SHAH ALAM - Drivers will now be allowed to renew driving licence for 10 years, the Transport Ministry says.
Tranpsort Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the current limit is for 5 years.
He further said the extension is only for Malaysian citizens and does not apply to foreigners.
"Those keen must ensure that the remaining validity period of their driving license is not more than one year.," said Loke in a statement.
Loke also said it was only applicable to licences renewed at the Road Transport Department (JPJ) office or counter, starting May 8.
"Anyone who renews their licence for a 10-year period will only be charged for the nine-year fees, meaning that there is a 10 per cent discount.
"The driving licence fee is RM30 per year. Thus, for 10 years, you only need to pay RM270 and can save up to RM30.
"Interested parties need to ensure their license's remaining validity period does not exceed one year.
"However, the public is always allowed to renew their licence between the minimum one-year and maximum 10-year periods, depending on their own choice.
"However, only one-time 10-year licence renewals can enjoy the free 10-year discount," he said in a press conference today.
He said the initiative is only for Malaysian citizens and does not apply to foreigners, long-term pass holders, or MyKAS Card holders who are bound by their passport's validity period.
In the press conference, Loke also announced a second initiative, which is to give special permission to renew an already expired licence.
The initiative was made in consideration of Movement Control Orders (MCO) during the pandemic and other constraints faced by Malaysians abroad who could not renew their licence since they couldn't return home.
"The Ministry will give special permission to people whose licence has expired to renew their licence without having to retake the driving test.
"However, this special permission is only limited to licences expired from Jan 1, 2018, onwards.
"The special permission is only valid until Dec 31, 2023, and the existing rules will come into effect again on Jan 1, 2024," he said.
Loke also said JPJ is fully prepared to implement the two initiatives announced.