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Getting an international driving license is an easy process. You simply fill out the form on the website and get your digital license in a few minutes and your printed one in less than 2 weeks. However, what do you do after you have your international driving license Malaysia?
Assuming you have gotten your IDP before going on an international trip, there are a few things you need to do to ensure you are safe on your travels. So, let’s take a look at the different things you need to do after getting your IDP and how it can help you on your international trip.
Document Checklist Before You Go On Your International Trip
Going on an international trip with your own vehicle can be a hassle. There are a lot of documents you need to carry to ensure you are safe on the road. You must also carry valid identification, including your passport, local driver’s license, and other relevant vehicle registration documents.
One of the most important regulations you must follow with your IDP is that the IDP is invalid unless you are carrying your original domestic driver’s license with you at all times. Similarly, if you are going on a trip with your own vehicle, you need to carry all the relevant documents for your vehicle, including its registration certificate, pollution under control certificate, and even your insurance documents.
These documents are imperative to your trip, as without them, you can be detained by foreign police officials and land in significant trouble. Here’s a checklist of all the documents you need to carry alongside your IDP.
- Original driving license from your country of origin
- Vehicle registration documents
- Pollution under control certificate
- Vehicle insurance certificate
Even if you are renting a vehicle at a foreign location, you will need all these documents. So, when you are checking out with your vehicle from the rental organization, make sure you have all these documents for the vehicle you are renting. This will ensure you are safe legally when driving internationally. However, documents are not the only thing you need to keep yourself safe; there are other rules and regulations that you need to follow.
Rules & Regulations That You Must Follow When Using International Driving License Malaysia
The Side of the Road Where You Should Drive
Driving on a different/other side of the road is one of those things that seems quite easy to understand but, in reality, is hard to follow. As a driver, you are used to driving on a particular side of the streets, and you expect others to follow the same. So, when you suddenly have to change your instincts, it can be difficult. It is important to be mindful on the road and follow this rule to avoid trouble and keep others and yourself safe on the road.
Speed Limits
The easiest way to get in trouble is to not follow speed limits in a foreign country. Even if you are not able to see the speed limit signs on the road, you should just follow the average speed you see others following on the road. Or, just for your reference, you should drive under 60 kmph or 40 mph. It will help you be safe if you are not on highways. Highways have different speed limits, and you will find easy-to-locate speed limit boards on highways, which will help you travel safely.
Seatbelts & Helmets
These are non-negotiable. Seatbelts and helmets are absolutely necessary at any time when you are behind the wheel. Not only for the driver and the passengers also need to wear their seatbelts and/or helmets when in the vehicle. This is crucial in keeping you safe on the road and from law enforcement. Not wearing seat belts can get your license suspended and even arrested on foreign soil. Based on the country you are visiting, the punishment and your experience with law enforcement may vary.
Driving Under The Influence
Driving under the influence is a big issue in almost any foreign location. Even if it is an allowed substance in the country, driving under the influence will, in every situation, get you arrested. It is a serious offense that can lead to jail time and fines, at the very least. If you are found under the influence of prohibited substances like drugs, the penalty only increases and can get you in serious trouble.
Using a Phone While Driving
Texting while driving or attending a call while you are driving is strictly prohibited in most countries and can land you in trouble with law enforcement. If there’s an urgent need, cars today come with hands-free calling features to keep you safe. So use that instead of using headphones or putting your phone up to your ears while driving. Two-wheelers come with these features, too, with helmets being able to make calls allowing you to get hands-free connectivity.
Driving With an Expired License
Your IDP is not a driving license, but only a driving permit. That’s why you need to have your original driving license with you when you are driving on the road. So, if you are found driving with an expired license, you will be treated as if you are driving without one. So, the punishment will be similar to fines, imprisonment, and even criminal charges if you cause harm to others due to your negligence.
Conclusion
An international driving license Malaysia is a great way for you to explore countries beyond yours at your own pace. However, there are many prerequisites and rules you must know and follow to travel safely. So, make sure you follow all the regulations mentioned in this article. And if you haven’t already, you can get your IDP from their official website in a matter of minutes. Just remember, your original driving license must have at least 6 months left before expiry when you are going on international travel with your IDP.
