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Malaysia's VEP Enforcement Begins July 1: What Singapore Drivers Need to Know
If you’ve ever taken a weekend drive up to Johor Bahru for groceries, a massage, or a short getaway, take note — starting 1 July 2025, Malaysia will begin strict enforcement of its Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) system.
Previously a grace period allowed foreign-registered vehicles to cross the land border without an active permit, but that’s about to change. Drivers entering Malaysia without a registered and activated VEP could now face a RM300 fine (approximately SGD $86) before being allowed to exit the country.
In this article, we break down what the VEP is, why it matters, and how Singapore drivers can prepare ahead to avoid disruption — especially with the school holidays and weekend traffic surges around the corner.
What is the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) and How Does It Work?
The Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) is an electronic permit issued by Malaysia’s Road Transport Department (JPJ) to foreign-registered vehicles entering the country. Each VEP is linked to a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag, which is placed on the windscreen of the vehicle and scanned upon entry and exit at land checkpoints.
To activate the VEP, drivers must:
- Register online via the official JPJ VEP portal.
- Schedule an appointment for tag collection and installation.
- Ensure Touch ‘n Go eWallet integration, which is required for paying the RM20 (approx. S$5.75) road charge per entry.
Without an active VEP, vehicles will not be able to exit Malaysia, and drivers may be subject to penalties.
What Happens If You Don’t Register for a VEP?
From July 1, 2025, all Singapore-registered vehicles must have an activated VEP-RFID tag to enter and exit Malaysia. If your vehicle does not have a valid VEP, you may face the following consequences:
- Denied exit from Malaysia: Vehicles without the RFID tag will not be able to leave the country.
- Fines and penalties: Non-compliance could result in monetary penalties imposed by Malaysian authorities.
- Delays at the checkpoint: Manual checks or detainment may occur, disrupting travel plans.
Malaysian officials have made it clear that enforcement will be strict, especially since the system has been in pilot testing for years. Vehicle owners are strongly advised to register immediately to avoid last-minute issues at the border.
How to Register for Your VEP in Singapore
If you haven’t registered your vehicle yet, now’s the time to do it. The registration process for the VEP can be done entirely online, and while it may seem tedious, it's a one-time setup that ensures smooth entry and exit from Malaysia in the future.
Step-by-Step Registration Guide
1. Visit the Official JPJ VEP Portal
Go to https://vep.jpj.gov.my and create an account. Make sure to use an email address that you check regularly, as updates will be sent there.
2. Submit Vehicle Details
Upload clear photos of your vehicle log card (LTA vehicle registration details), road tax disc, and insurance certificate. Ensure all documents are up-to-date and clearly legible.
3. Choose Your Collection Point
Once your application is approved, you will be asked to schedule an appointment to collect the RFID tag. Most Singaporeans opt for the Gelang Patah Selatan or Bukit Indah collection centers just across the border.
4. Tag Installation
During your appointment, the RFID tag will be installed on your windscreen by JPJ officers. The tag is linked to your VEP account and your Touch ‘n Go eWallet for toll and road charge payments.
5. Check Activation
After installation, log into your VEP account to ensure the RFID tag is marked as activated. You may also receive a confirmation email or notification.
🛑 Tip: RFID tags are non-transferable. If you change vehicles, you’ll need to repeat the process for the new car.
Common Issues and FAQs About VEP Registration
While registering for the VEP is straightforward in theory, many drivers have reported technical issues or delays during the process. Here are some frequently asked questions and problems you might encounter — along with practical tips to resolve them.
“I didn’t receive the confirmation email after registering.”
- Solution: Check your spam or junk mail folder. The email will come from the JPJ system. If it’s not there, log into your VEP account and see if your application is marked as “Pending” or “Approved.”
- Tip: Use a Gmail or Outlook address — corporate or older email providers tend to have filtering issues with JPJ’s emails.
“The system keeps rejecting my vehicle documents.”
- Solution: Make sure you’re uploading the exact documents requested — namely, your LTA vehicle log card, valid insurance certificate, and road tax disc. Files should be in PDF or JPEG format, under 3MB each.
- Tip: Avoid screenshots. Scan or take a high-resolution photo with all four corners of the document visible.
“Can I collect the RFID tag on behalf of someone else?”
- Answer: No. As of now, only the registered vehicle owner can collect and install the RFID tag. You’ll need to bring your NRIC or passport and present it at the collection point.
“What if I’m driving a rental or company car?”
- Answer: The VEP must still be registered to the vehicle. If it’s a rental or leased vehicle, contact the company to check if the VEP has already been applied for. If not, they may need to handle the registration on your behalf.
“How long does it take to complete the entire process?”
- Answer: If all your documents are in order, the approval can take 3–7 working days. However, appointment slots for RFID collection may be limited during peak seasons — plan ahead.
⚠️ Warning: Last-minute registration may not be processed in time before your travel date. If your VEP is not activated, you may be denied entry into Malaysia altogether.
Touch ’n Go Integration: What You Need to Know
Beyond registering for the VEP and installing the RFID tag, Singapore drivers must also ensure their Touch ’n Go eWallet is set up and properly linked. This is how Malaysia charges the RM20 (approx. SGD $5.75) road fee every time a foreign vehicle enters the country.
Step 1: Download the Touch ’n Go eWallet App
Available on both App Store and Google Play, the Touch ’n Go eWallet app is required for cashless toll and road charge payments. Be sure to download the official app (not the older “TNG Card” app).
Step 2: Register and Verify
Set up your eWallet using your mobile number and email. You’ll need to complete identity verification (eKYC) with a photo of your NRIC or passport and a selfie for authentication.
Step 3: Link to VEP Account
Once your RFID tag is installed and activated, you can link your VEP to your Touch ’n Go eWallet via the app or website. This ensures the road charge is deducted automatically each time you enter Malaysia.
Step 4: Top Up Your eWallet
Make sure you have sufficient balance (at least RM20) before entering Malaysia. The eWallet supports top-ups via:
- Credit/debit cards
- Online banking (FPX)
- Selected retail merchants in Malaysia
💡 Note: As of now, NETS and PayNow are not supported — you’ll need to use an international card or Malaysian bank account.
Step 5: Monitor Deductions
After each trip, the app will show your toll and road charge deductions. If you don’t see a deduction after entry, ensure your RFID tag is working and linked correctly.
🔒 Important: Do not rely on the physical Touch ’n Go card alone. The RFID tag must be linked to your eWallet — otherwise, your VEP won’t be recognised at automated gantries.
Plan Ahead: Avoiding Last-Minute Travel Disruptions
With the VEP enforcement starting on 1 July 2025, the worst thing you can do is wait until the last minute. While the online application may only take a few days, appointments for RFID collection can fill up quickly — especially around long weekends, school holidays, and public holidays like National Day or Hari Raya.
✅ Register Early
If you’ve never applied for the VEP before, start the process at least 2–3 weeks before your intended travel date. This gives you buffer time for document approval and scheduling a collection slot.
✅ Avoid Peak Periods
Friday evenings and Saturday mornings are notorious for long border queues. Adding an unregistered vehicle to that mix could lead to detention, fines, or delays of several hours at Malaysian checkpoints.
✅ Print a Copy of Your Confirmation
While the RFID system is digital, it’s a good idea to keep a printout or screenshot of your VEP approval and RFID activation confirmation. This can be useful in case of system errors or disputes at the checkpoint.
✅ Make Sure Your eWallet Is Topped Up
Check your Touch ’n Go eWallet balance before each trip. Without enough funds, your entry might be blocked even if your VEP is active.
Drive Into Malaysia Without VEP Hassles
The countdown to 1 July 2025 has begun, and Malaysia’s VEP enforcement is no longer just a policy on paper — it’s happening. If you’re planning to drive across the border anytime soon, whether for a short getaway or a business trip, now is the time to act.
At BCC Automotive, we’re more than just a workshop — we’re your trusted pit stop before any long drive. From comprehensive pre-trip inspections to reliable servicing for continental and Asian vehicles, our team ensures your car is in top condition before hitting the road.
🛠️ Book your next servicing with us today and travel with peace of mind.
Stay informed. Stay prepared. And most importantly — drive safe.