Getting an AAC endorsement to drive a rented Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka

Seen by 1,254 travellers
Jump to the accepted answer
C
Clara F.7225 rep2

I have an International Driving Permit IDP stamped for motorcycles and cars. Do I still need to visit the Automobile Association of Ceylon AAC in Colombo to get a specific endorsement for a three-wheeler before I drive to the surf camps.

20

3 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. An IDP for a car (Class B) or motorcycle (Class A) does not automatically cover a three-wheeler (Class G) under Sri Lankan law. You must visit the AAC office in Colombo with your IDP, passport, and a passport-sized photo to get the specific local endorsement. If you get pulled over without this, the police will fine you for driving without a valid license.

43
M
Mr. Perera.7560 rep1

Do not skip this! The traffic police along the Galle Road actively look for foreigners driving tuk-tuks to check their paperwork. It is an instant 25,000 LKR fine if you do not have the local endorsement stamp.

21
L
Liam W.12605 rep2

Many reputable tuk-tuk rental companies will actually process this AAC endorsement for you before you arrive. You just send them a scan of your IDP and passport, and the paperwork is waiting in the glovebox when you pick up the vehicle.

10
R
Ruwan D.10960 rep1

Scam Watch: colombo

Broken Meter ScamVerified

Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.

👍 67by virajperera
Government TukTuk ScamVerified

Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.

👍 52by virajperera
Milk Powder Beggar ScamVerified

Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.

👍 25by virajperera
Report a scam →

You must be logged in to post an answer.

Log In to Answer
Browse all questions