Is it safe to rent a scooter in the south, and do I need an international license?
We want to rent a scooter to explore the beaches between Unawatuna and Mirissa. Is the traffic dangerous for foreigners there? Also, is my home country driving license enough, or do the local police check for an international driving permit?
2 Answers
Renting a scooter in the south is very popular, but you need to be aware of the laws and the risks.
Legally, your home country license is not enough. You must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) with the motorcycle endorsement. Furthermore, technically, you are supposed to take that IDP to the Automobile Association in Colombo to get it endorsed for Sri Lanka. In practice, police checkpoints in the south usually just look at your IDP. If you only have your home license, or an IDP without the motorcycle stamp, you will be fined (usually around 25,000 LKR).
Regarding safety: the main coastal road (Galle Road) is busy. You will be sharing it with large red public buses that drive very aggressively and will not stop for you. Always pull over to the left if a bus is coming up behind you or overtaking towards you.
If you are an experienced rider, it is a fantastic way to beach hop. If you have never ridden a scooter before, the busy Sri Lankan coastal road is definitely not the place to learn. Wear your helmet (it is strictly enforced) and do not drink and ride.
Also, take photos and a video of the scooter when you rent it, documenting every scratch. Most rental places are honest, but a few try to charge tourists for pre-existing damage. Rentals cost around 2,000 to 3,000 LKR per day. Make sure they give you a helmet with a functioning strap and visor.
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