Malaysia to ease foreign driving licence conversion process for citizens from 1 June 2026

Malaysians holding valid foreign driving licences will be able to apply for a conversion to a LMM under JPJ's procedures, expanding eligibility beyond the previously limited categories.

The Ministry of Transport Malaysia (MOT) has announced upcoming improvements to the procedures for converting a foreign driving licence into a Malaysian Driving Licence (LMM) for Malaysia citizens, in a move aimed at supporting overseas Malaysians while maintaining road safety and driving standards.

The updated procedure, which will take effect on 1 June 2026, will allow Malaysia citizens holding valid foreign driving licences to apply for a conversion to an LMM, subject to record checks and compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) set by the Malaysian Road Transport Department (JPJ).

According to MOT, the improvement is intended to ensure that driver licensing in Malaysia continues to comply with existing regulations, while also ensuring applicants meet the required level of driving competency.

At the same time, the ministry said the move takes into account the growing mobility needs of Malaysians amid current global and domestic economic challenges, particularly for those working, residing, or conducting business abroad.

At the moment, the conversion of foreign driving licences to Malaysian licences is limited to only three categories of applicants:

• Malaysia citizens who obtained a foreign driving licence before holding an LMM,
• Participants under the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, and
• Applicants under the diplomatic corps category.

Under the improved procedure, all Malaysia citizens holding valid foreign driving licences will be able to apply for conversion to a Malaysian driving licence, subject to record checks and compliance with SOPs set by JPJ.

Applications can be submitted at all State Road Transport Department offices nationwide beginning 1 June 2026.

Further details on eligibility conditions, application procedures, and fee rates will be made available through the official JPJ website starting from the implementation date.

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Lead image / Ministry of Transport Malaysia