Malaysia
Driving in Malaysia: licences, car rental and road rules
If you have a valid US, UK, EU or Australian licence, you can drive in Malaysia for up to 90 days; after that you need a local licence. Rent a car for RM100–200 per day, bring a Touch ‘n Go card for tolls, and drive on the left.
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GuideMalaysia
Key facts
- Foreign licence validitycheck
- Up to 90 days with English translation or International Driving Permit
- Minimum driving agecheck
- 18 years (rental agencies may require 21)
- Required documentscheck
- Passport, foreign licence, IDP or certified translation, credit card
- Car rental costcheck
- RM100–200 per day (2026 estimate)
- Toll paymentcheck
- Touch ‘n Go prepaid card required for expressways
- Road side assistancecheck
- Available via rental agency or local insurers
Quick answer
Drive with a recognised foreign licence for up to 90 days; rent a car for RM100–200 a day; use a Touch ‘n Go card for tolls; keep left‑hand traffic; obey speed limits (110 km/h on highways).
Details
Malaysia drives on the left, so position yourself on the right side of the road. Speed limits are posted in km/h: 110 on expressways, 90 on main roads, 50–60 in towns. Seat‑belt use is mandatory for all occupants. Alcohol limits are 0.05 % BAC; police conduct random checks.
Rental agencies require a credit card, passport and a licence in English or an International Driving Permit. Insurance is usually included as basic coverage (CDW); you can purchase excess reduction. Fuel is sold as RON 95 and RON 98; most rentals provide a full‑tank‑return policy.
Expressways use a closed‑system toll; purchase a Touch ‘n Go card at convenience stores, petrol stations or online. Load at least RM30 to avoid extra fees. Some bridges (e.g., Penang Bridge) have separate toll booths.
Notes and tips
- Check the expiry of your foreign licence; some agencies refuse licences older than 10 years.
- If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, apply for a Malaysian driving licence at the Road Transport Department (JPJ).
- Traffic can be heavy in Kuala Lumpur rush hour (07:00–09:00, 17:00–19:00); consider the KLIA Ekspres or Grab for airport transfers.
- Parking in city centres may require payment via Touch ‘n Go or cash; look for marked bays.
- Roads in rural Sabah and Sarawak are well‑maintained but may lack signage; carry a GPS or offline maps.
Questions people ask
What should I know about driving and car rental in Malaysia?
You can use your foreign licence for up to 90 days, rent a car for RM100–200 per day, need a Touch ‘n Go card for tolls, and must drive on the left.
How much does it cost?
Rental rates are RM100–200 per day (including basic insurance); tolls cost about RM2–5 per expressway segment; fuel is around RM2.30 per litre.
When should I plan for it?
Book a rental at least 48 hours before arrival, especially in peak tourist months (June–August, December). Arrange a Touch ‘n Go card ahead of time to avoid delays at toll plazas.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
An IDP is not mandatory if your licence is in English; otherwise a certified translation is required.
Are there any special road rules?
Seat‑belts are compulsory, speed limits are posted in km/h, and drink‑driving limit is 0.05 % BAC. Police may stop vehicles for random checks.
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Deep dive
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Sources
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