Travelling Overseas and Planning to Drive? Here’s How M’sians Can Apply For an International Driving Permit

Planning to rent a car and explore your holiday destination on your own? If you’re a Malaysian driver planning to drive overseas, you may have come across the term International Driving Permit (IDP), but what is it, and do you actually need one?

Here’s what you need to know before getting behind the wheel abroad.

So, what exactly is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an official document that allows motorists to drive in countries outside their home country where an IDP is recognised under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic. 

These include major destinations such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and India, as well as countries across Latin America, Africa, and Asia.

It serves as a translation of your domestic driving licence into several languages, making it easier for foreign authorities, car rental companies, and other relevant parties to understand the details of your Malaysian driving licence.

However, an IDP is not a replacement for your Malaysian driving licence.

You’ll need to carry your valid Malaysian driving licence together with your IDP when driving overseas.

Whether you need an IDP depends on the country you’re visiting, as different countries have different rules for foreign drivers. Some may recognise a Malaysian driving licence on its own, while others may require an IDP.

It’s therefore a good idea to check the driving requirements of your destination before your trip.

Who can apply for an IDP in Malaysia?

According to the Road Transport Department (JPJ), applicants must:

• Be 18 years old or above
• Hold a valid Competent Driving Licence (CDL)
• Have more than one year of validity remaining on their CDL
• Not be blacklisted by JPJ

Those holding a Probationary Driving Licence (PDL) are not eligible to apply for an IDP.

How much does an IDP cost?

JPJ lists the fee for an International Driving Permit at RM150. The permit is valid for one year.

How do Malaysians apply for an IDP?

According to JPJ, applications can be made at any JPJ State Office or Branch as well as the Urban Transformation Centre (UTC). Applicants should bring:

• Their MyKad
• Their Malaysian CDL
• One passport-sized colour photograph

Waiting time can be over 30 minutes or more, depending on the branch and how busy it is.

Whether you need one depends on the country you’re travelling to and its rules for foreign driving licences. Some countries may accept a Malaysian driving licence, while others may require an IDP. Car rental companies may also have their own requirements, so it’s worth checking before you travel.

Most importantly, having an IDP doesn’t automatically mean you’re allowed to drive anywhere in the world. You still have to comply with the local country’s driving laws, age requirements, insurance requirements, and rental-car rules.

Also read: M’sians Will Need MyDigital ID to Log In to MyJPJ Starting Tomorrow (1 May)