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New Straits Times
17-05-2025
- Automotive
- New Straits Times
Move to end foreign licence conversion gains praise over fraud concerns
KUALA LUMPUR: The government's decision to discontinue the conversion of foreign driving licences to Malaysian licences has been welcomed as a positive step to strengthen the process and help prevent potential issues, including alleged fraud cases. Ch'ng Toh Ghee, managing director of Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) agency Alter Domus, said the policy shift is understandable as Malaysia seeks to tighten compliance and improve road safety standards involving foreigners. He said while MM2H participants are exempted from the ruling, the move is still timely and necessary to ensure uniformity and prevent abuse. "This policy is a good move as it helps strengthen the process and enables authorities to prevent potential issues, such as document fraud during the conversion of foreign licences," he told the New Straits Times. He added that the decision likely stems from previous cases of possible fraud, prompting the authorities to act. "Some countries do not follow Malaysia's standards when issuing driving licences. "By standardising the process, the government is ensuring that all drivers, regardless of nationality, meet local safety and competency standards," he said. Ch'ng also acknowledged that, although the announcement came at the last minute, it demonstrates the government's urgency in addressing the matter. "Although the announcement was only made on May 17, with implementation set for May 19, we understand the urgency. It shows the government is serious about curbing issues related to licence fraud. "While last-minute, it is a necessary and commendable move that deserves support." The Road Transport Department (RTD) on Saturday had announced that all applications to convert foreign driving licences to Malaysian driving licences (LMM) will be discontinued effective May 19. Its director-general, Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli, said that foreigners requiring an LMM will now have to follow the existing procedures to obtain the licence, just like Malaysian citizens. However, several categories of applicants will not be affected by the new ruling, including members of the diplomatic corps and participants in the MM2H programme. Meanwhile, foreigners residing in Malaysia temporarily for less than 12 months are subject to specific conditions. Citizens from countries that are signatories to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic are allowed to drive using an International Driving Permit issued by the relevant authorities of their respective countries. As for Asean nationals, they only need to use their domestic driving licences, in accordance with the 1985 Asean Agreement on the Recognition of Domestic Driving Licences.
Copts Today
24-03-2025
- Automotive
- Copts Today
How to Obtain an International Driving Permit in Egypt
Driving internationally opens the door to freedom and adventure, but legal requirements vary by country. One essential document for international drivers is the International Driving Permit (IDP). For Egyptian citizens planning to travel abroad, or foreigners living in Egypt intending to drive overseas, its important to understand what an IDP is, where its accepted, and how to obtain one. An International Driving Permit is a document that translates your domestic driving license into several widely spoken languages. It is governed by international conventions such as the 1949 Geneva Convention and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. ◾️ Recognized in over 150 countries. ◾️Valid alongside your original drivers license. ◾️Translates your license into 10+ languages. ◾️Typically valid for one year. What Its Not: ◾️ Not a replacement for your national drivers license. ◾️ Does not give you the right to drive if your national license is expired. Where Do You Need an IDP? Many countries require or strongly recommend having an IDP for foreign drivers, especially if your license is in a non-Latin script such as Arabic. Examples of countries that require or recommend IDPs: ◾️ Italy, Spain, Greece, France (strongly recommended or required) ◾️ Japan, South Korea, Thailand (mandatory) ◾️ Brazil, Argentina, Chile (recommended for tourists) ◾️ UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait (required for tourists) ◾️ USA and Canada (varies by state/province, often recommended) Having an IDP can prevent delays, legal issues, or denial of insurance coverage. How Egyptian Citizens Can Obtain an IDP In Egypt, the IDP is issued by Automobile and Touring Club of Egypt (ATCE), under the supervision of the Ministry of Interior and in accordance with the 1949 Convention. Requirements: ◾️ A valid Egyptian drivers license. ◾️ A national ID card or passport. ◾️ Two passport-sized photographs. ◾️ A completed application form. ◾️ Payment of the applicable fee (approximately EGP 500600). Steps to Apply: ◾️ Visit the Automobile and Touring Club of Egypt (ATCE) office in Cairo or other major cities. ◾️ Present the required documents and fill in the application form. ◾️ Pay the issuance fee. ◾️ Receive the IDP (often on the same day or within a few days). Validity: ◾️ Valid for 1 year from the date of issue. ◾️ Must always be accompanied by your original Egyptian license when driving abroad. Can Egyptian Drivers Use Their License Abroad Without an IDP? While some countries accept Egyptian licenses for short visits, most require an IDP due to language or legal recognition issues. Without an IDP: ◾️ You may face legal penalties or fines. ◾️ Car rental agencies may refuse service. ◾️ Insurance claims may be denied after an accident. To ensure compliance, Egyptian travelers should always carry an IDP when driving abroad. How Foreigners in Egypt Can Obtain an IDP? Many expatriates and travelers in Egypt ask: Can I get an IDP based on my foreign license while living here? Short Answer: No IDPs must be issued by the country that originally issued your driving license. Egyptian authorities do not issue IDPs to holders of foreign licenses. What Should Foreign Residents Do? Apply for an IDP in Your Home Country: ◾️ Use your home countrys automobile club or licensing authority. ◾️ Many countries offer online or postal applications. ◾️ Contact Your Embassy in Egypt: Some embassies provide support or guidance for obtaining or renewing IDPs. ◾️ Carry Both Documents: Always travel with your original license and IDP when driving abroad. ◾️ Converting Foreign Licenses in Egypt: Foreigners staying in Egypt long-term can sometimes convert their foreign license into an Egyptian one. Rules vary depending on your country of origin. Tips for Egyptian Travelers Planning to Drive Abroad ◾️ Check driving laws in your destination before departure. ◾️ Carry your IDP and original license at all times. ◾️ Have your passport and visa ready for identification. ◾️ Understand local traffic rules and signage. ◾️ Use GPS or updated maps for navigation. ◾️ Avoid driving in unfamiliar conditions (e.g., snow, mountain roads) if you have limited experience. Egyptian citizens can drive abroad legally and confidently by obtaining an International Driving Permit through the Automobile and Touring Club of Egypt. Though it is not a standalone license, the IDP is a powerful tool to ensure international recognition of your driving credentials. Foreigners living in Egypt must apply for an IDP in their home country, as Egyptian authorities issue the permit only for Egyptian licenses. Regardless of your nationality, having an IDP is one of the smartest steps you can take to stay compliant, safe, and worry-free while driving abroad.
