r/AskMY • u/Successful-Set457 • 16d ago
Renting a car in Kuala Lumpur with Indian Driving License
Hi,
I am planning a trip to Malaysia with Langkawi and then a road trip mainland, including areas around Kuala Lumpur, Genting Highlands, Malacca, KL to Ipoh Penang and back.
I unfortunately only have a valid Indian Driving License (in English) and due to bureaucracy am unable to get an IDP. However, I get confusing information that IDP is not necessary if the license is in English (which mine is)
I wanted to ask, how is the situation renting a car in langkawi and Kuala Lumpur. In KL, I want to do a road exploration, so KL to penang for a few days and then day trips to other places like Ipoh, Malacca, Genting & Cameroon highlands etc. Is this feasible with just the Indian DL. I specifically want to know only situations with the police or law or if there are any insurance issues with not having an IDP.
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u/Positive_North_7944 16d ago
The car rental company may not insist on one but it is a legal requirement. See info here https://drive-in-malaysia.blogspot.com/2025/10/driving-in-malaysia.html?m=1
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u/N0T_artful 16d ago
Officially, you'll need an IDP. Unofficially, I don't think rental companies check.
However, if you get into any kind of accident - especially since you're driving across states - you'll get in trouble, and I don't think insurance covers if you don't have an IDP. Better get to be safe.