Cross-border route

Malaysia Indonesia

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Malaysia into Indonesia, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Indonesia expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1949 Geneva format. Both countries drive on the left, so there is no change of driving side at the border. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.

Get my permit for Indonesia Indonesia requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromMalaysia

ToIndonesia

IDP in IndonesiaRequired

Accepted format1949 Geneva

Driving sideleft (no change)

Currency in IndonesiaIDR

Malaysia → Indonesia

Crossing the border

Malaysia and Indonesia share a land border you can cross by car. Keep your passport, national driving licence and International Driving Permit together, and check opening hours and any toll or vignette requirements before you travel.

Driving rules in Indonesia

Drive/ride on the left.
Helmets mandatory and strictly checked.
International + home licence carried together.
0.00% practical alcohol tolerance.

What to see when you arrive in Indonesia

the temples and rice terraces of Bali
Borobudur Temple
the Komodo National Park
Mount Bromo
the Gili Islands

Common questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Malaysia to Indonesia?

Yes — Indonesia requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Indonesia recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.

Does the driving side change between Malaysia and Indonesia?

No. Both Malaysia and Indonesia drive on the left.

How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?

International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.

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