Car Study Guide

Types of Driving Licenses

• LDL (Learner Driving License) — Issued after passing the Part 1 theory exam. Valid for 2 years. Allows supervised practice driving with a qualified accompanying driver.
• PDL (Probationary Driving License / P License) — Issued after passing Part II (circuit) and Part III (road) practical tests. Valid for 2 years. You must display the P plate at all times.
• CDL (Competent Driving License) — Full license issued after completing the 2-year probationary period without suspension.
• Vocational License (Lesen Vokasional) — Required for commercial vehicle operators such as bus, taxi, and e-hailing drivers.

Minimum Age

• Minimum age for car license: 17 years old
• License classes: D (manual transmission), DA (automatic transmission only)
• A DA license holder may only drive automatic vehicles. A D license holder may drive both manual and automatic.

Licensing Process

1. Register at an approved driving institute (Institut Memandu / IM)
2. KPP01 — Theory Class (6 hours): Road safety, traffic rules, road signs, driving ethics
3. Pass Part 1 Exam — Computer-based theory test (50 questions, 42 correct to pass)
4. Obtain LDL — Learner license valid for 2 years
5. KPP02 — Circuit Practical Training (5.5 hours): Hill start, parallel parking, three-point turn, side parking, slope parking
6. KPP03 — Road Practical Training (10 hours): Driving on public roads with an instructor
7. Pre-Test Evaluation — Assessment to determine readiness for the practical test
8. Pass Part II — Circuit driving test (on-course maneuvers at the driving institute)
9. Pass Part III — Road driving test (on public roads with a JPJ examiner)
10. Obtain PDL — Probationary license with P plate for 2 years
11. After 2 years — Convert to CDL (Competent Driving License)

Important Rules for P License Holders

• Must display P plate on the front and rear of the vehicle
• Accumulating 20 demerit points results in PDL cancellation
• Must re-register and retake all tests if PDL is cancelled
• Zero tolerance for alcohol — blood alcohol content must be 0% for P license holders

Characteristics

• Shape: Diamond (rotated square) · Colors: Yellow background, black symbols · Purpose: Warn of hazards ahead

Key Danger Signs

Tips

• Always reduce speed when you see a danger sign
• Scan ahead for hazards and be ready to stop
• Increase following distance in danger zones

Characteristics

• Shape: Circular · Colors: Red border, white background · Purpose: Actions that are forbidden

Key Prohibition Signs

Key Rules

• Red diagonal line through a symbol = prohibited
• Speed limits apply until the next speed sign or end-of-restriction sign
• Violations carry demerit points and fines

Characteristics

• Shape: Circular · Colors: Blue background, white symbols · Purpose: Actions you must follow

Key Mandatory Signs

Key Rules

• Blue circular signs are instructions, not suggestions — you must obey them
• Failing to follow mandatory signs is a traffic offense
• They override general road rules at specific locations

Information Signs

Shape: Rectangular · Colors: Blue or green background, white text/symbols

Temporary Signs

Shape: Diamond or rectangular · Colors: Orange/amber background, black text

Key Rules

• Temporary signs override permanent signs when both are present
• Always reduce speed in construction zones
• Fines are typically doubled in work zones

Purpose of Road Markings

Road markings guide traffic flow, indicate lane boundaries, and provide rules about overtaking, parking, and stopping. Understanding them is essential for safe driving.

White Line Markings

• Solid White Line (single) — Do not cross or straddle this line. Separates traffic flowing in the same direction. Stay in your lane.
• Broken White Line (dashed) — You may cross this line to overtake or change lanes when safe to do so.
• Double Solid White Lines — Absolutely no crossing from either direction. No overtaking allowed at all. This indicates a high-risk zone such as blind curves or hilltops.
• Solid Line with Broken Line (combination) — If the broken line is on your side, you may cross to overtake. If the solid line is on your side, you must not cross.

Yellow Line Markings

• Single Yellow Line — No parking during restricted hours (check nearby signs for specific times). Short stopping to pick up or drop off passengers may be allowed.
• Double Yellow Lines — No parking or stopping at any time.
• Yellow Zigzag Lines — No parking or stopping. Usually found near bus stops, pedestrian crossings, and emergency access areas.
• Yellow Box Junction — Do not enter the box unless your exit is clear. Blocking the box is an offense.

Other Important Markings

• Stop Line — Solid white line across your lane at a junction. You must stop behind this line. Your vehicle must not cross it when the light is red.
• Give Way Line (broken line across lane) — You must slow down and give way to traffic on the main road.
• Pedestrian Crossing (Zebra) — Black and white stripes across the road. You must stop for pedestrians who are on or about to step onto the crossing.
• Chevron Markings (diagonal stripes) — Areas marked with diagonal white lines bordered by solid lines. Do not enter this area — it separates traffic or provides a buffer zone.
• Directional Arrows — Arrows painted on the road surface indicate which direction you must travel in that lane. Follow them accordingly.
• Speed Limit Markings — Speed numbers painted on the road surface serve as reminders of the speed limit.
• Rumble Strips — Raised or grooved patterns on the road surface that create vibration and noise to alert drivers (common before toll plazas and sharp curves).

Key Rules

• Never overtake across double solid white lines
• Always stop behind the stop line at traffic lights
• Yellow markings relate to parking and stopping restrictions
• Follow directional arrows painted on the road

Driving Action Plan (PTP)

Before and during every driving maneuver, follow the PTP sequence:

• P — Position (Kedudukan): Ensure your vehicle is in the correct lane and position for the intended maneuver. Check mirrors.
• T — Speed / Kelajuan (Tukar Kelajuan): Adjust your speed appropriately. Slow down for turns, speed up for merging.
• P — Gear / Pecutan (Pindah Gear): Select the appropriate gear for the speed and road conditions. Downshift before corners, upshift on straights.

The CITO Concept (Hazard Identification)

• C — Concentrate (Tumpukan Perhatian): Keep full attention on the road. No mobile phone use. No eating or drinking while driving. Stay alert.
• I — Identify (Kenal Pasti): Spot potential hazards early — other vehicles, pedestrians, road conditions, weather changes, unexpected obstacles.
• T — Think (Fikir): Assess the risk level and decide on the safest course of action. What could go wrong? What is the escape route?
• O — Organize (Susun Atur): Execute your plan — change speed, position, signal, or stop as needed.

Safe Following Distance (2-Second Rule)

• Maintain at least a 2-second gap behind the vehicle in front under normal conditions
• In wet conditions, increase to 4 seconds
• In heavy rain or fog, increase to 6 seconds or more
• How to measure: Pick a fixed point (lamp post, sign). When the vehicle ahead passes it, count "one thousand and one, one thousand and two." You should not reach the point before finishing.
• When following large vehicles (lorries, buses), increase the distance further as they block your view

Mirror Usage (MSM Routine)

• M — Mirror: Check your rearview and side mirrors
• S — Signal: Indicate your intention
• M — Maneuver: Carry out the action
• Check mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds during normal driving
• Always check mirrors before: changing lanes, turning, overtaking, slowing down, stopping

Signaling

• Signal early enough to give other road users time to react — at least 30 meters before turning
• Signal before changing lanes, not during
• Cancel your signal after completing the maneuver
• Check that your signal does not confuse other road users

Road Priority — Visual Examples

Study these junction scenarios to understand who has right of way:

Key Signs for Safe Driving

Lane Discipline

• Stay in the left lane unless overtaking on multi-lane roads
• Return to the left lane after overtaking
• Do not straddle lane markings
• Use the correct lane for your intended direction at junctions
• On expressways, the right lane is for overtaking only

Driving in Rain

• Reduce speed — roads are most slippery in the first 10 minutes of rain due to oil and water mixing
• Increase following distance — braking distances can double or triple on wet roads
• Turn on headlights — even in daytime rain, use headlights so others can see you
• Turn on windshield wipers and demister/defroster
• Avoid sudden braking, sharp turns, or sudden acceleration
• Watch for hydroplaning — if the car feels like it is floating, ease off the accelerator gently
• Avoid driving through flooded areas — water can damage the engine and cause loss of control
• If visibility drops below 100 meters, use hazard lights

Related Signs

Driving at Night

• Use headlights — mandatory from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM
• Use low beam when following another vehicle or when oncoming traffic approaches to avoid blinding other drivers
• Use high beam on dark, unlit roads when no other vehicles are ahead or approaching
• Reduce speed — your visibility is limited to the range of your headlights
• Keep all windows and mirrors clean
• Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists who may be hard to see
• If blinded by oncoming headlights, look toward the left edge of the road until the vehicle passes

Highway / Expressway Driving

• Use the acceleration lane to match highway speed before merging
• Maintain a safe following distance — at least 2 seconds, more at high speed
• Overtake on the right only
• Do not stop on the highway unless it is an emergency — use the emergency lane
• Watch for exit signs early and position yourself in the correct lane
• Do not reverse or make U-turns on the highway

Urban Driving

• Watch for pedestrians, especially near schools, markets, and bus stops
• Be alert for vehicles pulling out of parking spaces or side roads
• Follow traffic signals strictly
• Be prepared for frequent stops and slow-moving traffic
• Check blind spots when changing lanes in multi-lane urban roads

Hill Driving

• Uphill: Use lower gears to maintain power. Do not ride the clutch.
• Downhill: Use engine braking by selecting a lower gear. Do not ride the brakes continuously — they can overheat and fade.
• Hill Start: Use the handbrake to prevent rolling back. Release handbrake smoothly as you engage the clutch.
• Give way to vehicles going uphill when the road is narrow

Parking Techniques

• Parallel Parking: Signal, position alongside the car ahead, reverse into the space using the reference point method
• Perpendicular Parking: Signal, slow down, turn into the bay at low speed
• Slope Parking (uphill): Turn front wheels away from the curb. If no curb, turn wheels toward the edge.
• Slope Parking (downhill): Turn front wheels toward the curb. Always engage the handbrake and leave the car in gear (1st or Reverse).

Regular Maintenance Checks

A well-maintained vehicle is safer, more fuel-efficient, and more reliable. Perform these checks regularly.

Engine Oil

• Check oil level using the dipstick — should be between MIN and MAX marks
• Change oil at intervals recommended by the manufacturer (typically every 5,000-10,000 km)
• Low oil level can cause engine overheating and severe damage
• Dark, gritty oil should be changed

Coolant

• Check coolant level in the overflow tank — should be between MIN and MAX
• Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot — risk of scalding
• Low coolant leads to engine overheating
• Top up with the correct type of coolant, not just water

Brake Fluid

• Check brake fluid level in the reservoir — should be between MIN and MAX
• Low brake fluid may indicate brake pad wear or a leak
• Replace brake fluid every 2 years or as recommended
• If the brake pedal feels spongy, have the braking system inspected immediately

Power Steering Fluid

• Check level regularly if your vehicle has hydraulic power steering
• Low fluid makes steering heavy and difficult
• Unusual noises when turning may indicate low fluid or a problem

Tires

• Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm for cars
• Check tire pressure at least monthly — refer to the sticker on the driver's door frame or manual
• Inspect for cracks, bulges, or embedded objects (nails, glass)
• Rotate tires every 10,000 km for even wear
• Ensure the spare tire is inflated and in good condition
• Under-inflated tires increase fuel consumption and risk of blowout
• Over-inflated tires reduce grip and ride comfort

Lights

• Check all lights regularly: headlights (high/low), tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, reverse lights, hazard lights
• Replace burnt-out bulbs immediately
• Clean headlight lenses for maximum visibility

Wipers

• Replace wiper blades when they streak or leave unwiped areas
• Keep the windshield washer fluid topped up
• Worn wipers are dangerous in rain — reduced visibility

Battery

• Check battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion
• Ensure connections are tight
• A battery typically lasts 2-4 years — replace before it fails
• Signs of a weak battery: slow cranking, dim lights when starting

Horn

• Must be in working condition at all times — it is a legal requirement
• Test regularly

Seatbelts

• Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory by law for the driver and all passengers
• Front and rear passengers must buckle up
• A seatbelt reduces the risk of fatal injury by up to 45% for front-seat occupants
• The seatbelt should sit across the chest and lap — never behind the back or under the arm
• Penalty for not wearing a seatbelt: fine of up to RM300 and demerit points

Child Seats / Child Restraint Systems

• Children must be secured in an appropriate child restraint system based on their age, weight, and height
• Rear-facing seat: For infants and toddlers (typically up to 2 years or 13 kg)
• Forward-facing seat: For young children (typically 2-4 years or up to 18 kg)
• Booster seat: For older children (typically 4-12 years or until 136 cm tall)
• Child seats must be installed in the rear seat of the vehicle
• Never place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active airbag

First Aid Kit

• Recommended to carry a basic first aid kit in the vehicle
• Should include: bandages, antiseptic, adhesive plasters, scissors, gloves, CPR mask
• Check and replace expired items regularly

Fire Extinguisher

• Recommended to carry a small fire extinguisher (1 kg dry powder type)
• Know how to use it: Pull pin, Aim at base of fire, Squeeze handle, Sweep side to side
• Check expiry date regularly
• Store in an accessible location in the car

Warning Triangle

• Must be carried in the vehicle — required by law
• Place at least 50 meters behind your vehicle if you break down or are in an accident on a regular road
• On highways, place the triangle at least 100 meters behind your vehicle
• The triangle alerts approaching traffic to slow down and be cautious

Spare Tire and Tools

• Ensure the spare tire is inflated and in good condition
• Know how to use the jack and wheel wrench to change a tire
• A spare tire is typically a temporary tire — do not exceed 80 km/h and replace with a full-size tire as soon as possible

Headrest

• Adjust the headrest to the correct height — the center should be at ear level
• Protects against whiplash injury in a rear-end collision
• Do not remove headrests from the vehicle

What is KEJARA?

KEJARA (Skim Kejara) is the demerit point system used by JPJ (Road Transport Department) to track traffic offenses. Points accumulate on your driving record when you commit traffic violations.

Consequences by License Type

• PDL (P License) — 20 points: License is cancelled. You must re-register and retake all tests from the beginning.
• CDL (Full License) — 40 points: License is suspended for 6 months.
• CDL — 60 points: License is suspended for 12 months.
• CDL — 80 points or more: License is revoked. Must retake all tests.

Common Car-Related Offenses and Demerit Points

• Speeding (exceeding limit by 1-25 km/h): 5 points
• Speeding (exceeding limit by 26-50 km/h): 10 points
• Speeding (exceeding limit by more than 50 km/h): 15 points
• Running a red traffic light: 10 points
• Using a mobile phone while driving: 10 points
• Not wearing a seatbelt (driver): 5 points
• Not wearing a seatbelt (passenger): 3 points
• Dangerous or reckless driving: 15 points
• Driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs: 20 points
• Failing to stop after an accident: 15 points
• Driving without a valid license: 10 points
• Overtaking on double lines: 10 points
• Not obeying traffic signs: 5 points
• Illegal U-turn: 5 points
• Driving with expired road tax or insurance: 5 points

Alcohol and Driving

• P license holders: Blood alcohol content must be 0% — absolute zero tolerance
• CDL holders: Blood alcohol content must not exceed 0.08% (80 mg per 100 ml of blood)
• Penalties for drink driving include: heavy fines, license suspension/revocation, and imprisonment
• Even one drink can impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination

Signs Commonly Violated

How to Check Your Demerit Points

• Visit the JPJ website or counter
• Use the MyJPJ mobile application
• Points reset only after the suspension or revocation period ends

Reducing Risk

• Always follow traffic rules and road signs
• Drive within the speed limit
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Always wear your seatbelt and ensure all passengers do the same
• Never use a mobile phone while driving — pull over if you need to make a call
• Attend road safety courses if available — some programs may reduce demerit points

Traffic Light Colors

• Red light — STOP. You must stop behind the stop line. Do not creep forward or enter the junction.
• Amber (yellow) light — CAUTION. Stop if you can do so safely. Only proceed if you are too close to stop safely.
• Green light — GO. You may proceed if the way is clear. Check for pedestrians and other vehicles before moving.

Traffic Light Sequence

The standard traffic light sequence in Malaysia is:

• Red → Red + Amber (prepare to go) → Green (go) → Amber (prepare to stop) → Red (stop)
• The red + amber combination means the light is about to turn green — prepare to move but do not go yet

Flashing Lights

• Flashing red light — Treat as a STOP sign. Come to a complete stop, check that the way is clear, then proceed.
• Flashing amber light — Proceed with caution. Slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary.

Green Arrow Signals

• A green arrow means you may go only in the direction the arrow points
• You must not turn in any other direction, even if the main light is green
• A green arrow with a red light means only traffic moving in the arrow direction may proceed

When Traffic Lights Are Not Working

• Treat the junction as an uncontrolled junction
• Give way to traffic coming from your right
• Proceed with extreme caution, looking in all directions
• If a police officer is present, follow their directions instead

Pedestrian Crossing Lights

• Pelican crossing — Pedestrian-operated crossing with traffic lights. A flashing amber light for drivers means give way to pedestrians still on the crossing, but you may proceed if the crossing is clear.
• Puffin crossing — Similar to pelican crossing but uses sensors to detect pedestrians. The light stays red until pedestrians have cleared the crossing.

Key Rules at Traffic Lights

• Always stop behind the stop line when the light is red — do not creep forward
• Do not enter a junction if your exit is not clear, even if the light is green (avoid blocking the junction)
• Running a red light carries 10 demerit points and a fine
• Be prepared to stop when you see an amber light — do not accelerate to beat the light

Speed Limits by Road Type

• Residential areas / school zones: 30 km/h
• Town / built-up areas: 50 km/h
• State roads (jalan negeri): 60–80 km/h
• Federal roads (jalan persekutuan): 90 km/h
• Highways / expressways: 110 km/h

Posted Speed Signs

• Speed limits can be changed by signs — always follow the posted speed limit signs on the road
• A speed limit sign overrides the default limit for that road type
• The speed limit applies until the next speed sign or an end-of-restriction sign

Minimum Speed on Highways

• On highways, there is typically a minimum speed of 60 km/h on the left lane
• Driving too slowly on a highway is dangerous and can cause accidents
• If your vehicle cannot maintain the minimum speed, do not use the highway

Adjusting Speed Below the Limit

Even when the speed limit allows a higher speed, you should reduce your speed in the following situations:

• Bad weather — Rain, fog, or strong winds reduce visibility and road grip
• Heavy traffic — Slow down when traffic is dense to maintain safe following distance
• School zones — Children may cross the road unexpectedly
• Construction zones — Workers and equipment may be near the road
• Residential areas — Pedestrians, cyclists, and parked cars create hazards
• Night driving — Your visibility is limited to your headlight range

Penalties for Speeding

• Exceeding limit by 1–25 km/h: 5 demerit points + fine
• Exceeding limit by 26–50 km/h: 10 demerit points + fine
• Exceeding limit by more than 50 km/h: 15 demerit points + fine
• Fines increase with the severity of the offense
• Repeat offenders face heavier penalties including possible license suspension

Key Tips

• Always check for speed limit signs, especially when entering a new area
• Speed kills — the faster you go, the longer it takes to stop and the more severe the impact in a crash
• Adjust your speed to road conditions, not just the posted limit

Immediate Actions at an Accident Scene

• Stop immediately — Do not flee the scene. Hit and run is a serious criminal offense in Malaysia.
• Turn on hazard lights — Alert other road users of the incident.
• Place a warning triangle — At least 50 meters behind your vehicle on a normal road, or 100 meters on a highway.
• Ensure safety first — Check for fire, fuel leaks, or other immediate dangers before approaching injured persons.

Calling Emergency Services

• 999 — Police, ambulance, and fire department (Malaysia emergency number)
• 112 — Universal emergency number (works on all mobile phones, even without a SIM card)
• Provide your location, number of vehicles involved, and whether there are injuries
• Stay on the line until the operator confirms your details

Handling Injured Persons

• Do not move injured persons unless there is immediate danger such as fire or explosion risk
• Moving an injured person incorrectly can worsen spinal or neck injuries
• If trained, provide first aid — control bleeding, keep the person warm, and monitor breathing
• Reassure the injured person and keep them calm until help arrives

Exchanging Information

• Exchange the following with all other parties involved:
• Name and IC number (identity card number)
• Driving license details
• Insurance information (company name and policy number)
• Vehicle registration number
• Take photos of the damage, the scene, and the positions of all vehicles

Making a Police Report

• You must make a police report within 24 hours of the accident
• Bring your driving license, IC, and vehicle registration documents
• The police report is required for insurance claims

Minor Accidents

• If the accident is minor and both vehicles can be moved, move them to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic
• On highways, move to the emergency lane and stand behind the safety barrier
• Do not stand in the middle of the road or on the highway

Important Reminders

• Do not admit fault at the scene — let the police and insurance companies determine liability
• Do not argue with the other party — stay calm and cooperative
• Failing to stop after an accident carries 15 demerit points and severe legal penalties

How Alcohol Affects Driving

• Alcohol slows reaction time — you take longer to respond to hazards
• Alcohol impairs judgment — you may take risks you would normally avoid
• Alcohol reduces coordination — steering, braking, and gear changes become less precise
• Alcohol affects vision — blurred vision, poor depth perception, and reduced peripheral vision
• Alcohol creates a false sense of confidence — you may feel capable even when you are impaired

Legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits

• CDL holders: Maximum BAC of 0.08% (80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood)
• P license holders: BAC must be 0% — absolute zero tolerance
• Even below the legal limit, alcohol affects your driving ability — the safest option is to not drink at all before driving

Penalties for Drink Driving

• Fine of up to RM2,000
• Imprisonment of up to 12 months
• License suspension or revocation
• 20 demerit points under the KEJARA system
• Repeat offenders face heavier penalties

Effects of Drugs on Driving

• Illegal drugs (marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, etc.) severely impair driving ability and are a criminal offense
• Prescription medications can also impair driving — always read warning labels on medication
• Medications that cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision should not be taken before driving
• If in doubt, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether it is safe to drive while taking the medication

Fatigue and Drowsy Driving

• Fatigue is as dangerous as drunk driving — it slows reaction time and impairs judgment
• Signs of fatigue: frequent yawning, heavy eyelids, drifting between lanes, difficulty focusing, missing exits
• If you feel tired while driving: stop at a rest area and take a nap (at least 15–20 minutes)
• Do not rely on coffee, energy drinks, or loud music alone to stay awake — these are only temporary fixes

Planning Long Journeys

• Plan regular rest stops — take a break every 2 hours of driving
• Share driving duties with another licensed driver if possible
• Avoid driving during hours when you would normally be sleeping
• Get a full night of sleep before a long journey

Authority of Traffic Police

When a traffic police officer is directing traffic, their signals OVERRIDE all traffic lights and road signs. You must always obey the officer's directions, even if they contradict what the traffic lights show.

Key Hand Signals

• Officer facing you with palm raised toward you — STOP. This is equivalent to a red light. You must not proceed.
• Officer's side facing you with arm extended horizontally — You may proceed. Traffic flowing parallel to the officer's outstretched arm may go.
• Officer beckoning you with hand — Move forward in the direction the officer is beckoning. Follow the officer's gesture.
• Officer waving arm up and down — Slow down. Reduce your speed as you approach.

Important Rules

• Always obey police signals even if they contradict traffic lights — the officer's directions take priority
• Slow down when approaching a junction where an officer is directing traffic
• Do not honk impatiently at an officer — wait for your signal to proceed
• If you are unsure of the officer's signal, stop and wait for a clearer instruction

Understanding the Officer's Position

• If the officer is facing you or has their back to you, you must STOP — you are seeing the "red light" equivalent
• If the officer's side is facing you (left or right shoulder pointing at you), you may proceed — you are seeing the "green light" equivalent
• Watch for additional hand gestures that may direct you to turn left, turn right, or go straight

Other Situations with Police Signals

• Police officers may set up roadblocks — slow down and follow their instructions
• At accident scenes, police officers may direct traffic around the scene — follow their signals carefully
• During events or emergencies, police may override normal traffic flow — always comply

Key Tips

• Stay alert and watch the officer's hand movements carefully
• Make eye contact with the officer when possible to confirm their signal is directed at you
• Proceed smoothly and predictably — do not make sudden movements
• Failure to obey a traffic police officer's signal is an offense carrying demerit points and fines