Car Registration and Licensing in Malaysia: A Guide to the Process, Requirements, and Fees

In Malaysia, registering a car and obtaining the appropriate licenses are essential steps when purchasing a new or used vehicle. The process ensures that your vehicle complies with the country’s road regulations and that you are legally allowed to drive it. Whether you’re a first-time car owner or looking to renew your registration, this guide will walk you through the necessary steps, requirements, and fees associated with car registration and licensing in Malaysia.

Step 1: Purchase and Insurance

Before you can register a vehicle in Malaysia, you must first purchase the car and obtain motor insurance.

Motor Insurance

• Why It’s Important: In Malaysia, having valid motor insurance is mandatory before you can register your vehicle. You need at least a Third-Party Insurance policy, though many car owners opt for Comprehensive Insurance, which covers more risks.
• How to Get It: You can buy motor insurance from various providers, either in person or online. When applying, you’ll need to provide details about your vehicle and your personal information. Once approved, you’ll receive an insurance cover note, which is necessary for registration.

Step 2: Registration of the Vehicle

Once you have purchased motor insurance, the next step is to register your vehicle with the Road Transport Department Malaysia (Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan or JPJ).

New Vehicle Registration

If you’re purchasing a new vehicle from a car dealership, the dealership will usually handle the registration process for you. Here’s what you need to know:

• Documents Required:
  • Original and photocopy of the vehicle’s sales invoice.
  • Your IC (identity card) or passport for foreigners.
  • Motor insurance cover note.
  • Customs clearance documentation (if the vehicle is imported).
  • Proof of purchase or hire-purchase agreement.
  • Application form (JPJ K1).
• Process:
  • Submit the required documents at a JPJ office or via an authorized dealership.
  • The JPJ will issue a Vehicle Registration Certificate (VOC) and assign a vehicle registration number (license plate). If you wish, you can also apply for a customized or special registration number through an auction or bidding system.
• Fees:
  • The registration fee for a private vehicle ranges from RM300 to RM500, depending on the vehicle’s engine capacity and type.

Used Vehicle Registration

If you’re buying a used car, the registration process will differ slightly. You will need to ensure the vehicle is transferred to your name through JPJ.

• Documents Required:
  • Existing Vehicle Registration Certificate (VOC) from the previous owner.
  • Transfer of ownership form (JPJ K3).
  • Proof of motor insurance under your name.
  • IC or passport (for foreigners).
• Process:
  • Both the buyer and seller must visit a JPJ branch to complete the transfer of ownership.
  • Once all documents are submitted and verified, the JPJ will update the vehicle registration in your name and issue a new VOC.
• Fees:
  • Transfer of ownership fees for private vehicles typically range between RM100 to RM300, depending on the vehicle’s type and engine capacity.

Step 3: Road Tax (Cukai Jalan)

Once your vehicle is registered, you’ll need to pay road tax, which is required for driving legally on Malaysian roads. The road tax fee is based on the engine capacity, vehicle type, and region.

How to Calculate Road Tax

• West Malaysia (Peninsular Malaysia): Road tax fees are generally higher in West Malaysia compared to East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak).
• Engine Capacity: Road tax is calculated based on the vehicle’s engine size. For example:
  • 1,000cc or below: RM20 – RM70.
  • 1,001cc – 1,400cc: RM70 – RM90.
  • 1,401cc – 1,600cc: RM90 – RM200.
  • 1,601cc – 2,000cc: RM200 – RM380.
  • Above 2,000cc: Road tax increases significantly, sometimes reaching into the thousands.

How to Pay Road Tax

• Online Payment: You can pay road tax online through the MySikap portal or authorized platforms such as MyEG. After payment, you will receive a receipt and can either have the road tax disc mailed to you or collect it in person.
• In-Person: Visit any JPJ office or Pos Malaysia branch to pay your road tax and collect the tax disc on the spot.

Note: Displaying your road tax disc on the windshield of your car is mandatory in Malaysia.

Step 4: Car Licensing (Driving License)

In addition to registering your vehicle and paying road tax, you must have a valid Malaysian driving license to operate a vehicle.

Types of Driving Licenses

• Learner’s Driving License (LDL): This is the first step in obtaining a driving license in Malaysia. It’s a provisional license that allows you to drive while learning.
• Probationary Driving License (PDL): After passing the driving test, you’ll receive a PDL, valid for two years.
• Competent Driving License (CDL): After completing the probationary period, you can convert your PDL into a CDL. The CDL must be renewed every one to five years, depending on the chosen renewal period.

Fees:

• Learner’s and Probationary License: Approximately RM30 – RM60 annually.
• Competent Driving License: RM30 for a one-year renewal.

Step 5: Vehicle Inspection (PUSPAKOM)

In some cases, particularly for commercial vehicles, used vehicles, or vehicles over 10 years old, you may need to have your car inspected by PUSPAKOM (Pusat Pemeriksaan Kenderaan Berkomputer) to ensure roadworthiness and compliance with Malaysian safety standards.

• Inspection Requirements: Vehicle inspections are required for:
  • Transfer of ownership for used vehicles.
  • Commercial vehicles (taxis, buses, etc.).
  • Cars older than 10 years.
• Fees: Inspection fees vary, typically ranging from RM50 to RM100 for standard inspections.
• How to Schedule: You can book an appointment with PUSPAKOM online or by visiting a PUSPAKOM inspection center.

Step 6: Renewing Registration and Road Tax

Your car registration and road tax must be renewed periodically, usually on an annual basis.

Road Tax Renewal

• You can renew your road tax through the MySikap portal, MyEG, or at a JPJ office or Pos Malaysia branch.
• Be sure to have your motor insurance up to date, as you will not be able to renew your road tax without valid insurance coverage.

Vehicle Registration Renewal

• Vehicle registration certificates (VOC) do not need to be renewed annually, but you must keep them updated with any changes (e.g., if the vehicle is sold or transferred).

Fees Summary

Registering and licensing a car in Malaysia involves several key steps, from obtaining motor insurance to registering your vehicle with JPJ, paying road tax, and ensuring your driving license is valid. While the process can seem complex, understanding the requirements, documents, and fees involved can make it much smoother. Regular renewal of road tax and vehicle inspections will keep your car legal on the road, ensuring compliance with Malaysian traffic laws.