# Foreigner Driving License Conversion

What Is It

The Driving License Conversion is a facility provided by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) that allows eligible expatriates holding valid foreign national driving licenses to convert them to a Malaysian Competent Driving License (CDL) without undergoing local driving lessons or examinations.

Who Is Eligible

  • Foreign citizens holding long-term passes in Malaysia (e.g. Employment Pass, MM2H, Resident Pass, Student Pass, or spouse of citizen visa).
  • Holds a valid driving license from their country of origin.
  • Note: Citizens of countries with bilateral conversion agreements (like ASEAN countries, Australia, Japan) enjoy direct conversion. Other nationalities must obtain specific validation clearances.

    • Required Documents

  • Original Driving License from origin country (with certified English/BM translation if in foreign language).
  • Letter of Validation from the road safety authority or Embassy of the origin country confirming the license details.
  • Valid Passport and long-term visa.
  • JPJ L1 Application Form.
  • 1 color photo (white background).

    • Step-by-Step Procedure

    1. Get License Validation: Obtain an official endorsement letter confirming your license status from your embassy or home country's licensing department. 2. Visit JPJ Headquarters: Go to the JPJ State Headquarters (not local branches). 3. Submit Verification: Present your passport, validation letter, foreign license, and completed Form JPJ L1. 4. Approval Check: JPJ reviews the application (takes 14 to 30 working days depending on country category). 5. Pay Fee & Print: Once approved, return to JPJ, pay the licensing fees, and collect your Malaysian CDL card.

    Cost & Processing Time

  • Cost: Application processing fee is RM20.00. Annual license fee for Class D car is RM60.00 for foreigners.
  • Processing Time: Approval takes 14 to 30 working days. Card printing takes 15 minutes once approved.

    • Where to Apply

  • JPJ State Headquarters (Ibu Pejabat JPJ Negeri) across Malaysia.

    • Important Notes

  • Converts are typically issued a Probationary Driving License (PDL) for the first 2 years if their home country license was held for less than 2 years.