Malaysia's new driving school rules unlock unused spaces for training

The Road Transport Department Malaysia (JPJ) has rolled out fresh guidelines for Driving Institutes (IMs) across the country. These changes aim to tighten oversight of the industry while offering more flexibility in where and how driving schools can operate. Under the updated rules, driving institutes can now set up training circuits in unconventional spaces. Multi-storey buildings—including underused shopping malls—can be repurposed, provided they meet strict safety standards. Large warehouses and commercial properties are also eligible for conversion, as long as they offer secure and suitable training environments.

JPJ will review each application based on the existing capacity of institutes in the area. This ensures new centres do not overload local demand. The guidelines also remove the previous minimum distance requirement between driving schools, allowing more institutes to operate in the same vicinity. Safety remains a priority for training spaces in high-rise or repurposed buildings. Institutes must guarantee secure conditions for learners, instructors, and the public. Additionally, the new rules lift geographic restrictions, meaning driving schools can now accept candidates from any location without zonal limitations.

The revised guidelines open up new possibilities for establishing driving institutes in Malaysia. By allowing conversions of unused buildings and removing distance restrictions, JPJ hopes to improve accessibility while maintaining high safety standards. Applicants can now submit proposals for land, buildings, or warehouses to be transformed into approved training centres.