Driving in Kuala Lumpur
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in Kuala Lumpur
IDP Not Required
Malaysia accepts most foreign licenses for up to 3 months. IDP recommended for non-English licenses.
Fine without IDP: RM 300-2,000 ($65-435)
Where to Get IDP: Apply in your home country before traveling.
Accepted Licenses
Scooter & Motorbike Rental in Kuala Lumpur
Daily Rental Cost
RM 30-60/day ($6.50-13)Motorcycle license required. Scooters are common but city traffic is challenging.
Insurance Warning
Ensure rental includes insurance. Medical costs can be high.
Rental Tips
- KL traffic is very congested - consider using Grab
- Many locals use motorcycles to beat traffic
- Peak hour traffic can add hours to journeys
- Monsoon rains make riding dangerous
- Look out for potholes after heavy rain
Traffic Rules in Kuala Lumpur
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Drive on the LEFT (like UK)
- 2Motorcycles filter between lanes - it's normal
- 3Toll roads are common and can be confusing
- 4U-turns often require going past destination
- 5Many highways have Touch n Go or Smart Tag tolls
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Not having Touch n Go card (tolls)
- Underestimating traffic congestion
- Getting confused by highway interchanges
- Driving during monsoon rains
- Not accounting for parking in malls
Horn Culture
Moderate honking. Used more than Singapore, less than Vietnam.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
Speeding
RM 150-300 ($33-65)
No Helmet
RM 300 ($65)
No IDP
RM 300-1,000 ($65-215)
Red Light
RM 300 ($65)
Drink Driving
RM 1,000-6,000 ($215-1,300) + jail possible
Safety Tips
Essential Safety Tips
- Traffic jams are legendary - allow extra time
- Grab is often faster than driving yourself
- Watch for motorcycles filtering through traffic
- Keep windows up and doors locked in traffic
- Flash floods common during monsoon - avoid low areas
Best Time to Drive
Late night (after 10 PM) or very early morning. Midday OK for non-highway.
Rainy Season Warning
October-March: Monsoon season brings heavy rain and flash floods. Drainage can be poor in some areas.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- KLCC/Bukit Bintang during rush hour
- Federal Highway during peak times
- Any highway during Friday evening
Parking
Average Cost
RM 2-8/hour ($0.45-1.75)Scooter Parking
Free or very cheap at most locations. Designated spots common.
Parking Tips
- Shopping malls have abundant parking
- Street parking can be tricky in busy areas
- Most malls have first 1-2 hours free
- Parking apps available for street parking
FAQ: Driving in Kuala Lumpur
Do I need a car to get around Kuala Lumpur?
No. KL has good public transport (LRT, MRT, monorail) and Grab is cheap and convenient. Traffic is often so bad that driving is slower.
What is Touch n Go?
Touch n Go is a prepaid card used for highway tolls, parking, and payments. Essential if driving on Malaysian highways.
Is Kuala Lumpur traffic really that bad?
Yes. KL regularly ranks among Asia's most congested cities. A 10km journey can take 1-2 hours during rush hour.
Emergency Contacts
Police
999
Ambulance
999
Tourist Police
03-2149 6590
Roadside Assistance
AAM: 1800-88-0000
Practice for Your Malaysia Driving Test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.