Taiwan International Driving Permit Application Guide

If you’re planning a self-drive trip in Taiwan—whether you’re cruising through the scenic East Coast, winding up the mountains of Alishan, or navigating the lively streets of Taipei—you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Taiwan does not recognise the Malaysian driving licence on its own, so having an IDP is required to drive legally or rent a car there.

As a Malaysian who often drives abroad, I find the IDP essential. It helps avoid complications at rental counters and ensures smooth interactions with local authorities—especially in Taiwan, where proper documentation is strictly enforced.

📄 What Is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

Source: Taipei Times

An IDP is a small booklet that officially translates your Malaysian driving licence into multiple languages, including English and Chinese. It helps Taiwanese authorities and rental companies verify your driving eligibility quickly and accurately.

It does not replace your Malaysian licence—you must carry both:

• Your Malaysian driving licence
• Your IDP

Why Do Malaysians Need an IDP for Taiwan?

✅ Required by Taiwanese traffic regulations for foreign drivers
✅ Recognised by all major car rental companies
✅ Helps avoid issues during police checks
✅ Ensures a smoother, hassle-free driving and rental experience

Driving in Taiwan without an IDP may lead to:
❌ Fines or legal penalties
❌ Rejected car rental bookings
❌ Being prohibited from driving during your trip

Who Can Apply for an IDP in Malaysia?

You’re eligible if you:

• Hold a valid Competent Driving Licence (CDL)
• Are 18 years old or above
• Are in Malaysia or overseas (applications can be made remotely)

Not eligible:

• Holders of Learner’s (LDL) or Probationary (P) licences

⭐ How to Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) for Taiwan (For Malaysians)

Source: Focus Taiwan

If you’re a Malaysian planning to drive in Taiwan, here’s a clear step-by-step guide to obtaining your IDP in Malaysia.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

You must:

• Hold a valid Malaysian Competent Driving Licence (CDL) that is not expired or suspended
• Intend to drive in countries that recognise the 1949 Geneva Convention—including Taiwan

Note: Learner’s (LDL) and Probationary (P) licence holders are not eligible.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Make sure you have everything listed below before applying:

Step 3: Choose Where to Apply

Malaysians can obtain an IDP through:

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Option 1: Apply In Person

• Visit any JPJ branch or UTC JPJ counter nationwide
• Bring all required documents
• Fill in the IDP application form (JPJ L1)
• Submit your passport photo
• Make payment at the counter

Processing time: Usually within 30–60 minutes.

Step 5: Collect Your IDP

Note: JPJ currently does not offer full online IDP issuance. Collection must be done in person.

Step 6: Check Validity

• The Malaysian-issued IDP is valid for 1 year from the date of issuance
• You may renew it annually as long as your Malaysian driving licence is still valid
• The IDP is for use outside Malaysia only — it cannot be used as a domestic driving licence

🌍 Countries Where Malaysians Can Use an IDP (International Driving Permit)

Below is a general guide to countries that commonly accept the Malaysian-issued IDP under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Requirements may vary between countries, so always double-check with your car rental provider or the local transport authority before driving abroad.

Regions & Examples of Countries

🚦 Important Notes (Read Before You Travel)

1. Taiwan, Japan & South Korea

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for renting or driving a vehicle.
• Always carry both your Malaysian Driving Licence and your IDP.
• Taiwan accepts IDPs issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention only.

2. Europe

• Some EU countries allow foreign licences, but most car rental companies require an IDP, especially if the licence is not in a European language.
• Keep both your licence and IDP with you at all times.

3. Mainland China

• China does not recognise IDPs.
• You must apply for a Temporary Chinese Driving Permit to drive legally.

4. Singapore

• Malaysians may drive in Singapore using their Malaysian licence for short-term visits.
• For stays longer than 12 months, you must convert your licence to a Singapore driving licence.

5. Driving in Malaysia

• The IDP is not valid for domestic use.
• You must drive using your Malaysian Driving Licence within Malaysia.

💡 Quick Tips for Malaysian Travellers Using a Malaysian International Driving Permit (IDP) Overseas

1. Many Countries Require an IDP

If you’re planning to drive overseas in countries such as Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, Italy, Spain, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, or most parts of Europe, you will generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in Malaysia.

The Malaysian IDP follows the 1949 Geneva Convention, which is widely recognised. However, acceptance may still vary depending on each country’s laws and the policies of individual car rental companies.

2. Always Carry Your Malaysian Driving Licence

Even with an IDP, you must carry your original Malaysian Driving Licence. The IDP is only a translation booklet — it does not replace your licence.

3. Check Your Licence Expiry Before Travelling

Your IDP is valid only as long as your Malaysian licence is valid. If your licence is close to expiring, renew it before applying for or using your IDP.

4. Car Rental Requirements May Vary

Even in countries that officially accept the Malaysian IDP, some international car rental companies may still insist on seeing it.

To avoid issues at the counter:
✔ Check the rental company’s IDP policy before booking
✔ Bring both your licence and your IDP at all times

✅ Summary (For Malaysians Driving Overseas Using a Malaysian IDP)

📌 Driving in Made Simple

For travellers planning to drive in Taiwan, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) makes the process smooth and hassle-free. As long as your home-country driving licence is valid, you can use it together with an IDP to legally drive in Taiwan. Taiwan recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention IDP, which allows visitors to rent cars, scooters, or motorcycles during their stay.

If Taiwan requires an IDP for car rental or licence verification, you can apply for one through the issuing authority in your home country before you travel. The application process is usually easy, affordable, and can often be completed within a few days.

Always remember to carry both your original driving licence and your IDP while driving in Taiwan. Follow local traffic rules, stay alert on mountain and coastal roads, and be mindful of scooter-heavy traffic in major cities.

With the proper documents prepared, exploring Taiwan by road becomes convenient, flexible, and highly enjoyable.

Safe travels and happy driving! 🚗🇹🇼🌏

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