The governments of Sri Lanka and Italy have formally renewed the bilateral agreement on the mutual recognition of driving licences, strengthening long-standing cooperation between the two countries.
The renewed agreement was signed on Friday, 12 December 2025, in Rome. Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Italy, Satya Rodrigo, signed on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka, while Italy’s Deputy Minister and Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Maria Tripodi, signed on behalf of the Government of Italy.
The signing marks the successful conclusion of negotiations between the motor transport and traffic authorities of both countries to renew the agreement, which had expired in 2021. The agreement facilitates the validation of driving licences for individuals who hold permanent residence in either country.
Sri Lanka and Italy first signed the agreement in 2011. It was renewed in 2016 before expiring in 2021. The renewed agreement allows nationals of both countries who have resided in the host country for up to six years to use their national driving licence without being required to sit for theoretical or practical driving tests.
The agreement has been particularly welcomed by the large Sri Lankan community living and working in Italy, as it improves employment prospects and supports their contribution as a productive expatriate community.
The renewed agreement will remain valid for five years. Following ratification by both governments, it will enter into force within 60 days, after which official notifications will be issued by both parties.
