Department of Motor Traffic announces crackdown on vehicle ownership transfers
Sri Lanka's Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) has issued a firm warning to vehicle buyers and sellers across the country, announcing that regulations governing the transfer of vehicle ownership will be strictly enforced beginning December 1.
The move signals a tougher stance by the DMT on a process that has long been treated casually by many Sri Lankans, with informal vehicle sales often taking place without the required paperwork being properly completed or submitted on time.
What this means for buyers and sellers
Anyone planning to buy or sell a vehicle in the coming weeks is being urged to familiarise themselves with the official transfer procedures and ensure all documentation is in order before the December 1 deadline arrives. Failure to comply with the regulations once enforcement begins could expose both parties in a transaction to legal and administrative consequences.
The DMT's announcement serves as a timely reminder that vehicle ownership transfers are a legal obligation, not merely a formality. Leaving a vehicle registered under a previous owner's name — a common practice in Sri Lanka — can create serious complications related to revenue licences, insurance, fines, and liability in the event of an accident.
A call for public compliance
Members of the public are encouraged to act promptly and visit their nearest DMT office to complete any pending transfer transactions well ahead of the enforcement date. Key steps typically involved in a vehicle transfer include:
- Submission of the original vehicle revenue licence and registration certificate
- Completion of the official ownership transfer form
- Payment of the applicable transfer fee
- Verification of the vehicle identification number
With December 1 fast approaching, the DMT's message is clear: the era of overlooking vehicle transfer obligations is coming to an end, and both buyers and sellers must take their responsibilities seriously under Sri Lankan motor traffic law.
💬 Join the Discussion 3
See what readers are saying — and add your view.
what happens if you bought a car recently and didnt transfer yet, any grace period?
finally they enforcing this properly, so many ppl selling cars without transferring
enforcing yes but goverment offices wont even have enough staff to handle the rush