Digital driving licence only valid in Malaysia, says Loke

 

Transport minister Loke Siew Fook said those who want to drive in countries that require a physical licence can apply for it at JPJ counters when renewing their licence.

PETALING JAYA: Digital versions of driving licences are only valid in Malaysia and may not be recognised by the authorities in other countries, says transport minister Loke Siew Fook.

This follows a viral video of two Malaysians being issued traffic summonses in Thailand for failing to produce a physical copy of their driving licence to Thai authorities.

According to Bernama, Loke said the digital licences are subject to the laws of other countries, as the ministry cannot determine how other nations enforce their laws.

“We have not stopped issuing physical copies of driving licences. So, if they want to drive in a country that requires a physical licence, then they can apply for it at the road transport department’s (JPJ) counters when renewing (their licence),” he said.

Since February, Malaysians have been able to possess a digital version of their driving licence through the MyJPJ app, though the government has not done away entirely with physical copies.

Private vehicles owned by Malaysians also no longer have to display the motor vehicle licences, commonly referred to as the road tax disc, as part of the transport ministry’s efforts to digitise JPJ’s services.

Meanwhile, Loke said the online payment system to renew one’s road tax and driving licence on the MyJPJ app will be launched in a few months, after completion of its proof of concept.

The minister said this is to ensure the system launches smoothly and to prevent the app from crashing due to a high volume of users.

He said this will help alleviate congestion at JPJ counters. - FMT