November 10, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Motor Traffic has unveiled plans to introduce a compulsory Road Fitness Certificate for every vehicle operating on Sri Lankan roads, extending the requirement beyond commercial fleets to include private cars and motorcycles.
Commissioner General of Motor Transport Kamal Amarasinghe said the new certification system would replace the current arrangement, under which only commercial vehicles are required to undergo roadworthiness checks.
The upcoming Road Fitness Certificate will merge the existing Emission and Fitness Certificates into a single document, simplifying the process for motorists while ensuring vehicles meet both environmental and mechanical safety standards.
Amarasinghe explained that the measure aligns Sri Lanka with international best practices, noting that similar systems are already mandatory in most developed countries to maintain safer, cleaner roads. “No vehicle should be allowed on the road unless it meets basic environmental and safety requirements,” he said.
The proposed programme, described as a large-scale and technically complex initiative, will require extensive groundwork before it can be rolled out. Preparatory activities are expected to begin in 2026, with the full implementation scheduled for 2028.
The Commissioner General also confirmed that the current vehicle emission certification system will continue to operate legally until December 31, 2027, ensuring a smooth transition to the new, integrated framework. The reform, he added, aims to improve road safety, reduce pollution, and strengthen regulatory efficiency across the country’s transport network.
