Driving in Malaysia

Driving rules, license options and car ownership

Overview

Foreign driving license conversion to a Malaysian license is no longer possible for most nationalities as of 2026. The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has ended the direct conversion program. However, you can drive in Malaysia with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) for the first year of your stay. After that, you must obtain a Malaysian driving license by taking the computer theory test and practical driving test at an accredited driving academy.

Eligibility

Tourist: drive with your French license

As a tourist, you can rent a vehicle and drive in Malaysia with your valid French license. Depending on the rental company, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required in addition - check each agency conditions. Your French license alone is accepted by most rental companies for short-term rentals (up to 90 days).

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International Driving Permit (IDP)

Recommended for tourists: the IDP is valid for 1 year in Malaysia and accepted everywhere (rental companies, road checks). Get it before you leave (from your préfecture or automobile association in France). Without an IDP, your French license remains valid for 90 days.

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International Driving Permit (IDP)

Valid for 1 year from entry

You can drive in Malaysia with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to 1 year from your date of entry. After that, you must hold a valid Malaysian driving license. Without an IDP, your foreign license is only valid for 90 days.

Recommended Driving Academies

These academies are recommended for expats with English-speaking instructors:

Berjaya Driving Academy

Cheras

No. 22, Jalan Cempaka, 56000 Cheras

📞 03-9131 2333 🕐 Mon-Sat 8am-6pm

English-speaking instructors, expat-friendly

Panduan Juara

KL Sentral

No. 15, Jalan Tun Sambanthan, 50470 KL

📞 03-2273 1122 🕐 Mon-Sat 8am-5pm

JPJ test centre nearby

Mewah Driving Academy

Bangsar

No. 8, Jalan Bangsar, 59100 KL

📞 03-2282 5566 🕐 Mon-Sat 8am-6pm

Premium academy, pick-up service

Galileo Driving Academy

Ampang

No. 55, Jalan Ampang, 68000 Ampang

📞 03-4291 7788 🕐 Mon-Sat 8am-5pm

Automatic car lessons available

Yayasan Safety

Sri Petaling

No. 30, Jalan Radin Bagus, 57000 KL

📞 03-9058 2233 🕐 Mon-Sat 8am-6pm

Largest driving centre in KL

Process

Step 1: Understand the new rules

Your International Driving Permit (IDP) is valid for driving in Malaysia for up to 1 year from your date of entry. During this period, you should register with an accredited driving academy to begin the process of obtaining your Malaysian license. The complete process takes approximately 3-4 months from registration to receiving your license: 1-2 weeks for theory test booking, 2-4 weeks for the computer theory test (KPP01) at JPJ, 6-10 weeks for practical training (KPP02), and 2-4 weeks for the practical driving test (KPP03). Choose an academy that offers English-speaking instructors.

Step 2: Choose a driving academy

Register with an accredited driving academy (Institut Memandu) near you. Popular choices in KL include Berjaya Driving Academy, Panduan Juara, and Akademi Memandu Mewah. Most academies offer English-speaking instructors. The complete course (theory + practical) typically costs between RM 1,000 and RM 2,500 depending on the package and location.

Step 3: Pass the computer theory test (KPP01)

The first step is passing the computer-based theory test at JPJ. The test covers Malaysian road rules, traffic signs, and driving etiquette. It is available in English and Bahasa Malaysia. Study materials are provided by your driving academy. You can take the test at any JPJ office. The test fee is approximately RM 10-20.

Step 4: Complete practical training (KPP02)

After passing the theory test, you must complete a minimum number of practical driving hours at your chosen academy. The practical training covers basic driving skills, reversing, parking, hill starts, and road handling. Most academies offer packages of 10 to 20 sessions.

Step 5: Pass the practical driving test (KPP03)

The final step is the practical driving test administered by a JPJ examiner. The test includes a closed-course component (parking, reversing, hill start) and an on-road component. You must bring your own car or use the academy vehicle. The test fee is approximately RM 50-100. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting period.

Step 6: Collect your Malaysian driving license

Once you pass both tests, you will receive a probationary license (P license) valid for 2 years. After the probationary period, you can apply for a full competent driving license (CDL). The license is valid for 1-5 years depending on your visa duration. You can manage your license through the MyJPJ mobile app.

FAQ

Can I still convert my foreign driving license?

No. As of 2026, JPJ has ended direct foreign license conversion for most nationalities. You must take the full Malaysian theory and practical driving tests.

Can I drive with my foreign license or IDP in Malaysia?

Yes, you can drive with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to 1 year from your date of entry into Malaysia. After that, you must hold a valid Malaysian driving license. Without an IDP, your foreign license is valid for 90 days.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

An IDP is recommended for short-term visitors and is recognized in Malaysia. However, long-term residents must transition to a Malaysian license.

How much does it cost to get a Malaysian license?

The total cost is approximately RM 1,000 to RM 2,500 for driving academy fees plus RM 60-120 for JPJ test fees.

Is the theory test available in English?

Yes, the computer theory test is available in English and Bahasa Malaysia. Your driving academy can provide study materials in English.

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