How to renew driving license in Sri Lanka is a popular question most driving license holders ask their friends, colleagues or search in Google. Why is this so? It could be due to the lack of one institute providing reliable public information on the subject.
If based here, how to renew driving license in Sri Lanka?
The following explains how to renew your current Driving Licence with the easiest and fastest way if you are based in Sri Lanka. If you follow these steps you can save valuable time when you renew your driving licence in Sri Lanka. Ultimately, renewing your driving licences is the responsibility of the Department of Motor Traffic (RMV), Werahara, Sri Lanka.
# Step 1 – Where to get the Medical Report
Before your existing driving license is expired you have to get a medical report mentioning you are fit to drive vehicles again. To do that you have to visit the National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) in Nugegoda and get a medical report.
How long will it take for the medical examination?
Generally, the process takes about 2 ½ hours on a busy day. Altogether, this depends on the time you visit NTMI.
What are the documents required at NTMI?
- Should bring a clear National Identity card or a valid passport and the old driving license.
- If the National ID or the driving license or both are lost, bring a Police report obtained within six months. In this instant, bring the details of the driving license obtained from the Department of Motor Traffic.
Kapruka Tip: Go early at least by 7.30 in the morning and stand in line to start the process. After you get the medical report from NTMI you can head straight to RMV, Werahea and handover the documents required to obtain a new driving license.
NTMI online appointment system
You can save a lot of time by navigating the NTMI web site to book a time slot online. At the same time, you can make the payment online. Thus, there are three easy steps to follow to reserve a slot. Accordingly, they are Reservation, followed by Registration and lastly the Payment. The process works fine and seamlessly.
How much does it cost to get a medical report from NTMI?
Light Motor Vehicle Driving License holders have to pay Rs 800. To renew a Heavy Duty Vehicle Driving Licenses you have to pay Rs 1200.
How do I get a medical report if I am based out of Colombo?
You can call NTMI (details below) and get the details. You can also, log into NTMI website (https://ntmi.lk) and search NTMI branches spread throughout Sri Lanka.
Details of National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) in Nugegoda
Address: 170 High-Level Rd, Nugegoda (it is blue coloured building in front of the Flyover in Nugegoda, between CIB Nugegoda and Telecom)
Hours: Open 7.30 in the morning and closes at 2.00 PM
Phone: 0112 852 868
Website: https://ntmi.lk
# Step 2 – After you get the medical report
Once you obtain your medical report from National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) head straight to Department of Motor Traffic (DMT – RMV), Werahara to hand over the documents.
Go to RMV Werahera to renew driving license in Sri Lanka
From Nugegoda head towards Kohuwela junction and opposite the Kohuwela police station is the 120 Horana bus stop. Get into a 120 bus and head to Werahera (The bus generally stops at halt opposite RMV Werahera.
Details of Department of Motor Traffic (DMT RMV), Werahera
Address: Department of Motor Traffic Rd, Boralesgamuwa, Werahera
Time: opens at 9.00 AM and closes at 4 PM
Phone: 0112 518 926
Documents required by RMV to renew driving license in Sri Lanka
- Duly completed MTA 30/2 Offline Application
- Current driving license
- National Identity Card or a valid passport with the national identity card number.
- Medical Fitness certificate obtained from the Sri Lanka National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) within six months.
How much do I have to pay to renew driving license in Sri Lanka?
The payment has to be made at RMV Werahera. For light vehicles and heavy vehicle license, you have to pay Rs 2200 for priority one day service. While, for normal service, you have to pay Rs 1700. Correspondingly, this applies to both classes of vehicles.
When will I get my new renewed license?
Priority service: If you subscribed for priority service you will get your new renewed license on the same day. However, for this be prepared to stay long at RMW. On the positive side, there’s a cafeteria with ample seating within RMV, Werahera for snacks and refreshments.
Normal service: You will be issued a temporary license when you hand over the documents at RMV, Werahera. Your renewed license will be mailed to your residence through registered post. Generally, this takes about three months.
Kapruka Tip: If you have not renewed your license or over a year there’s a fine to pay at RMV, Werahera. So suggest carrying extra cash if you are in this situation.
How to renew driving license in Sri Lanka, if I am outstation?
The process is the same. First, get your medical report from National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) branch located near you. Then visit a District Secretarial Offices for normal service.
Conclusion
Contrary to popular belief renewing your driving license in Sri Lanka is not that difficult. By all means, allocate one day for this as you’ll need to spend time at NTMI, Nugegoda and RMV, Werahera. Since tokens are issued there is no need to stay standing in lines for long periods. Besides, once renewed your license will be valid for 8 years.