The Motorist guide to getting a driving licence in Malaysia

You're keen to drive and ready to push your start engine button in Malaysia, but before you can hit the road, you'll need to get a driving licence. Don't worry if you're feeling a bit confused and scared; we've all been in the same boat.

Tadaaaa! We're here to guide you through the process, step by step. By the end of this article, you'll have all the information you need to confidently navigate the road to obtaining your driving licence in Malaysia.

Step 1: Meet the requirements 

Before you start, let's make sure you meet the basic requirements:

Firstly, you need to be at least 17 years old to apply for a car (Class D) licence or 16 years old for a motorcycle (Class B2) licence and a valid identification document, such as your Identity Card (IC) or passport.

The table below shows other types of classification and its minimum age requirements to obtain a driver's licence.

Step 2: Enrol with a registered driving school

The next step is to enroll in a reputable driving school. It's important to choose a school that is approved by Malaysia's Road Transport Department (JPJ). Choosing the right driving school is important, as they'll provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to become a safe driver. At the driving school, you'll receive both theoretical knowledge and practical training to prepare you for the road ahead. In Malaysia, there are more than 120 driving schools and registration fees vary from school to school depending on package offers. You may check for the full list here

Step 3: Pass the computer/ theory exam

Once you're enrolled in a driving school, you will receive a handbook called Kurikulum Pendidikan Memandu (KPP), which you will need to bring along during your 5 hours of theoretical training class. The theoretical training at the driving school covers a wide range of topics, including road rules, traffic signs, safety regulations, and basic vehicle maintenance. No worries; this can be completed in just a day. Normally, this module will be conducted in Malay. However, if you are a non-Malay speaker, you may be allowed to skip this module. You can study for the theory test using other sources, such as the ‘KPP Test Malaysia' app. The good news here is the actual theory test will be in both Malay and English.

Additionally, you will prepare for the computerised theory test, which evaluates your understanding of driving rules and regulations. The passing score on the computerised licence test for cars and motorcycles is 42 out of 50. A candidate is required to retake the driving licence computer test in case they do not meet the pass mark.

Step 4: Achieve your Learner Driving Licence (LDL/ L-Licence) and pass at least 16 hours of practical on-road training

Congratulations! Now you will get your Learner Driving Licence (LDL) from the driving school you have registered with. So the next step, after completing the theoretical training and passing the theory test, is to progress to the practical training phase. During the practical training, you will receive hands-on driving lessons from certified driving instructors, or 'Cikgu'. Most importantly, you are required to complete a minimum of 16 hours of on-road practical lessons. During the session, instructors will teach you how to operate a vehicle safely, navigate different road conditions, practice defensive driving techniques, and develop the necessary skills to handle various driving scenarios. It's essential to actively participate in these lessons, ask questions, and practice regularly to build your confidence behind the wheel. 

The default learning options are for both Manual and Automatic transmission cars. However, you may opt to take the Automatic Only licence. This will limit your driver’s licence to Automatic cars only. 

Step 5: Pass your on-road driving test

Source: JPJ Malaysia
Once you feel ready, you can schedule the practical driving test, which is the final hurdle before obtaining your driving licence. During the test, an examiner will assess your driving skills, such as your ability to:

• Handle a vehicle on the open road

• Adherence to traffic rules and signages

• 3-point turn

• Reverse parking

• Parallel parking 

• Lane changing 

• Uphill stopping (Naik Bukit)

• And overall competency as a driver

It is important to remain calm, remember your training, and demonstrate safe driving practices during the test.

If you get it all right, great! You have passed the on-road test!

Step 6: Two years of probationary licence

Lastly, you will be issued a Probationary Driving Licence (PDL), which allows you to drive with certain restrictions for two years. During the probationary period, you must display the probationary driver plate (P) on the top left windscreen and rear-windscreen of your car, and adhere to the rules and regulations set by the Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan Malaysia (JPJ). It's crucial to drive responsibly, follow traffic laws, and practice safe driving habits to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Once the 2-year probationary period is over, you will be upgraded to a Competent Driving Licence (CDL). Congratulations – you're now officially licensed to drive in Malaysia!

In summary, obtaining a driving licence in Malaysia is a structured process that requires dedication, patience, and adherence to regulations. By following these steps and seeking guidance from accredited driving schools, you'll be well on your way to becoming a safe and responsible driver on the roads of Malaysia.

Read More: The economics of electric vehicles vs. petrol cars in Malaysia

Download the Motorist App now. Designed by drivers for drivers, this all-in-one app lets you receive the latest traffic updates, gives you access to live traffic cameras, and helps you manage vehicle related matters.