Govt extends Revenue licences -Driving licenses validity period

By Chaturanga Samarawickrama  

The Public Administration and Home Affairs Ministry yesterday recommended suspending the issuance of vehicle revenue licences by Divisional Secretariats until March 31 from yesterday.   

Ministry Secretary S. Hettiarachchi said the decision was taken to prevent the public from gathering in groups to minimise the spread of COVID-19 virus and considering it as a responsibility of the Government.   Accordingly, the Ministry had instructed all Divisional Secretariats including the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) not to issue vehicle revenue licences or related services till the end of this month, Mr. Hettiarachchi said. 

 
However, since the online system has expanded, the revenue licensing service has the potential to issue the revenue licences, he said.   

The Secretary further said issuing revenue licences would not be subject to arrears and fines for the period of suspension by the Divisional Secretariats. Also advised the licence holders to use the online service to minimise the inconvenience incurred by the Divisional Secretariat.   

The Sri Lanka Police would notify to provide relief on Highway Inspection for persons who delay in obtaining relevant revenue licences up to March 31, he added.   

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Mahinda Amaraweera yesterday said the validity period of driving licenses expiring between March 16 and April 15 had been extended until June 30.   
The issuance and renewing of driving licenses and practical and written examinations have also been temporarily suspended due to the spread of COVID-19 until the said date.

• The Sri Lanka Police would notify to provide relief on Highway Inspection for persons who delay in obtaining relevant revenue licences up to March 31