New Vehicle Entry Permit rules for foreign vehicles: A comprehensive guide

Starting October 1, 2024, all foreign-registered vehicles entering Malaysia by land from Singapore will be required to use Vehicle Entry Permits (VEPs), as announced by Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke on Tuesday (May 28). This initiative is part of Malaysia’s broader strategy to enhance border control and traffic management.

The Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) is issued by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and is essential for the lawful entry of foreign vehicles into Malaysia. In addition to the Singapore-Malaysia border, the government plans to extend the VEP and Road Charge (RC) system to the Malaysia-Thailand border, further bolstering the country’s border security measures.

This measure aims to streamline vehicle entry and enhance traffic management. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you need to know and the steps to apply for a VEP.

What is JPJ Malaysia’s Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP)?

The Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) is issued by Malaysia’s Road Transport Department (JPJ) under Section 66H of the Road Transport Act 1987. Each VEP is valid for five years and allows foreign vehicles to enter Peninsular Malaysia.

Who Needs to Apply for a VEP?

All categories of foreign vehicles, including private cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles, must register for a VEP. This requirement extends to embassy and government vehicles.

Can My Vehicle Enter Malaysia Without a VEP?

Currently, vehicles can enter Malaysia without a VEP. However, from October 1, 2024, vehicles without a VEP may face a fine of up to RM2,000 or a jail term of up to six months.

Fees for Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) and Road Charge (RC)

• VEP Fee: RM10, valid for five years. Non-transferable.
• Road Charge (RC): RM20 per entry for private vehicles. This charge does not apply to motorcycles, commercial, government, or embassy vehicles.

Steps to Apply for Vehicle Entry Permit

1. Online Registration: Vehicle owners or their representatives must register online via the Road Traffic Department’s official website at JPJ VEP Portal. After registration, users will be directed to the VEP portal at VEPAMS to complete the process.
2. Touch N’ Go eWallet: Download and register for the Touch N’ Go eWallet from your mobile application store before proceeding with the VEP portal.
3. Document Submission: Log in to the VEP portal and submit necessary documents, including motor insurance, NRIC, and the certificate of entitlement.
4. RFID Tag Collection: Upon approval, choose your method of collecting the VEP RFID tag – either via courier to your address or self-collection at a VEP collection centre in Johor Bahru. Payment for the tag, which costs RM10 excluding delivery and service charges, can be made online.
5. Tag Acknowledgement: Once the RFID tag is received, perform “tag acknowledgement” by logging in to the VEP portal and validating the RFID serial number.

How to Attach the RFID Tag

The RFID tag allows payment for road charges and toll fees using designated RFID lanes across Malaysian highways. The tag is linked to the user’s Touch N’ Go eWallet account and is valid for five years from the activation date.

• The RFID tag can be attached to the top left corner of the windscreen or the left headlamp, at least 5 centimeters away from any metal part of the car body.
• Clean and dry the surface, peel the tag gently from its edges, and paste it horizontally on the left headlamp or windscreen.
• Avoid placing it on a curved part of the headlamp.
• Snap a photo of the tag with the car registration number and upload it to the portal.

What If I Need to Stay in Malaysia for More Than 90 Days?

• Foreign vehicles are permitted to stay in Malaysia for up to 90 days per entry. For longer stays, contact Malaysia’s JPJ.

Best Time to Renew Vehicle Entry Permit

• It is recommended to renew your VEP six months before it expires.

Transfer and Damage of VEP RFID Tags

• Non-Transferable: The tag is unique to each vehicle. For new vehicles, a new RFID tag must be registered.
• Damaged Tags: Report stolen, lost, or damaged tags through the portal and submit a police report for replacement. An administrative fee applies, except for faulty tags which are replaced for free.

For further details and assistance with the VEP application process, visit the official JPJ VEP Portal or contact JPJ customer service.