Embarking on the vibrant roads of Malaysia is a journey filled with excitement and, sometimes, a bit of paperwork magic. For expatriates navigating the twists and turns of securing a Malaysian driving license, the process might seem daunting. But fear not, for this enchanting guide will illuminate the path, revealing the secrets to driving legally in Malaysia with ease.
And, as a bonus spell, discover how FLUX, the wizards of hassle-free car ownership, can turn your driving dreams into reality, whether you’re currently cruising with a foreign license or in the process of converting. Let the magical adventure begin!
How long can you use your foreign license in Malaysia?
You’re allowed to use your international license for driving in Malaysia for up to 90 days from your date of arrival.
What happens after you’ve passed the 90-day period?
Upon the expiration of the 90-day period, consider converting your foreign license to a Malaysian one to bypass the complete Malaysian licensing procedure. Click on this link to determine your eligibility for this process if the foreign driving license is issued by a country which is not the applicant’s nationality (proof that the applicant was living in that country at the time the foreign driving license was issued).
Who is eligible for this license conversion process?
Certain requirements must be met for the conversion of a foreign driving license in Malaysia:
- For non-Malaysian citizens, eligibility involves possessing a Long / Short Term Social Visit Pass, being part of the MM2H programme, or being married to a Malaysian citizen. Work permit holders and those on dependent passes are considered temporary residents and are ineligible for license conversion.
- A valid driver’s license from your home country equivalent to a Malaysian CDL or PDL is necessary. If your current valid driver’s license isn’t in English, a verified translation from the issuing country’s embassy or the relevant licensing authority is required.
- The conversion applies only to class B2 (motorcycle) and class D (car) licenses.
- Those with a valid foreign driver’s license for less than 2 years are eligible for a PDL license; individuals with a valid license for over 2 years qualify for a CDL license.
- Applicants must visit the JPJ offices in person for the license conversion process.
What is the cost of this conversion and renewal process?
The conversion process incurs a fee of RM40. Subsequently, the renewal fee stands at RM60 per year, with a maximum renewal period of 5 years.
What documents do you need to prepare?
- Driving license application form (JPJL1)
- Application form Exemption Application Method 5 (Appendix B-2 – or Lampiran B-2)
- Passport (original & copy of the biometric page)
- Visa / Pass issued by immigration (original & copy)
- Valid foreign driving license (original & copy)
- A translation of your foreign driving license in English – must be an official translation & certified (original)
- MM2H only: Confirmation / Offer letter from Immigration (original & copy)
- EPI and EPII only: Offer letter or confirmation letter from Employer
- Resident / Talent pass only: Residence pass or Talent pass Letter
What is the process for the license conversion process?
- Visit the main JPJ Office (not a branch). Check this link for a list of JPJ Offices.
- Bring all necessary documents to the JPJ office. The officer will review your documents and schedule an appointment.
- Return on the appointed date to submit your documents. The JPJ Officer will send them for processing to the Putrajaya Main Office.
- Monitor your foreign driving license application status on the JPJ website’s designated section regularly. No notifications will be sent. Once approved, within 2 months, visit the JPJ Main Office with the downloaded and printed approval letter.
- Remember to bring a passport photo (25mm x 32mm) with a white background. Renewals can only be done at a JPJ Branch, with a maximum renewal period of 5 years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, converting a foreign driver’s license to a Malaysian one can be quite tedious and long. However, subscribing to a car through FLUX doesn’t have to be. You can still cruise with FLUX, either with your foreign license or while converting to a local one.
FLUX brings a groundbreaking change to car ownership through our flexible, hassle-free car subscriptions. Bid farewell to the troubles of high-interest loans, insurance complexities, maintenance worries, and unexpected costs. Our subscription bundles cover everything from insurance to road tax, maintenance, and wear and tear. Plus, effortlessly switch between cars when needed.
At FLUX, empowerment is key. Take charge by exploring our widest selection of cars, selecting a plan perfectly suited to your requirements, and within just 7 days, your chosen vehicle will be delivered right to your doorstep—all done conveniently online.
Subscribe today at driveflux.com/cars for a hassle-free journey to car ownership.
