Do You Need to Renew Roadtax If Your Car Is Not Being Used?

(According to Malaysian Road Laws)

Short Answer:

You are not required to renew your roadtax if the vehicle is not in use and is not on public roads.

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Not Using the Vehicle = No Need for Roadtax?

Yes, you are allowed not to renew your roadtax if:

• The car is not being used at all
• It is kept on private property (e.g. in a garage)
• It is not driven or parked on any public road
  

Malaysian law does not require roadtax for vehicles not used on public roads.

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Important Things to Note

If Roadtax Has Expired for Over 1 Year:

• The vehicle must undergo PUSPAKOM inspection before roadtax can be renewed.
• Additional documents may be required by JPJ.
  

If Caught on the Road Without Roadtax:

• If you drive a car with expired roadtax on public roads, you may:
  
  • Be fined up to RM3,000
  • Have your vehicle seized
    

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What About Insurance?

• While not required for an unused vehicle, insurance is required to renew your roadtax.
• If you don’t renew your insurance, you cannot renew roadtax.
• Without insurance, you are not protected if your car is stolen, damaged in a flood, catches fire, or is destroyed — even if unused.
  

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No SORN System in Malaysia

• In the UK, there is a “SORN” (Statutory Off Road Notification) system to officially declare a vehicle is not being used.
• Malaysia does not have such a system.
• Therefore, your vehicle will still be marked as expired in the JPJ system even if unused.

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Summary Table:

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