Here's A List Of Countries You Can Drive In With A Valid Malaysian Driving Licence

In case you're thinking of renting a car during your next holiday.

By Jeremy Ng | 13 Oct 2025, 04:48 PM

#didyouknow#driving#drivinglicence#informative#JPJ#lifestyle#travel#unaicornCover image via Canva Teams & Briana Tozour/Unsplash

Malaysians can actually drive in quite a few countries with a valid driving licence

Usually, all you need is a printed copy of your Malaysian driving licence from the Road Transport Department (JPJ), which most car rental counters overseas will check before handing you the keys.

But in some places, that's not enough. You might also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) -- a document that translates your licence into other languages, which you can apply from JPJ or the Automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM).

Here's a quick guide to where your Malaysian licence can take you: 1. Singapore: You're good to go

Good news for those planning a JB or Sentosa getaway. Malaysians can drive in Singapore using their domestic driving licence, as long as it's valid and in English. You don't need an IDP.

However, you must have your Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP), Autopass card, and valid insurance sorted before entering Singapore. Fines can be steep if you skip the paperwork, so double-check before crossing the Causeway.

2. Thailand: You'll need a licence and IDP

Yes, you can drive in Thailand with your Malaysian licence, but only if you also carry an IDP. The IDP acts as an officially translated version of your licence and is recognised under the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic, which both Malaysia and Thailand are part of.

Just make sure your passport, car insurance, and vehicle registration card are on hand. Thai police often request to see all three.

3. Australia: It depends on the state

Malaysia's licence is valid in Australia for temporary visitors, but what counts as "temporary" -- and how long you can drive -- depends on which city you're exploring.

In Melbourne (Victoria), you can drive with your Malaysian licence (as long as it's in English) for up to six months after entering the country. If you're staying longer, you'll need to apply for a Victorian licence. In Sydney (New South Wales), you can drive on their overseas licence indefinitely, provided you're not a permanent resident and your licence is in English. In Perth (Western Australia), you have up to three months to drive with your Malaysian licence. After that, you'll need to convert it.

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But if your licence isn't in English, you'll need an IDP.

4. Japan: You'll need a translated licence, not an IDP

Surprisingly, Malaysia isn't part of the same driving convention Japan follows. That means your IDP isn't valid there. Instead, you must get your Malaysian licence officially translated into Japanese by the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF).

The translation process is simple and can be done online or at a JAF office. Once you have it, you can legally rent and drive a car in Japan for up to a year as a temporary visitor.

5. Vietnam: You "technically" can't drive there

Vietnam is part of the ASEAN Agreement on the mutual recognition of domestic driving licences. So in theory, Malaysian licences should be recognised.

But, Vietnamese police and car rental companies require a 1968 Vienna Convention IDP (the only one Malaysia issues is the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP).

While vehicle rental companies may rent you a scooter or moped, no questions asked, do note your travel insurance won't cover accidents if you're driving illegally. You can also be fined on the spot if police stop you and discover your documents aren't valid under local law.

6. United Kingdom: You're good for a year

If you're in the UK on holiday or a short-term stay, your Malaysian driving licence is valid for up to 12 months from the date of entry. That means you can rent a car and explore the countryside without needing an IDP.

Just remember that they drive on the left side of the road (same as us), but road rules are stricter, and speed cameras are everywhere.

7. New Zealand: You're good for a year

Planning a campervan adventure across the South Island? You're in luck. New Zealand recognises Malaysian licences for up to 12 months as long as the licence is in English.

If your licence isn't, get an official English translation or an IDP before you go. After the 12 months, you'll need to apply for a local licence.

8. European Union countries: You'll need a licence and IDP

Most EU countries, such as France, Italy, and Germany, require an IDP in addition to your Malaysian licence, especially for car rentals.

Always check the specific country's rules before you go. Some, like Spain or Portugal, might accept the English version of your licence for short stays, while others strictly enforce the IDP rule.

9. United States: Bring your IDP just in case

The US accepts Malaysian licences in some states, but not all. For example, California and New York generally accept foreign licences for visitors, while others require an IDP alongside it.

Car rental companies also tend to ask for an IDP, so it's safer to have one.

10. South Korea: You'll need a licence and IDP

South Korea recognises your valid Malaysian licence only if paired with an IDP.

You can rent a car as a tourist, but traffic laws there are quite strict, and penalties are heavy for violations. Stay within speed limits, especially on highways monitored by cameras.

11. Indonesia: You'll need a licence and IDP

When travelling in Indonesia, you generally must have your national driving licence and an IDP.

The police in Bali are stricter nowadays and do check for legal permits. Carrying both documents is part of the requirement.

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