Does National require an IDP in Sri Lanka?
National in Sri Lanka: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.
Sri Lanka drives on the left and requires foreign drivers to validate an IDP locally; tourists should carry one with their national licence.
In Sri Lanka specifically, sri Lanka legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so National will ask for it at the counter. An IDP must usually be endorsed by the AA of Ceylon before driving.
National runs a global network; at its Sri Lanka desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Sri Lanka drives on the left, uses the LKR, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.
What to bring to the National counter in Sri Lanka
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the LKR deposit; Sri Lanka drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Sri Lanka National renters should know
- Drive on the left.
- IDP requires local validation/recognition permit.
- 0.06% alcohol limit.
- Watch for tuk-tuks, buses and animals.