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Thrifty · Malaysia

Does Thrifty require an IDP in Malaysia?

Yes, bring one
Malaysia legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
Get my permit for Malaysia All Thrifty requirements
Thrifty in Malaysia
Thrifty IDP policyRequired for foreign drivers
Thrifty footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theLeft

Thrifty in Malaysia: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.

Malaysia drives on the left and recognises the IDP; tourists should carry one with their national licence to rent and drive.

In Malaysia specifically, malaysia legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Kuala Lumpur desks request an IDP for non-English licences.

Thrifty runs a global network; at its Malaysia desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Malaysia drives on the left, uses the MYR, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.

What to bring to the Thrifty counter in Malaysia

  • Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
  • Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
  • Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
  • Local payment for the MYR deposit; Malaysia drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Malaysia Thrifty renters should know

  • Drive on the left.
  • Touch 'n Go electronic tolls on highways.
  • 0.05% alcohol limit.
  • Helmets mandatory for motorbikes.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from Thrifty in Malaysia?
Malaysia legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the Thrifty desk in Malaysia?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. Malaysia drives on the left and the minimum rental age is typically 18+.
03
What is Thrifty's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
All Thrifty countriesDriving in Malaysia