Why renting a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka is the journey of a lifetime

Renting a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka is so much more than just traveling. It gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, without being tied to schedules or the usual tourist routes. Feel like stopping for a refreshing King Coconut at a cozy roadside stall? No problem. See a mountain peak you just have to check out? Just drive there!

What I loved most was the spontaneous connection with the locals. Everywhere you go, a friendly driver waves, children smile, and casual conversations arise out of nowhere. You instantly feel like a part of daily life here. That sense of freedom and the warm encounters make a tuk-tuk adventure truly unforgettable.

For our exact travel route through Sri Lanka, check: Sri Lanka Itinerary: 2 weeks of adventure with your own tuk-tuk.

What do you need to prepare for your tuk-tuk trip? The driver’s license and practical tips

Before you can get behind the wheel of your own tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, there are a few things you need to arrange. The most important is a valid driver’s license from your home country. With this, you can apply for a local Sri Lankan driving permit, which is required to drive a tuk-tuk.

Option 1: Bring an international driving permit

If you live in the Netherlands or Belgium, you can easily apply for an international driving permit (IDP) at organizations like the ANWB. This is a translation of your regular driver’s license and usually costs around €20. Make sure to bring it, as it makes the application for a local driving permit in Sri Lanka faster and easier.

Option 2: Use your regular driver’s license

No international driving permit? No problem! TukTuk Rental can assist you even if you only have a valid driver’s license from your home country. They arrange the translation and necessary documents for you to obtain a Sri Lankan driving permit. This process may take a bit longer, so it’s a good idea to send your documents in advance.

How does the application for a local driving permit work?

When you rent a tuk-tuk through TukTuk Rental, they take care of everything for you. Once you’ve made your booking, you’ll receive clear instructions on which documents to submit. Usually, these include:

• A scan of your regular or international driving permit
• A scan of your passport
• Some personal details

Within a few days after your arrival in Sri Lanka, your local driving permit will be ready. This document is required to legally drive on the road and is accepted during police checks.

Practical tips for a good preparation

• Plan ahead: Start at least two weeks before your trip with applying for your international driving permit or arranging the necessary documents for TukTuk Rental.
• Watch an instruction video: If you’ve never driven a tuk-tuk before, it can be helpful to watch a video beforehand on how a tuk-tuk works. This will make you feel more confident during your first ride.
• Leave some flexibility in your schedule: Sometimes, obtaining a local driving permit can take a bit longer, depending on holidays or busy periods. Make sure to have some flexibility in your travel schedule.

Driving lesson and support: why TukTuk Rental is so convenient

Once you arrive at TukTuk Rental, you’ll receive a thorough driving lesson. I found this to be a huge advantage, as they guide you step by step on how to operate the tuk-tuk. The first few minutes behind the wheel can be a bit nerve-wracking, but the instructors are patient and make sure you hit the road with confidence. They teach you how to shift gears (since a tuk-tuk has a manual transmission!), how to navigate turns, and what to do if you accidentally stall.

What I really appreciated is that TukTuk Rental doesn’t just stop at the driving lesson. They offer 24/7 support throughout your entire trip. Got a flat tire or a breakdown on the road? No worries, you can always call them, and they’ll make sure you’re back on track quickly. That gave me so much peace of mind, especially when we actually had some trouble! Luckily, we broke down right in front of a tuk-tuk repair shop, and the locals immediately jumped in to help.

Additionally, you’ll be part of a WhatsApp group with everyone who is also renting a tuk-tuk at that time. This is perfect for asking for help or getting tips on which route is more scenic!

What is it really like to drive a tuk-tuk yourself in Sri Lanka?

I’ll be honest: the first few minutes behind the wheel took some getting used to. You drive on the left, and traffic in Sri Lanka is chaotic, especially in the cities. There are cars, buses, tuk-tuks, bicycles, and pedestrians all moving in what seems like complete disorder. The unwritten rule in Sri Lanka seems to be: the bigger the vehicle, the more right of way it has. Buses, in particular, can come speeding through, and you often have to swerve to avoid an accident. Our main tip is to stay calm but always stay alert; especially when a bus is approaching!
We personally found the traffic outside the cities quite manageable. The roads in the mountains can be steep, but the tuk-tuk can handle a lot. After a day or two of solid driving, you get used to it, and before you know it, you’re honking along with everyone else!

Take your time and enjoy, the views are often incredible! Renting a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka is one of our best memories!