Thinking about driving your own tuktuk through Sri Lanka or Cambodia? You’re about to embark on a unique and unforgettable adventure. But before you hit the road, it’s essential to understand what kind of insurance you need — for both the vehicle and yourself.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What tuktukrental.com already insures for you
- Why personal travel insurance is still essential
- Licence and permit requirements
- Our top 5 recommended travel insurance providers
- FAQs around safety, theft, breakdowns, and support
What We Cover at tuktukrental.com
Every rental from us includes full vehicle insurance as part of the rental price.
This includes:
- Damage to the tuktuk you’re driving
- Third-party property damage
- Third-party injury coverage
- Support from our Emergency Response Team, available nationwide
- 24/7 customer support with real humans
- Mechanics Network all over the country (access to this through our app)
So, you’re covered for the vehicle and legal responsibilities on the road. But there’s more to think about…
Why You Still Need Travel Insurance
Why You Still Need Travel Insurance
Even though we insure the vehicle and third parties, you still need your own travel insurance. That’s because:
- Our policy does not cover your personal medical bills
- It doesn’t cover lost luggage, trip cancellations, or stolen electronics
- It won’t cover you if you cause an accident and need medical evacuation
Importantly, not all travel insurers cover self-driving unusual vehicles like tuktuks. Many policies exclude “motorized adventure” activities unless specified.
Look for policies that mention “tuktuk”, “auto-rickshaw” or “motorized adventure travel” in their wording — and ensure you’re covered as a driver, not just a passenger.
Top Travel Insurance Providers That Cover Tuktuk Driving
SafetyWing (our top pick)
- Affordable global coverage
- You can buy it even if you’re already abroad
- Excellent medical coverage, trip protection & personal liability
- Make sure to select the “Adventure Sports Add-on” – this is required to be covered while driving a tuktuk!
- Prices start around $50 for 4 weeks
Visit SafetyWing.
JS Travel Insurance (UK/EU residents)
Offers a dedicated Tuk Tuk Adventure Insurance
Includes medical, cancellation, personal liability and more
Designed for self-driving tuk tuk holidays
Visit JS Travel Insurance.
World Nomads
- Covers 250+ adventure activities (including tuktuk driving)
- Choose their Explorer or Epic plans
- Well-known among backpackers and long-term travelers
- Coverage varies by country — always read the policy wording
True Traveller (EU only)
- Great for multi-activity travel
- Optional Adventure Sports pack includes self-driving tuktuks
- Competitive pricing for Europeans
Battleface
- Good for short-term or high-risk destinations
- Contact their chat support and ask if they’ll include “auto-rickshaw driving” under your coverage
Licence Requirements: Sri Lanka vs. Cambodia
In Sri Lanka you need:
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) with Category B endorsement (light vehicles) – if you are already travelling, get in touch with us and we can guide you into the right direction.
- A local recognition permit, issued in Sri Lanka
We help you get this local permit through the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC), and it’s included in your booking.
Important: A motorcycle (A) endorsement is NOT sufficient to drive a tuktuk in Sri Lanka.
In Cambodia it’s simpler. You only need:
- A valid IDP (1949 version)
- Your original national driver’s licence
No local recognition or endorsement is required in Cambodia.
Common Questions (FAQs)
What if the tuktuk gets stolen?
Tuktuk theft is extremely rare – we’ve had just one case in over 20000 bookings! If it happens, it’s covered under our insurance.
What if I break down on the road?
We’ve got your back! Our Emergency Response Team is available island-wide and ready to respond quickly.
Can I get a driver instead of self-driving?
Yes, we offer optional drivers on case-to-case basis, but 95% of our guests go self-drive because of the freedom and fun it offers.
Is this safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely. We help solo travelers with route planning, hostel suggestions, and can even add you to our guest WhatsApp group so you feel part of the community.
Why Book With tuktukrental.com?
- 24/7 support – before, during, and after your trip
- Emergency Response Team in case of breakdowns
- Local driving permit assistance
- Free driving lesson included
- Country-wide pickup and drop-off options
- Offline-friendly navigation app with maps, fuel stops, mechanic locations
- Support local communities through our social business model
Final Checklist Before You Go
- ✅ Get an IDP with Category B endorsement
- ✅ Purchase personal travel insurance (add “Adventure Sports” if required)
- ✅ Upload your documents to us so we can process your Sri Lankan driving permit (in Sri Lanka)
- ✅ Save emergency numbers in your phone
- ✅ Pack your bags — your tuktuk adventure awaits!
Want help choosing insurance or getting licensed? Message us — we’re here to help.
2 Comments
by Sarah coleman
Hi there my friend and I need travel insurance for the rickshaw. Please help us as we need insurance asap.
Thanks
Sarah
by Wietse
Hi Sarah, you can use the link in the article to purchase SafetyWing insurance which will cover you driving a tuktuk.