International Driving License in Brunei Darussalam

An International Driving Permit (IDP) or commonly known as International Driving Licence, is a legal translation of your local driver’s license. When you plan on driving through Brunei Darussalam, you need to have this document. It is a legal document that translates your local driver’s license to 12 UN-recognized languages. It is very important to secure an IDP before driving to Brunei as Bruneian authorities will look for it during road checkpoints. 

Is a Local Driver’s License Valid in Brunei?

Driving in Brunei using a foreign driver’s license is permitted as long as you support it with an International Driver’s Permit. It can be a potential issue if you don't have an IDP with you. Furthermore, you are allowed to drive in Brunei using your local driver’s license and your IDP for only three months. If you plan on staying and driving in Brunei for more than the given period, you are advised to secure a Brunei driving license. Failure to obey the said condition will put you at risk of having to pay a fine.

Does an IDP Replace a Local Driver’s License ?

Your International Driver’s Permit in Brunei does not replace your local driver’s license. Your IDP is a supporting document for your local driver’s license. You have to always bring your IDP and your local driver’s license, as driving through Brunei Darussalam without either of the mentioned documents is illegal. Aside from using your IDP in driving, you will also need it when you are to rent a car in Brunei.

Who Can Apply For an IDP?

Anyone can apply for an international driver's permit, without taking exam or driving test. Simple click "start my application" button on our site and fill the application form. You also have to upload valid copy of your local driver’s license and two passport size pictures.

It will take 2 hours for our team to process your application after you submit it. If your application is approved, your IDP will be shipped to you immediately. It will take 7-15 days for you to receive your IDP if you are US-based and up to 30 days internationally.

You can also apply for international driving license by visiting the Land Transport Department (JPD), Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications.

Can I Use My Digital Copy if I Lost my IDP?

You cannot use the digital copy of your IDP when driving in Brunei. Road authorities only acknowledge the physical copy of an IDP. That is why, when you lose it, it is very important to request a replacement immediately. 

When I Visit Another Foreign Country After Brunei, Is My IDP Still Valid?

If you obtained your International Driver’s Permit to drive in Brunei through the International Driver’s Association, then the answer is yes. As an IDP issued by them is valid in over 150 countries, you can still use it to the other foreign countries as long as it is not expired. Also, take note that your local driver’s license must also still be valid when you use your IDP.

Is Malaysian Driving License Valid in Brunei?

If you are from Malaysia, then you can use drive with your Malaysian driving license. As long as you supplement it with an International Driver’s Permit, then you are good to go.

Can I Drive in Brunei Using a UK Driving License?

If you are coming from United Kingdom, you can use your local license. Just first secure an IDP as Bruneian Road authorities will look for it together with your local driving license. Failure to present these documents can be considered illegal driving.

How to Get a Driving License in Brunei?

When you plan to stay for more than three months, you need to secure a Brunei driving license. There are two types of driving licenses that you can apply for: the Provisional Driving License and the Full Driving License.

Anyone who is at least 21 years old can apply for driving licence classes such as 2B, 2A, 2, 4, 5, 6A, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12.

You can apply for Brunei driving license at the Land Transport Department (JPD) and LTD's branches. Inform more about it through online services like GOV.BN portal and TransportBN app. Creating free online account at e-Darussalam makes this procedure quicker and easier.

Most Important Driving Rules

If you've ever considered visiting and exploring the hidden beauty of Brunei by driving through the country, you should familiarize yourself with the Brunei driving rules. There may be road traffic rules that are new to you. That's why it's crucial to know and understand each one of them to avoid any issues with the Bruneian authorities.

Another important aspect of Brunei driving rules is the requirement for an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) in Brunei. This is one of the legal documents that road traffic authorities will require you to have, in addition to your local vehicle licence, vehicle registration documents, and passport.

Don’t forget to carry required documents

Always carry your identification cards with you (International Driving Permit, local driver’s license, passport, vehicle registration certificate). You might be questioned by road authorities, and for sure, they will ask for the documents.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs

Even if Brunei has banned the sale of alcohol in the country, if you are a non-Muslim, you can still buy and drink alcohol at certain stores. But, you are not allowed to drive after drinking. It can lead to severe accidents on the road. So better avoid driving after you have drunk alcohol.

Road’s Speed Limit

There are road signs that will tell you the speed limit on a particular road. Road speed limits are imposed by Bruneian road authorities to guide you. You have to respect and obey every road’s speed limit. Not following the speed limit is also one of the main causes of road accidents in Brunei. And we all know that the last event you want to happen on your trip is to get involved in an accident.

Roads Signs

Together with the mandated speed limit, road signs are your guide while driving. It gives you information about the dos and don’ts along the road. So you better watch out for it while driving in Brunei and obey it as they are put there for your own good. Observing road signs can also prevent road accidents, so make sure to take note of them while driving.

Do Not Use Your Phone While Driving

You have to make sure that your attention is solely on the road while driving to avoid road accidents. That is why you should not use your phone when driving. It can divert your attention away from the road. If it is an emergency, and you need to use your phone, pull over to the side of the road, and don’t forget to use signal lights. When you are on the side of the road, that is the right time to use your phone.

Do Not Run a Red Light

Always stop the vehicle when in red light. Running a red light can danger not just you but also the other drivers on the road. It is illegal and very dangerous. It is one of the main causes of severe road accidents.

Always wear your seatbelt

Do not forget to wear your seatbelt before and when driving in Brunei. Bruneian road authorities are strict when it comes to their policies. Also, wearing a seatbelt will lessen the impact and injury in road accidents. Wearing a seat belt is one of the most important road traffic rules that you must strictly observe in Brunei.

Top Destinations in Brunei

With its great architectural structure and vibrant natural sceneries, Brunei has a lot to offer. Many tourists would think otherwise, but once you step on Brunei, you will be convinced that this country has to be one of the must-visits for travelers. Aside from that, this couontry also serves great food that is a mix of different cuisines.

Kampong Ayer

Considered to be the largest floating village in the world, Kampong Ayer is located in Brunei’s capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan. It is also known as the Venice of the East. For over 1,300 years, villagers have lived in the astonishing floating water village. There are more than 30,000 inhabitants in the village that makes the population of the city 10% of the entirety of Brunei’s.

The visitor center of Kampong Ayer is open throughout the year except on public holidays. They open from 9 AM until 5 PM. Fridays have a little bit of difference in the opening schedule as it closes at 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. It is best to visit Kampong Ayer from January up to May as it is considered a good season in the country.

Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is known to be one of the two mosques that are very famous in Brunei. Omar Ali Saifuddien III, the 28th Sultan of Brunei, initiated the construction of this mosque. Thus, it was named after him. This mosque is surrounded by an artificial lagoon that reflects the image of the mosque. You will be immersed in the beauty and rich history and culture that you can see inside the mosque.

The best time to visit the mosque is in the morning before 11:30 AM. Though it is open from morning until the evening, the public is not allowed to enter the mosque during prayer hours that usually occurs five times a day. The mosque is also closed on Thursdays and Fridays.

Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

Another famous mosque that you can find in Brunei is the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque. In 1992, to honor the current Sultan’s reign for 25 years, this mosque was built. This mosque is unique as it has a personal escalator for the sultan in his private entrance to the mosque. The 29 golden domes found in the mosque represent the Sultan as he is the 29th from his dynasty to reign. Its background and history are enough for you to visit the mosque.

You can either admire the mosque’s beauty inside or outside it. When you get inside, you have to take off your shoes. The mosque is open from 8 AM – 12 noon and 2 – 3 PM. It is closed on Thursdays, Fridays and special holidays. You cannot take photographs or videos inside the mosque, but it is allowed outside.

Istana Nurul Iman

The Istana Nurul Iman is a palace with almost 1,800 rooms making it the world’s largest house. It is the official residence of Brunei’s Sultan. The palace is located a few kilometers drive from Brunei’s capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan. Visiting the palace during Hari Raya or Eid Fitr will get you a chance to shake hands with the royal family of Brunei.

Tourists are not allowed to get inside the palace unless it is Hari Raya. You can get inside the palace during the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th day of Hari Raya. Free food, drinks, and cakes are treats you can find inside the palace. Another aspect that you can enjoy in the palace is its majestic architectural structure.

Royal Regalia Museum

The Royal Regalia Museum will let you see and experience the luxurious life of the Sultan. This museum is located in Bandar Seri Begawan. You also get to see through the past as the displays in the museum go way back to 29 generations of the current Sultan of Brunei. Against chariot, jewels and golds are just some of the things you can see inside the museum.

The entrance fee to the museum is free of charge. It is usually open from 9 AM to 5 PM during Sundays to Thursdays and Saturdays, while during Fridays, it is open from 9 AM to 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 5 PM. You can visit any season you want as not a lot of people visit the museum. Experience different photographs and holograms that are presenting the life of the Sultan.

Jerudong Park Playground

If you are a fan of outdoor activities and adventures, you should visit the Jerudong Park Playground. This playground was once considered the largest themed park in the world. Different types of themed park rides you can experience are available in this playground. Another fact that made it historic is that Michael Jackson once performed there for the Sultan’s birthday.

You can enter the themed park by paying an admission fee of BND1 and enjoy all the rides for only BND5. It is usually closed from Monday to Wednesday, and opening hours depend on the days of the week. On Saturday and Sunday, it is open from 10 AM to 11:30 PM. On Thursday, opening hours are from 4 PM to 11 PM, and on Fridays, from 3 PM to 11:30 PM.

Tasek Lama Recreational Park

If you opted for relaxation in a place of fresh air and natural beauty, then Tasek Lama Recreational Park is for you. Locals sometimes dubbed this park as the “Waterfall Park” as you can find a natural waterfall and a lake in the park. You can also go hiking and fishing in the park. A picnic with your family, friends, or travel mates is perfect in this park.

It is best to visit the park early in the morning or late afternoon as the temperature will completely soothe your mind. Aside from the atmosphere it radiates, crowds are usually low during early mornings and late afternoons. The entrance fee is completely free, and the park is open from 6 AM to 6 PM all year round.