From June 1, 2025, Indonesia’s driver’s licenses (SIM) will be officially recognized in several ASEAN countries, marking a significant milestone achieved by the Traffic Corps (Korlantas) through integrating the license with the National Identity Number (NIK).
This development is part of a broader initiative to streamline personal identification processes in Indonesia, linking driving licenses with other official documentation like tax numbers and health insurance.
Indonesia has taken a step forward by incorporating the National Identity Number into the driving licenses, facilitating easier data management and increasing document security.
The license recognition spans across ASEAN nations including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, Brunei, and Laos, based on the 1985 ASEAN Agreement on the Recognition of Domestic Driving Licenses.
The recognition allows Indonesian drivers to use their national driver’s license in these countries, aligning with local traffic regulations and fostering greater mobility.
Each country may have additional guidelines affecting the duration and validity of recognized driving licenses. For example, Singapore allows the use of a domestic license for 12 months from the date of entry.
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Indonesians without an International Driving Permit can apply for a local license in countries like Malaysia at designated driving institutes, as per embassy guidelines.
The recognition of Indonesian driving licenses simplifies travel and enhances connectivity across ASEAN. This move not only benefits Indonesian drivers but also promotes tourism and facilitates regional integration.
Starting June 2025, Indonesian driver’s licenses will be recognized across several ASEAN countries, allowing Indonesians to drive abroad with fewer restrictions and promoting a more integrated ASEAN community.
Source: Humas Polri (2024)
