Can Foreign Driving Licenses Be Converted Into Malaysian Driving Licenses?

A person goes to another country namely for 2 reasons. One is to work there. The other is to visit that foreign country as a tourist. Whichever maybe the reason of visit, the problem of transport will always be a major one.

Unlike in certain countries, like Singapore, Hong Kong and countries which are renown for their good transportation facilities, the rest of the countries will always pose as a problem to many. This problem could be overcomed if only domestic foreign licenses could be converted to Malaysian domestic license.

First and foremost, do understand that domestic foreign licenses can be used in Malaysia. Those holding Singapore licenses or Thai licenses can very well drive here when they visit Malaysia.

But the question many foreigners frequently inquire or ask is: Can foreign licenses be converted into Malaysian licenses?

Before it is forgotten, foreign domestic license can be used in Malaysia provided it has not expired. The driver should also ensure he or she has an English or Bahasa Malaysia translation of the license used. The assumption for this requirement being it would assist the authorities in their work.

To what I know, there is no test required. To my personal knowledge, I have came across the case of a Bangladeshi whose license was converted to Malaysian “P” License (Probationary Drivers’ License) status.

For your information, the above conversion was accompanied by all the requirements as had to be followed by Malaysian “P” holders.

As the above case took place some many years ago. I am unable to quote exactly the section under which the conversion was done. But vaguely, I think it was Section 5. Further reference will be conducted to rectify the mistake if need be.

What documents are necessary for conversion purposes? As usual, they are:

i) Use JPJ Form B-2.

ii) Foreign country domestic license which has been certified.

iii) Translation of the license in either Bahasa Malaysia or English.

iv) Embassy or authority which issued the license.

Some driving schools even Institutes when asked by foreigners if their domestic license can be converted into Malaysian license are unable to give a correct answer.

Misleading or vague answers are sometimes given. To prevent time wasting, most foreigners, who already have domestic licenses, prefer to take the entire test all over again, doing:

a) The Highway Code in English.

b) Practical Test Part II (Slope, Side Parking, 3 Point Turn).

c) Part III (Road Test).

The distance of the transport Headquarters in Putrajaya, the necessity of having to meet the correct officials to seek permission to convert their license to Malaysian one, are some of the reasons which lead foreigners opting to do their test all over.

This is most unfortunate – as by the Geneva Conference (1949) and 1968, signing nations have agreed “domestic” license can be used in each other country.

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Related web sites:

1) International Driving Permit

2) How to get an International Driving License in Kuwait?

3) Guides to Obtain an International Driving License for Malaysian

4) The “IDP” Question – Driving in Italy…

5) How to Apply for your Australian Driving License

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International Driving License for Malaysian

Malaysian who travel abroad to other countries as tourists can use their domestic license to drive rented car or caravan especially in countries like Australia or New Zealand.

The same applies to those who work overseas for a short period. Those going to neighboring countries like Thailand and Singapore should have no fear of driving there.

As long as the licenses are valid, meaning it has been renewed (not expired) and the vehicle driven be it cars or motorcycles have the required insurance coverage, there should exist no problem at all.

Readers should bear in mind that the above amenities are made possible where most countries of the present world have agreed to extend this important service to its citizens, thus making it much easier for them to travel around.

Nevertheless, it should be remembered that there are a few countries which still do not have bi-lateral relations, thus not enabling their citizens this privilege.

One can apply to the International Driving License from Road Transport Office (J.P.J) all over the country. The rules and regulations are as follows, including the necessary documents required:

a) Domestic license which is still valid for at least a year and its photostat copy.

b) Identity card (original) and 1 copy photostat

c) 2 copies coloured photo, passport size

d) Application form JPJL1

e) International Driving License fee for 1 year (RM150)

To my knowledge, you have to surrender your Domestic Malaysian License in place of your International Driving License. As no one is permitted to posses 2 driving licenses in Malaysia.

If in the later stages, you no longer require usage of this said license (which is rather costly anyway) you could then surrender it for your C.D.L (Competent Driver’s License) domestic license later.

Other than J.P.J offices, this license is attainable from the Automobile Association Of Malaysia (A.A.M) office also.

Now that you know how to obtain the International Driving License, what are you waiting for. Apply for it now and Happy Driving.

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This book will show you how.
=> Click here to learn more!