Do you need an international driving permit to rent a scooter/motorbike in Sri Lanka, and what happens if you drive without one?

At the airport on arrival, you can get a local motorbike permit if you have your national driving license with a motorcycle (category A) endorsement.

Riding without a valid license/permit carries a fine of 25,000 LKR for the rider and another 25,000 LKR for the bike's owner. In case of an accident, insurance won't cover you since you'll automatically be found at fault.

In Colombo you can get a one-year local driving license in about an hour with any valid national license (international permit not required) plus a photo. No exam needed — costs around 5000 LKR.

You need a category A (motorcycle) endorsement. Options: bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) plus your national license, or get a local permit right at the airport upon arrival.

Power outlets in Sri Lanka don't always fit standard European plugs — some travelers use a trick like inserting a chopstick into the top hole of the socket to make the plug fit, or simply buy a local adapter, which are widely sold on-site.