Sri Lanka has officially commenced the implementation of Digital Motor Insurance Cards from May 1, 2026, replacing traditional printed motor insurance cards.

The move was introduced following a joint decision by the Insurance Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (IRCSL), the Sri Lanka Insurance Association, and other stakeholders in the insurance industry.

According to a statement issued by the Police Media Division, motorists can now obtain proof of insurance through a Digital Motor Insurance Card, a mobile app provided by insurance companies, or a printed card issued only upon request.

Authorities said the system is linked to the newly introduced National Insurance Verification System, allowing police and the public to instantly verify the validity of a motor insurance policy.

Verification can be carried out through three methods:

• Dialling the USSD code *1338#

• Sending the vehicle or insurance number via SMS to 1338

• Calling the hotline 1338 for direct assistance

Officials noted that the service is free of charge.

The Police also instructed motorists to enter vehicle numbers without spaces when using the system, while vehicles carrying the “ශ්‍රී” prefix should use “SRI” in English when entering details.

The statement further clarified that previously issued printed insurance certificates will remain valid until their expiry dates, although new policies issued from May 1 onwards will primarily be provided in digital format.

Authorities said the digital insurance cards are legally recognised under the Electronic Transactions Act No. 19 of 2006.