Have you ever wondered, when chartering a private car in Sri Lanka, “What qualifications does the driver need?”
DilshanIn fact, the Sri Lankan government has established an official licensing system for drivers who safely transport and guide tourists.
LilyThis article provides a clear introduction to two types of tourist driver qualifications: the Tourist Driver Qualification and the Chauffeur Guide Driver Qualification.
We shall provide a detailed explanation of the respective requirements for obtaining licences, the differences in their roles, comparisons with qualifications offered by private organisations, and the importance of utilising certified drivers.
Please refer to this information to ensure a safe and fulfilling trip to Sri Lanka.
What is the Tourist Driver qualification?
Tourist Driver Qualification is an official tourist driver licence issued by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).
Drivers who have obtained this qualification are ‘government-accredited drivers’ authorised to provide dedicated vehicle transfer services for tourists. To obtain it, they must fulfil basic requirements, including completion of a prescribed short-term training course. Following application, the SLTDA issues a photo ID card.
Tourist Driver-qualified chauffeurs are professionals providing safe transport to tourist destinations, offering reassurance for worry-free travel throughout Sri Lanka.
Experienced drivers may be proficient in foreign languages and have lived abroad, and they will likely be able to advise on itineraries and provide basic information.
RajaHowever, it should be noted that this licence does not include the authority to conduct tourist guide services.
Indeed, the front of the SLTDA-accredited tourist driver licence card clearly states the caution: “NOT FOR Guiding”.
LilyThis means that professional guiding is not permitted at tourist attractions such as ruins and temples. For example, when visiting the World Heritage site Sigiriya Rock, a local specialist guide must be arranged separately.
It is important to bear in mind that the role of a Tourist Driver is strictly limited to ‘safe driving and basic support’.
DilshanOur LankaMe Standard Plan primarily arranges Tourist Drivers! We strive for safe driving and arrange drivers who will accompany you throughout your itinerary!
What is Chauffeur Guide Driver？
The Chauffeur Guide Driver qualification is an official licence for a driver and guide, positioned above the Tourist Driver.
DilshanThe Certified Driver Guide Licence issued by SLTDA is an advanced qualification enabling holders to provide guided tours and commentary while driving for small groups of travellers!
Chauffeur Guide Drivers differ from state-certified guides who accompany tourists on coaches, as they are characterised by their ability to both drive and provide commentary (hence they are also referred to as driver guides).
RajaThe threshold for obtaining this qualification is high, requiring candidates to pass selection examinations and complete training courses administered by the SLTDA. Specifically, applicants must possess a certain level of academic background and language proficiency, and must pass selection via written examinations and interviews.
Following this, a licence is only granted upon completion of a specialised training course lasting approximately six months. The programme encompasses a wide range of subjects, including in-depth knowledge of the history and culture of tourist destinations, customer service etiquette, first aid, and safe driving techniques.
LilyThey are truly the cream of the crop. Even after obtaining their licence, it is subject to annual renewal, requiring the submission of a medical certificate and accident-free record upon renewal, thus ensuring their qualifications are constantly maintained!
Holders of the Chauffeur Guide Driver qualification are officially authorised to conduct sightseeing guide services. Consequently, they are able to accompany customers to various tourist attractions and provide detailed explanations on-site.
For instance, at Sigiriya Rock, the driver himself will accompany you to the summit and recount the history of the ruins. Furthermore, during visits to tea factories or safaris, he will provide support as an interpreter, helping you enjoy the experience without feeling any language barrier.
In this way, the Chauffeur Guide Driver serves as a single individual capable of fulfilling the dual roles of driver and local guide, enabling a more fulfilling journey of a higher calibre.
DilshanOur Platinum Drivers will provide this Chauffeur Guide Driver to attend to your needs!
LilyNot only driving, but also accompanying you to tourist spots and providing commentary! We can arrange jeep tours and ride along with you to give explanations too!
Tourist DriverとChauffeur Guide Driverの比較
DilshanAs outlined above, the two types of qualification have distinct differences in their roles and requirements. A comparison table summarising the key points is provided below.
| Qualification Title | Tourist Driver | Chauffeur Guide Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | SLTDA (Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority) ※Official licence issued by the Government Tourism Authority | SLTDA (Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority) ※A public licence positioned above the Tourist Driver licence |
| Requirements for acquisition | Basic training course attendance (application to be submitted after completion of a workshop lasting several days) | Having passed rigorous selection examinations and completed a six-month training course ※High standards apply in language proficiency and general knowledge |
| Scope of Operations | Exclusively engaged in driving duties (transport to tourist destinations) ※Guiding activities at tourist destinations are not permitted | Driving and sightseeing guidance available (driver-guide) ※ Can also provide accompanying commentary and interpretation at tourist attractions |
| Licence Notice | 「Tourist Driver」ID card (with photograph) ※Stated on the front: “NOT FOR Guiding” | Chauffeur Tourist Guide Licence Certificate ※ Registered with an official ID number as an accredited guide; authenticity verifiable online |
| Advantages | To minimise costs whilst maintaining focus on driving (only vehicle and driver arrangement fees) | No need to hire a separate guide as one person fulfils two roles (enabling efficient and fulfilling sightseeing) |
※All qualifications are official certifications issued by the SLTDA, legally authorising the holder to provide paid tourist transport services. Qualification holders must complete prescribed training and renew their licence annually, with accident-free records and health status also subject to verification.
The Difference Between SLTDA Official Qualifications and NTDA Private Qualifications
Within Sri Lanka, there are organisations other than the SLTDA that issue qualifications and certificates for tourist drivers.
A prime example is the industry body known as the NTDA (National Tourist Drivers Association). As an association for tourist drivers, the NTDA establishes its own training programmes and quality standards, issuing its members with ‘certificates’ and identification cards.
RajaHowever, it is important to note that the licence issued by the NTDA is merely a qualification (membership card) within a private organisation and differs from a public qualification issued by the government.
Below is a comparison table summarising the differences between qualifications issued by government bodies and private organisations.
| Qualification Issuing Body | Overview and Properties | Qualification to be conferred |
|---|---|---|
| SLTDA Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority | The government agency responsible for the tourism sector. It issues official licences to tourist drivers and guides. These are strictly certified following examinations and training, constituting a legally valid operating licence. | Tourist Driver, Chauffeur Guide Driver, etc. (Official Qualifications) ※Annual renewal system; qualification holders can be verified on the official website |
| NTDA All Sri Lanka Tourism Drivers Association | A trade association for tourist drivers (a private organisation). It undertakes some training programmes accredited by the SLTDA, but issues its own certification rather than government-approved operating licences. Drivers join by paying membership fees. | NTDA-issued member ID card (private qualification) ※SLTDA licence holders may additionally obtain this, but the NTDA card alone is not considered official driver qualification. |
LilyIn short, the SLTDA licence is the only government-recognised ‘tourist driver qualification’ in Sri Lanka.
Certification by private organisations including the NTDA does not constitute official authorisation.
Should a driver holding only NTDA certification provide paid passenger transport services to tourists, this would constitute unauthorised operation.
Travellers should therefore verify whether the credentials presented by the driver are issued by the SLTDA.
Beware of unauthorised drivers! Do not choose solely on the basis of low price.
Finally, I should mention a few points to bear in mind when selecting a tour driver.
Unfortunately, there are also drivers in Sri Lanka who operate illegally, transporting tourists without holding government-approved licences.
Particular caution is advised with certain operators advertising “Cheaper than the competition!”, as they may be arranging for such unqualified drivers.
Drivers without official certification often lack adequate training, posing heightened risks in terms of driving etiquette, service quality, and safety.
DilshanMoreover, it has been pointed out that in the event of an accident involving an unlicensed vehicle not legally authorised, insurance may not apply.
Indeed, there have been reported cases where insurance claims were refused for accidents involving unauthorised driving. To safeguard your precious journey, do not be tempted solely by low prices; always verify whether the driver is a reliable, officially licensed professional.
Fortunately, the driver himself holds the original SLTDA licence card.
Before booking, it is advisable to confirm whether the driver holds an official licence as a Tourist Driver or Chauffeur Guide.
On the day of the service, you should also check that the ID card presented by the driver bears the SLTDA logo and hologram. A driver with official qualifications should be able to provide clear answers to such enquiries.
LankaMe: Peace of mind guaranteed! We employ only officially certified Tourist Drivers/Chauffeur Guides
DilshanTo ensure your trip to Sri Lanka is both safe and fulfilling, the most reliable approach is undoubtedly to engage a trustworthy, officially licensed driver.
With our Sri Lanka taxi charter service, LankaMe, you need not worry about this point. This is because all our registered drivers hold either Tourist Driver or Chauffeur Guide Driver qualifications issued by the SLTDA.
LilyBy contracting exclusively with government-approved drivers, we consistently provide our customers with safe and secure transport services.
Furthermore, we offer a choice of driver grades to suit your preferences. For those prioritising value, we provide the Standard Plan (operated by drivers holding Tourist Driver qualifications). For those seeking to enhance the quality of their journey, we offer the Platinum Plan (operated by drivers holding Chauffeur Guide Driver qualifications).
The Platinum Plan includes not only driving by an experienced chauffeur, but also accompaniment at each sightseeing location, providing local commentary and interpretation services (please note this is an additional service, not a full guide service).
For instance, at Sigiriya Rock, the driver will accompany you to the summit, pointing out the highlights of the frescoes, and will arrange a jeep tour to ride along with you, providing commentary.
DilshanWith hospitality backed by years of proven experience, you can also expect thoughtful attention to detail, such as suggesting clean toilet facilities for rest stops along the way.
Meanwhile, even with the Standard Plan, a certified Tourist Driver will support your itinerary responsibly as your driver. Whilst they cannot provide sightseeing guidance, they guarantee a comfortable journey through safe driving and courteous service.
With attentive service from our certified drivers, your Sri Lanka trip is sure to become a memorable experience that exceeds your expectations.
Our drivers, who are well-versed in local conditions and dedicated to supporting you, will serve as your ‘ultimate travel companions’ throughout your journey (for Platinum Plan customers).
We invite you to fully enjoy the paradise of Sri Lanka in South Asia with a trusted tour driver. We will do our utmost to assist you in creating a safe, secure and truly memorable journey!
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