but always check what it means. Collision Damage Waiver policies often come with a high excess, and windscreens, tyres, the roof and undercarriage are usually excluded. Review the policy before you leave the lot, and think about adding extra cover if you plan to head off the main highways.
To avoid unexpected repair bills, you can usually opt for a Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), which removes the excess entirely, though it comes at a higher daily cost depending on the company and vehicle. Some rental firms offer full insurance packages that eliminate your liability and cover windscreens, tyres, the chassis, and wheels. These options are especially useful if you plan to drive on rural or less-maintained roads, where minor scrapes are more likely.
If you’d rather avoid risk altogether, some firms offer a Super Collision Damage Waiver that wipes out the excess, though the daily rate climbs. Others sell “full insurance” packages covering glass, wheels, and chassis damage too. For rougher rural driving, these options buy peace of mind.
Third-party liability cover is compulsory in Sri Lanka and included in every rental. It protects you against damage or injury caused to others – essential for meeting local law, and a good back-up if you’re relying on credit-card insurance.
Tips on Driving in Albania
There are no winter tyres here, since the tropical climate makes them unnecessary. Most vehicles run on all-season tyres, but make sure tread and pressure are checked, especially in monsoon months when roads turn slick.
Highways and city roads are usually in decent shape, but rural and coastal stretches can be narrow, potholed, or flooded after rain. Livestock or slow tractors often block lanes. Take it steady, don’t expect to maintain speed, and factor in extra journey time.
Where to Park
In Colombo, parking is slowly going digital. The ParkSmart app lets you pay by phone and sends reminders before time runs out. Some meters also accept the Dialog Touch Card or bank cards, while others still take cash. Signs on the machine tell you which methods work.
You won’t need to worry about alternate-side parking, but do watch for “No Parking” zones — especially around junctions, bus stops or government offices. Fines and towing happen fast. In Colombo, bays are clearly marked; once you’ve paid by app, card or cash, you’re covered.
Disabled bays are signposted in major cities, though availability is patchy. Sri Lanka doesn’t recognise the EU card, so free priority parking isn’t guaranteed. Beyond towns, parking is often informal and free. At national parks or UNESCO sites, expect to pay a small vehicle entry fee.
Local Rental Agencies
International names like Sixt and Europcar are present, with desks at Bandaranaike International Airport and in Colombo. But many travellers end up with local firms such as SR Rent A Car, Casons, Malkey or Airport Cars Lanka, which often provide more flexible terms and better rates.
SR Rent A Car, established in 2004, runs a fleet of 100-plus vehicles — from small hatchbacks to SUVs and luxury sedans. Cars are typically new and well-kept, with offices near the airport and in main cities. A mid-size sedan can be good value, while an SUV costs a little more but remains affordable.
Casons, around since 1987, has one of the biggest fleets on the island. They rent everything from compact cars to luxury saloons and are known for competitive pricing and personal service, with offices in Colombo, at the airport and beyond.
The Cost of Renting a Car in Sri Lanka
A small economy car usually runs $30–35 per day when booked ahead. Mid-size cars cost a bit more, while SUVs often range from $50–100 depending on model, season and pickup point. Local agencies tend to beat international chains on flexibility and price, especially outside peak periods, so it pays to compare early.