Mietwagen in Sri Lanka: Guide for German-Speaking Visitors Renting a Car

Driving on the left after driving on the right

Sri Lanka has left-hand traffic, so the driver sits on the right and the gearstick, if the car is manual, is on the left. The first hour is the most difficult. Begin on a quiet road, take care at junctions and at roundabouts, where you give way to traffic on your right, and say the rule aloud: 'stay left'. Many visitors adapt in a day. If you prefer not to, a chauffeur-driven car is a calm way to start; see chauffeur-driven tours.

Licence and International Driving Permit

Under our rental terms, a foreign driver must hold a valid national licence and either a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) or a temporary endorsement from the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC). In Germany the IDP is issued by the local licensing authority (Führerscheinstelle). Austrian and Swiss drivers apply through the authorities and motoring clubs of their countries. Apply well before your flight, because it can take days or weeks.

Rules for foreign drivers in Sri Lanka have changed several times, so check the current requirements with the AAC or the Department of Motor Traffic before you fly. See our guide to driving licence rules for tourists.

Planning: allow for the road, not for the map

German travellers tend to schedule days closely. In Sri Lanka, add generous buffers. A 100 km section can take three hours or more, particularly in the hills and near towns. Plan no more than three to four hours of driving per day, and avoid driving after dark.

Insurance and responsibilities

Our vehicles carry commercial rent-a-car insurance. A standard excess applies and is stated in the rental agreement, so you know your maximum liability in advance. The insurance does not apply if the driver is unlicensed, intoxicated or grossly negligent, or if someone who is not named in the agreement drives. The hirer pays traffic fines and expressway tolls. We suggest that you read the terms and conditions before you book, and that you take out your own travel insurance in addition.

Vehicle choice

Many German-speaking visitors prefer a comfortable, safe car for the long days, so a Honda Vezel, Toyota C-HR or Toyota Land Cruiser Prado is popular. Hybrid cars use less fuel on long journeys. Automatic gearboxes are common in the fleet. If you want a European make, ask about the Mercedes-Benz and Audi in the fleet; see Europe cars for hire.

Communication

Our team communicates in English, and WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach us. You can send your booking request in English or use a simple message with your dates, route and number of passengers. A confirmed booking and a written rental agreement follow.