In Malaysia, we often hear of “illegal” or “haram” taxis. In short, these are taxis without the proper permits to run the business.
Readers have regularly asked about “illegal” or “haram” driving schools in Malaysia operating in the midst of their society.
Much as I dislikes to delve on the issue, nevertheless the public has to be duly informed.
What exactly is an “illegal” or “haram” driving school? Briefly, these schools are operated by a person or persons operating a driving school business without the proper documents or certificates. In short, the person running the driving school, in reality does not have the “Permission” to conduct such a business.
Some may ask “What’s the difference between a legal and a non legal or haram driving school?”
Amongst other things, all driving schools operators in Malaysia possess:
1) Permits known as S.M. 1 issued by the Transport Department.
2) Vehicles used for driving tuition have S.M. 3 certificates.
3) Driving Instructors possesses the S.M. 2 certificates to teach the students.
4) The “cars” possess the proper insurance coverage.
5) Finally, among many other things, all driving schools cars must undergo a compulsory 6 monthly inspection by the Puspakom authorities. Completely new cars are inspected once a year.
There are many other important items which I am unable to touch at this juncture.
What is the most important item of difference between the illegal driving school and the proper and legitimate driving school?
The answer is “insurance coverage”! Can you ever imagine what’s going to happen to a candidate who is involved in any accident?
So it is hoped from hence forth, all responsible parents and guardians should make it their interest to ensure their children receive their driving tuition from qualified, approved driving institutes and instructors.
How does one identify whether a driving school or institute is a proper, qualified and approved driving institution? Actually it is quite simple.
An approved driving school / institute vehicle have the necessary “L” signs embossed on the both the front and rear end of the car. The company’s logo, name and address is also printed boldly on both sides of the car.
Finally, is there any advantage of one seeking to receive “driving tuition” from an illegal entity? Are these people going to charge you or your child a fee that’s much cheaper than the approved driving school / institute?
Due to less overhead costs, the illegal operators may charge you a lower fee, but is it worth it? Think it over carefully before you regret over your action!
Up to the present stage, no unfortunate or unforeseen incident has yet happened or reported. But then, you’ll never know. As the saying goes, “Anything Can Happen!”
Excellent& informative site. Thanks. I have a New Zealand and Indian licence. Can I use either one to drive in Malaysia? I do not want to go through the process of conversion or reapplying if it can be avoided.
Thanks, Bala
NZ and Indian license can be used here to reasonable length of time (120 days).
Hi Cikgu Yap,
I’ll only be in malaysia for 3 months, then I’ll be heading back to New Zealand. I wanted to ask you whether its worth to get my license here or in New Zealand instead. Because the process seems too long and the costs are always changing . So I need your advice in this area. Like am I able to have a New Zealand license and be able to drive here in malaysia? And how long it will take to obtain a malaysian license. Thank you
As the cost of securing a driving license here in Malaysia should be far cheaper that in NZ, I advise you to do your license here. It takes anything from 1 – 2 months duration. The cost varies from place to place.
Thank you. And would you know of any good english speaking driving instructors?
I will contact you through your email.