Thousands of Malaysians drive to southern Thailand over the years particularly to popular destinations like Hat Yai, Songkhla, Krabi. But there are many travelers who are finding out that they may be unable to solve their problems in the event that they have to face any normal police inspection procedure, if they depend solely on the app “MyJPJ”.
One Malaysian man on a motorway was recently spotted with his digital driving licence only and was slapped with a fine of 1,000 Thai Baht by a police road-block without any other physical copies, which got most people’s attention. This accident has made the Road Transport Department reissue a warning regarding not accepting Malaysia’s driving licence.
Why Do You Need a Physical Driving License in Thailand?
Malaysia is officially embracing digital driving licences for use within the country with the MyJPJ app. Thai authorities do not accept the digital licence in roadside checks, but does make it easier to live.
Whether you’re going to hire or drive your own car in Thailand, it’s important to have the original Malaysian Driving Licence. Only having the MyJPJ app on hand can lead to fines and/or delays or further questioning by local authorities.
Can You Get a Physical Driving Licence After Going Digital?
While you may have chosen to have only a digital driving licence before your trip, should you wish to have a physical version, you can request a physical driving licence from JPJ prior to the journey.
Eligible motorists may visit one of JPJ’s service counters if they want a physical card. This would be particularly useful for those Malaysian travellers who often travel abroad, which is a location where the digital licence may not be accepted.
How to Apply for a Physical Driving Licence Copy from JPJ?
The application process is simple and simple to finish in a short time if you have all important documents in position.
To access any JPJ service, visit any JPJ branch or Urban Transformation Centre. Draw your MyKad or any ID for identification. Tell the counter official that you want a hardcopy of your driving license for travel to other countries.
Upon successful identity verification, you will have to pay the relevant corresponding processing fee (around RM20 for an actual RM card) to proceed. JPJ will process your JPJ requests when payment is made. Commonly applicants will get their physical licence the same day, the processing time varies from branch to branch.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
Hat Yai or a longer vacation in Thailand is recommended to visit JPJ a few days before the trip to ensure that you are prepared with the necessary requisition before you leave Singapore.
Although the processing of the JPJ is quick, this demand may rise on school holidays and festive periods as well as during long weekends with the huge number of Malaysians travelling across the border.
It is preferable to have a valid physical licence before you travel so as to eliminate some of the stress and possible penalties that you might experience.
Do You Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
Many people think that an International Driving Permit is required for driving in Thailand but it is not.
One holding a valid PLMSL driving licence is normally accepted for private driving under ASEAN agreement on the Republic of Thailand. Malaysian licenses are generally accepted for foreigners in Thailand as they come in English.
Renting a vehicle, traveling beyond southern Thailand or having additional documentation that can help you to communicate with local authorities might still be worthwhile by obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Essential Documents for Driving to Thailand
There are other crucial documents for hassle-free travel other than your driving licence. Bring your passport along with a minimum validity of six months, our vehicle registration card (Grant), valid motor insurance for Thailand and any border forms that are necessary at the border.
Important papers can be helpful during the inspection if it is available both in print and on screen. Preparing ahead of time is the best way to minimize any delays at border crossings or with the police.
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Common Mistakes Malaysian Drivers Should Avoid
The first blunder is assuming that the MyJPJ app will operate outside Malaysia. It is perfectly legal for use within Malaysia, but foreign authorities have their own rules concerning driving papers.
One of the frequent errors is not having vehicle insurance or registration papers with them. While travelling through the Border you are likely to be asked to present various documents from time to time by Border officials and Police, so you are advised to collate all these documents in a Border travel folder before departing.
FAQs
Do Thai police recognise the MyJPJ app?
Currently, Thai authorities do not recognise the MyJPJ digital driving licence. Your driving licence must be presented in hard copy if you are driving in Thailand.
How much is a plain JPJ driving licence priced at?
The fees charged for processing are normally about RM20 but travelers should check with JPJ the current fees involved.
Is it possible to drive in Thailand with a driving license from Malaysia?
Generally, it is acceptable for private driving in Thailand with a valid physical Malaysian driving licence under an ASEAN agreement. But having an International Driving Permit on hand is advisable because of its convenience.
