How to Get a Number Plate for a Vehicle in Sri Lanka: Current Process

The basic process for getting a number plate for a new vehicle in Sri Lanka today can be described as follows. This work is carried out by the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT).

Address: No. 341, Department of Motor Traffic, Galle Road, Narahenpita, Colombo 05.

Motorcycle registration plates can also be obtained from the district offices of the Department of Motor Traffic located in several major districts of the island. If you want to register a motorcycle from your district without going to Colombo, you can use the following district offices:

Districts: Gampaha, Kurunegala, Galle, Kandy, Anuradhapura, Hambantota, Jaffna

Application Process

The basic process is through the M.T.A. 2 Application Form. Obtain the form from the Head Office of the Department of Motor Transport or from District Secretariats (available free of charge for motorcycles only). This application form must be completed in English.

Required Documents

• Two photographs of the vehicle owner (size 3.5cm x 2.5cm), certified on the back by the Grama Niladhari or importer.
• Photocopy of the owner's National Identity Card / Driving License / Valid Passport (with a Grama Niladhari certificate for the address).
• Custom Clearance Documents.
• Original Payment Receipts of Custom Duty.
• For new vehicles – relevant invoice.
• For used vehicles – Foreign Registration Certificate (with English translation).
• Certificate of Inspection (C.M.T 75).
• Other relevant documents (e.g., Import Permit, MTA 3 Form for Registration of Absolute Ownership).

Once the above documents are ready, the completed application form and all supporting documents should be submitted to the Commissioner of the New Registration Division of the Department of Motor Transport.

Payment and Fees

After submission, the registration fee should be paid to the bank, the payment voucher obtained, and submitted to the relevant counter.

These fees are based on the Motor Transport (Fees) Regulation No. 04 of 2022, effective from 18th November 2022. Minor variations may apply depending on the type of vehicle, engine capacity, and fuel type. It is advisable to check with the Department before payment.

If your vehicle is subject to Luxury Tax or Semi-Luxury Tax before registration, that tax must also be paid. The amount is based on the vehicle’s price and year of import.

Number Plate Fees

• Fee for obtaining a number plate ranges from Rs. 500.00 to Rs. 1,000.00 depending on the vehicle type.
• For example: Rs. 500.00 for motorcycles, Rs. 1,000.00 for cars.
• Special number fee: Rs. 7,500.00 (optional).

All fees must be paid through a bank, and proof of payment must be attached to the application. Payments can usually be made through bank branches located within the Department premises.

Note: These fees are separate from Customs Duty and Port Charges. They apply only to vehicle registration.

Issuance of Documents

After document verification, the Department issues the Vehicle Identification Card, Number Plate, and Registration Certificate.

Currently, there may be some delay in issuing number plates for new vehicles due to the ongoing implementation of the new security-featured number plate system. It is advisable to confirm the current situation with the Department before applying.

Priority / One-Day Service

If you require Priority Service or One-Day Service, you can obtain the Vehicle Identification Card and Registration Certificate (excluding the number plate) on the same day by applying at the Colombo Head Office. (Note: Fees may vary.)