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Malaysians planning to drive overseas are reminded to always have a physical driving licence when travelling abroad, as digital versions may not be accepted by foreign authorities
The reminder comes as many Malaysian drivers have grown accustomed to using the digital version of their driving licence on the MyJPJ app, which can be shown directly to local enforcement officers from their smartphones.
A Malaysian woman was fined 1,000 baht (approximately RM120) after she failed to produce a physical driving licence during a police inspection in Hat Yai, Thailand, earlier this week
According to the New Straits Times, a Thai traffic police spokesman said the woman was driving a Malaysian-registered vehicle when she was stopped by a traffic officer in the popular tourist city.
"When Thai police asked her to produce her driving licence, she presented the digital version stored in the MyJPJ mobile application.
"Since her licence had recently been renewed, she had become accustomed to using the digital version, which she said was accepted in Malaysia.
"However, the traffic officer informed her that Thai authorities only recognised a physical Malaysian driving licence or an International Driving Permit.
"As she did not have either document with her, she was issued a 1,000 baht fine for failing to produce a valid driving licence," the spokesman said.
The spokesman added that Malaysian travellers will remember to prepare other essentials such as their passports, vehicle documents, Thai SIM cards, and exchanged currency before travelling, but often overlook carrying a physical driving licence
While the MyJPJ app has made it easier for Malaysians to access digital versions of their driving licences and road tax today, the Transport Ministry has clarified that motorists must still carry a physical driving licence when driving overseas.
Malaysians can apply for a physical driving licence for RM20, while foreign nationals are charged RM100.
