Kelantan RTD advises Malaysians driving into Thailand to carry a physical driving licence to avoid fines, as digital licences may not be recognised
KOTA BHARU: The Kelantan Road Transport Department (RTD) recommends that Malaysians planning to enter Thailand obtain and carry a physical Malaysian Driving Licence to avoid any problems during inspections by the country’s authorities.
Kelantan RTD director Mohd Misuari Abdullah said that although Malaysia is now implementing the use of Digital Driving Licences through the MyJPJ application, the public can still obtain a physical driving licence for a fee of RM20 at any JPJ office nationwide.
“JPJ issues physical licenses for a fee of RM20. In Malaysia, we use the MyJPJ application and if we use a digital display or screenshot, it is accepted by the authorities in this country.
“However, what happens to Malaysian tourists in Thailand is under the jurisdiction of the authorities of the country concerned,” he said at the Kucha Sugho 2026 Ceremony with Strategic Partners and the Community here today.
Mohd Misuari was commenting on the viral incident involving a Malaysian who was allegedly fined 1,000 baht (RM123) by the Thai authorities for failing to present a physical driving license during inspection.
He said based on unofficial contacts with authorities in southern Thailand, particularly in Narathiwat, the existence of a Malaysian digital driving license is known, but information about it may not have been widely disseminated or there are no written guidelines for implementation on the ground.
“Therefore, if people want to go there, it is best to obtain a physical license before traveling to avoid any inconvenience during inspection,” he said.
He also reminded Malaysians to always comply with the laws of the country they are visiting and to prepare all the necessary documents to ensure a smooth journey.
“We are very well known for our discipline. Wherever we are, we will be known as disciplined people. Therefore, obey the rules and prepare the necessary documents to ensure a smooth journey,” he said
