Australian High Commission
Malaysia

Driving in Malaysia

Driving in Malaysia

The Malaysian Road Transport Authority (locally known as the JPJ) has implemented new regulations that took effect on 19 May 2025. Australian citizens (visitors or long-term residents) who intend to drive while in Malaysia, will need to have a valid international driving permit (IDP) and a valid Australian driving licence.

JPJ has advised that people under the categories below are allowed to convert and apply for a Malaysian driver's licence.

  • Malaysian citizens who obtained a foreign driving license prior to holding a local license
  • Diplomatic Card Holder
  • Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa holders

If you wish to apply for a Malaysian driving licence, you will need to obtain a letter from the Australian transport authority confirming your driving licence details. This letter can only be issued by the transport authority that originally granted you your Australian licence. The Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur does not issue this letter.

Most transport departments in Australia offers online services. You can obtain the confirmation letter via their online portal, if available, or it can be emailed or posted to you directly.

When you submit your paperwork to JPJ, the confirmation letter needs to be accompanied by your original, valid Australian driving licence. JPJ may also ask you to provide proof of your Malaysian visa.

If required by JPJ, we can certify true copies of the confirmation letter issued by the Australian transport authority. If your original document was issued electronically, you will need to show us the email you received from them. You can forward a copy to [email protected]

All notarial services (document certification) are available by appointment only. For more information on certification and booking an appointment, please refer to the Notarial Services page on our website - https://malaysia.highcommission.gov.au/klpr/Notarial_Services.html.

We would advise Australian residents in Malaysia who choose to drive with a valid international driving permit (IDP) and a valid Australian driving licence, to check with their vehicle’s insurance provider to ensure that this will not affect any insurance claims.

For more information about driving in Malaysia, please visit the JPJ website at www.jpj.gov.my . Alternatively, if you would prefer to speak to a JPJ officer, you can contact the Malaysian Government call centre on +603 8000 8000 and request to be put through to the relevant JPJ department.