How to Apply for VEP for Singapore Cars to Enter Malaysia
Planning a drive from Singapore to Malaysia? Whether it's a quick weekend escape or a regular business trip, getting a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) is essential if you're taking a Singapore-registered car across the border. In this guide, we’ll break down what the VEP is all about, why you need it, and how to apply for it without any hassle.
What Is a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP)
The Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) is an official pass issued by Malaysia’s Road Transport Department (JPJ) that every Singapore-registered vehicle needs to enter Malaysia as of 1 October 2024. Think of it as your car’s “passport” — it keeps things secure and organised at the border, ensuring a smoother journey for everyone.
The VEP system plays a key role in border security, helping Malaysia manage and track foreign vehicles to prevent issues like vehicle theft and car cloning. It also comes with an RFID-linked tag, making toll payments and the RM20 road charge a breeze through automatic detection at checkpoints.
To suit different travel needs, Malaysia offers two types of VEPs:
- Short-Term VEP
A short-term VEP is ideal for visitors planning a brief stay in Malaysia — whether you're a tourist on a weekend getaway or a Singaporean popping over for a quick visit. This permit is designed for short-term travel, offering flexibility with a validity range from 1 to 90 days.
- Long-Term VEP
The long-term VEP is the way to go if you’re a regular commuter or frequent traveller between Singapore and Malaysia. This permit is built for those who cross the border often, such as business commuters or regular visitors. Valid for up to 5 years, it saves you the hassle of frequent renewals and ensures uninterrupted access.
Do I Need a VEP
If you're bringing a Singapore-registered vehicle into Malaysia, a VEP is a must-have. This requirement covers all types of vehicles, but the steps on how to apply for it can differ depending on whether it’s your personal car or a rental.
Driving a Personal Car
For personal vehicles, a VEP ensures smooth entry at the border by linking your car to a unique RFID tag for toll payments and verification. To secure a VEP, you’ll need to go through a quick registration process online, upload a few documents, and install the RFID tag on your vehicle.
Driving a Rental Car
For those renting, the process can be even easier. With AVIS, for instance, all our rental cars come fully VEP-registered and ready to cross the border without any extra steps. This way, you can focus on your trip rather than the paperwork.
Documents Required
Getting your VEP is a breeze when you have the right documents. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
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Valid Driver’s Licence
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Vehicle Registration Card
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Proof of Identity (Passport or NRIC)
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Insurance Documents with cross-border coverage
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Certificate of Entitlement (COE)
Renting with AVIS? We'll ensure all the necessary documents are in order for your VEP application so you can focus on planning your Malaysian adventure.
The VEP Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
Wondering how to apply for a Malaysia VEP for a Singapore car? The process is straightforward:
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Register Online: Visit the JPJ VEP portal at vep.jpj.gov.my to create an account. Once registered, authenticate your account via the confirmation email. You’ll then be able to log in to start your application.
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Upload Required Documents: After logging in, upload your vehicle log card or manually fill in information such as your vehicle’s model, COE, and chassis numbers. You can also appoint a representative to apply on your behalf if needed.
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Pay the Processing Fee: A small fee applies for the RFID tag, which can be paid directly through the portal during the application process.
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Await Confirmation and Approval: After submitting your application, monitor your email for confirmation. Processing times can vary, with some applicants receiving approval within days while others may wait weeks. To check your application’s status, you can log in to vepams.jpj.gov.my for updates.
How Do I Receive the VEP-RFID Tag
Once your application is approved, you have two options for receiving your VEP-RFID tag:
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Self-Collection: You can pick up your RFID tag at designated collection centres in Johor. JPJ will notify you via email with details on when and where to collect it, along with any specific instructions.
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Home Delivery: For added convenience, you can choose to have the tag delivered to an address in Singapore or Malaysia. Note that additional fees apply for delivery to Singapore, including a service fee of RM30, a postage fee of around RM15, and applicable sales tax.
When installing the tag, it’s important to follow JPJ’s guidelines to ensure it functions correctly. The tag is typically placed on the left headlamp of your car. Proper placement helps with accurate toll detection and smooth passage through checkpoints.
Tips for Getting Your VEP
To make the VEP process as smooth as possible, here are some practical tips:
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Apply Early: Start your application well in advance to account for potential processing times. Knowing how to apply for VEP and getting ahead of the process helps avoid any last-minute delays.
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Consider Renting with AVIS: If you're looking to skip the lengthy registration process, AVIS has you covered with VEP-registered vehicles. Renting a VEP-ready car means you’re all set to cross the border without the extra steps.
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Activate Touch ’n Go: Linking your RFID tag to a Touch ’n Go account is a smart move for toll payments, making your drive through Malaysia that much smoother.
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Double-Check Your Documents: Ensuring all your documents are accurate and complete will help you avoid reapplying. A little attention to detail goes a long way!
Can I Enter Malaysia Without a VEP?
As of 1 October, every Singapore-registered vehicle crossing into Malaysia must have a VEP. Without it, private vehicles could face steep fines up to RM2,000 (S$575) or even potential jail time. Also, Malaysia’s JPJ may block entry or exit for vehicles with outstanding traffic violations.
But if you need to get to Malaysia on short notice, we have a quick fix: rent a car in Singapore with AVIS. Our VEP-ready vehicles save you from last-minute paperwork, letting you cross the border with ease and full compliance.
Smooth Cross-Border Travel with AVIS
When it comes to stress-free travel between Singapore and Malaysia, having a VEP-ready rental makes all the difference. With AVIS, you get more than just a car — you get a seamless experience designed around your travel needs:
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Vehicle Variety: From compact city cars to spacious SUVs, we have options to suit every need.
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Flexible Rentals: Choose from hourly, daily, or extended rentals — pay only for what you need.
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Long-Term Car Lease: For frequent travellers, our long-term car lease options (12-60 months) provide stability and savings.
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Convenient Locations: Pick up your car at Changi Airport Terminals 2 and 3 or Havelock Road for a smooth start to your trip.
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Unlimited Mileage: Travel without limits around Singapore or into Malaysia, with select drop-off points in Malaysia.
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Easy Car Booking Service: Our car booking service makes it quick and easy to reserve your ideal vehicle.
With a VEP-registered vehicle from AVIS, you’re set for a hassle-free journey. We make cross-border travel easy and enjoyable.
Rent Your VEP-Registered Cars TodayFrequently Asked Questions About Vehicle Entry Permits
The VEP is more than just a requirement — it helps keep things organised and secure. With the RFID tag, the VEP system makes border crossings smoother by automating toll payments and verifying vehicles at checkpoints. For Singapore-registered cars, this system ensures compliance with Malaysia’s regulations and helps avoid any hiccups during your travels.
Crossing into Malaysia without a VEP can result in heavy fines up to RM2,000 (S$575), potential jail time, and even restricted entry. Why risk the hassle? For those needing quick access, consider renting a VEP-ready car in Singapore with AVIS. With one of our compliant rentals, you can cross the border without worrying about unexpected penalties.
If you’re still waiting for your VEP to be approved, you can check your application status on the JPJ portal. But if you’re in a pinch and need to travel soon, AVIS has you covered with VEP-compliant rentals. This way, you won’t have to put any plans on hold while waiting for your VEP.
Every VEP tag is tied to the car and its registered owner, so if you’re driving a used car, the previous owner’s tag won’t work for you. To stay compliant, you’ll need to apply for a fresh VEP under your name. Unsure how to handle this quickly? You can simply rent a car in Singapore that’s VEP-ready from AVIS.
The VEP-RFID tag is specific to each vehicle, so unfortunately, it can’t be transferred if you switch cars. When you upgrade or change cars, you must apply for a new VEP to match your new vehicle. For a flexible solution, how about exploring AVIS long-term car lease options? Our VEP-ready vehicles make staying compliant easy.
If your VEP-RFID tag gets damaged or lost, you’ll need to report it on the VEP portal, and you may need a police report for lost tags. A replacement fee could apply, but once arranged, you’ll be back on the road in no time. With AVIS car booking service, you can also rent a compliant vehicle while you sort out your tag replacement.