Malaysia Has A New Driving Licence Card, But It's Not For Everyone. Here's Why
The new card, designed to last up to 10 years, also comes with enhanced security features to help prevent forgery.
Cover image via Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan Malaysia (Facebook)The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has just launched a new version of the Malaysian driving licence card, but before you head to your nearest branch, here's everything you need to know
1. It's not available to everyone
Only two categories are eligible to receive the physical card.
Despite the new card being rolled out nationwide starting 21 May 2025, the physical card won't be issued to everyone by default. According to JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli, the physical version is only available to:
- Malaysians travelling abroad who need a physical licence for driving overseas.
- Non-citizens who are renewing their Malaysian driving licence.
If you're just renewing your licence as usual, you'll continue to receive the digital version via the MyJPJ app.
"We know not all countries accept digital licences, Singapore has, but others haven't. So for those travelling abroad, a physical licence plus an International Driving Permit (IDP) is still necessary," Aedy said.
To apply for the physical card, travellers are expected to show proof of travel, such as flight tickets.
2. What's new in the card design?
The updated card now comes with enhanced security features to help prevent tampering and forgery. It's also designed to last up to 10 years.
Here's what it looks like:
- Front: Features the iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building with abstract wave motifs.
- Back: Showcases the Istana Negara with floral abstract motifs.
The cards are being distributed in phases at selected JPJ offices, as part of a gradual transition from the older version. Again, the new cards are currently limited to Malaysian citizens travelling abroad and non-citizens staying and working in the country renewing their driving licences.
3. Why the change?
This new physical card is part of broader efforts by JPJ to modernise and tighten licensing processes, including:
- Upgrading the process for setting up new driving institutes
- Encouraging adoption of eTesting systems and computerised test centres
- Improving enforcement across the country's 248 driving institutes
During a recent special ops in Johor, two driving schools were flagged for 80 different violations, ranging from instructors teaching too many students and unsupervised training to instructors lighting up during lessons.
