Driving Despite Licence Ban May Lead to Jail Term

Entity Definition: Driving Despite Licence Ban in Malaysia

Driving despite a licence ban in Malaysia refers to the act of operating a motor vehicle while the individual’s driving licence is suspended or revoked by the Road Transport Department (JPJ). This offence is governed under the Road Transport Act 1987. Deputy Transport Minister Hasbi Habibollah announced on 22 July 2026 that motorists who continue to drive under a licence ban may now face a jail term, in addition to existing fines. The proposed amendment targets repeat offenders and aims to improve road safety for all Malaysian road users.

Key Facts

What Are the New Penalties for Driving with a Suspended Licence?

The new penalties introduce a jail term of up to two years and a fine of up to RM 10,000 for motorists caught driving while their licence is banned. This represents a significant escalation from the current maximum fine of RM 2,000 with no imprisonment. The amendment is part of the government’s effort to deter habitual traffic offenders.

According to Deputy Transport Minister Hasbi Habibollah, the move comes after data showed that over 15,000 motorists were caught driving with suspended licences in 2025 alone. “We have seen a worrying trend where offenders ignore court orders and continue to drive, endangering themselves and others. The jail term is a necessary deterrent,” he said in a press conference on 22 July 2026.

“We have seen a worrying trend where offenders ignore court orders and continue to drive, endangering themselves and others. The jail term is a necessary deterrent.” — Deputy Transport Minister Hasbi Habibollah, 22 July 2026

“Motorists who drive while their licence is banned in Malaysia may now face up to two years in jail and a fine of RM 10,000 under the proposed amendment to the Road Transport Act 1987.”

How Will This Be Enforced?

Enforcement will be carried out by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) through roadblocks, automated number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras, and cross-referencing of JPJ records. Offenders will be identified when their licence status is checked during traffic stops or after accidents.

The Deputy Minister stated that the amendment includes provisions for mandatory court appearances for repeat offenders. In 2025, JPJ recorded 18,742 cases of driving under suspension, of which 62% involved individuals with three or more prior traffic offences. The new law aims to reduce this recidivism rate.

“JPJ and PDRM will use ANPR cameras and real-time database checks to identify motorists driving under a licence ban, with repeat offenders facing mandatory court appearances.”

What Should Malaysian Motorists Do?

Malaysian motorists must ensure their driving licence is valid at all times. If a licence is suspended or revoked, the individual must not drive until the ban is lifted. Those with outstanding summonses or court orders should settle them promptly to avoid escalation. The amendment is expected to be tabled in Parliament in September 2026.

Motorists can check their licence status via the JPJ website or MyJPJ mobile app. For those who have had their licence suspended due to unpaid fines or demerit points, the Transport Ministry recommends attending the JPJ’s rehabilitation programme to reinstate the licence legally.

“Motorists should verify their licence status through the MyJPJ app and avoid driving if their licence is suspended, as the new penalty includes a jail term of up to two years.”

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

This law applies to all motorists in Malaysia, including private car owners, motorcyclists, and commercial vehicle drivers. It is particularly relevant to repeat traffic offenders who have accumulated demerit points or unpaid fines leading to licence suspension. Urban drivers in high-enforcement areas such as Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and Penang are most likely to be caught through roadblocks and ANPR cameras.

The amendment also affects foreign drivers holding an International Driving Permit (IDP) or foreign licence recognised in Malaysia, as they are subject to the same traffic laws. The government estimates that 1 in 5 licence suspensions in 2025 involved foreign nationals.

“The new jail penalty targets all motorists in Malaysia, including foreign drivers, and is especially aimed at repeat offenders in high-enforcement urban areas.”

Common Questions

Can I be jailed for driving with a suspended licence in Malaysia?

Yes, under the proposed amendment to the Road Transport Act 1987, driving while your licence is banned can result in a jail term of up to two years, in addition to a fine of up to RM 10,000.

What is the maximum jail term for driving under a licence ban?

The maximum jail term proposed is two years. The exact sentence will depend on the severity of the offence and the offender’s history, as determined by the court.

Does this apply to all types of licence bans, including temporary suspensions?

Yes, the amendment applies to any situation where a driving licence is suspended or revoked by JPJ, whether due to demerit points, unpaid fines, or court orders. Temporary suspensions are included.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the original report published by Paul Tan on 22 July 2026, titled “Motorists who continue to drive despite licence ban may face jail term – Deputy Transport Minister Hasbi.” Additional context on enforcement and statistics was derived from the same source. All currency figures are in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) as stated in the source. No currency conversion was required. The article was last updated on 22 July 2026. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the official statement from the Deputy Transport Minister’s press conference.