Sri Lanka’s new vehicle registration process is facing delays due to a shortage of number plates, the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) has confirmed.
In a letter issued to new vehicle owners, the DMT states that due to the shortage, number plates will be delayed. As an interim solution, the department has granted temporary permission for vehicles to be used with a letter that includes the vehicle number and confirms the registration is valid.
This temporary measure is effective from April 28, according to the letter issued by the department.
Meanwhile, journalist Ranga Srilal took to social media to question the planning behind the situation. “The Motor Traffic Department has run out of vehicle number plates. Owners of newly registered vehicles are being charged for the plates but won’t receive them. What planning?” he questioned on ‘X’.
The DMT has not specified when the number plate shortage will be resolved. (Newswire/ AI Image)
ANOTHER CRISIS: While the Immigration Department is still grappling with a shortage of blank passports, the Motor Traffic Department has run out of vehicle number plates. Owners of newly registered vehicles are being charged for the plates but won’t receive them. What planning? pic.twitter.com/cQXDk8JR17
— Ranga Sirilal (@rangaba) May 16, 2025