The Department of Motor Traffic states that the proposed system for certifying vehicle roadworthiness and safety applies exclusively to commercial vehicles used for public transport and the carriage of goods. Consequently, the Department’s announcement clarifies that this requirement does not apply to vehicles used for private purposes.
During a recent press conference, the Commissioner General of Motor Traffic, retired Air Marshal Thushara Fernando, stated that there are plans to introduce mandatory vehicle fitness inspections starting from early 2027. He noted that a fitness certificate to be issued by approved garages would be required either every 5,000 kilometers or every three months. However, his statement did not explicitly specify which categories of vehicles would be subject to this new regulation. Accordingly, the Department of Motor Traffic has issued a statement clarifying that this proposal applies exclusively to commercial vehicles used for the transport of passengers and goods.
The Department further emphasizes that discussions regarding this proposed mechanism are still ongoing with the ‘Strategic Committee on Vehicle Fitness,’ and that no final decision has been reached yet concerning its implementation. The Department added that the public will be duly informed once the relevant discussions and evaluations are concluded.
Furthermore, the Department of Motor Traffic requests the public to refrain from circulating misleading information on this matter, as it could cause unnecessary anxiety among vehicle owners.