Thursday Oct 02, 2025
Thursday Oct 02, 2025
Tuesday, 5 August 2025 02:24 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake interacts with a tourist at the DMT counter at BIA on Sunday
The Rent-A-Car Association of Sri Lanka has welcomed the timely and progressive initiative by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) to open a dedicated office at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake for the issuance of International Driving Permits (IDPs) to foreign nationals arriving in the country.
This new service marks a major step forward in promoting tourist convenience, road safety, and ease of mobility for international visitors who wish to explore Sri Lanka independently. By enabling tourists to obtain the necessary permits upon arrival, this initiative removes a significant barrier and enhances the overall visitor experience.
As the umbrella body representing the self-drive and chauffeur-driven rental car industry in Sri Lanka, the Rent-A-Car Association strongly supports efforts that improve access to transportation and align with the Government’s goals of boosting tourism arrivals and revenue.
“We commend the DMT, the Transport Ministry, and all relevant authorities for their foresight and collaboration in making this facility a reality. This step not only strengthens Sri Lanka’s appeal as a tourist-friendly destination, but also ensures that driving standards and regulations are upheld through proper documentation and verification,” the Association stated.
The Rent-A-Car Association pledges its fullest cooperation with the DMT in ensuring the smooth operation of this initiative and looks forward to further public-private partnerships that will enhance tourism infrastructure in the country.
“We commend the DMT, the Transport Ministry, and all relevant authorities for their foresight and collaboration in making this facility a reality. This step not only strengthens Sri Lanka’s appeal as a tourist-friendly destination, but also ensures that driving standards and regulations are upheld through proper documentation and verification,” the Association stated.
The Rent-A-Car Association pledges its fullest cooperation with the DMT in ensuring the smooth operation of this initiative and looks forward to further public-private partnerships that will enhance tourism infrastructure in the country.
