How to Apply for a VEP Before Your Next JB Road Trip?

What’s the Deal with the VEP System?

The VEP system is Malaysia’s way of regulating foreign vehicles entering the country. It serves a few key purposes:

Tracking Foreign Vehicles. The RFID tag allows the Malaysian authorities to track the comings and goings of foreign vehicles.

No Unpaid Traffic Fines. With the VEP, the Malaysian authorities can check if you have any outstanding ‘Saman’ (aka traffic fines) before you exit the country.

Road Charges and Tolls.The VEP-RFID tag can be synced to the Touch N’ Go (TNG) eWallet, which allow easy collection of road charges RM20 (S$6.10) for every entry into Malaysia at either Woodlands Causeway or Tuas Second Link, as well as toll fees on highways.

Do I Need to Worry About VEP?

If you’re planning to drive into Malaysia after October 1, 2024, then yes! You’ll need to make sure you get your VEP registered and the RFID tag installed on your vehicle.

Here’s the good news: it’s relatively simple to get started, but you should do it as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute stress.

How To Register

Thankfully, it just takes a few easy steps to avoid getting barred from entering Johor.

Step 1: Gather Your Information

You’ll need:

1. NRIC and passport details (Singpass)
2. Vehicle details - Vehicle’s Model, COE, chassis number (Singpass or OneMotoring)
3. Certificate of Entitlement (COE) (Singpass or OneMotoring)
4. Road tax documents (OneMotoring)
5. Motor insurance documents (Insurance provider website)

Step 2: Setup Your Touch ‘N Go e-Wallet (If you’ve done this step, skip to Step 3)

1. Download the Touch ‘N Go e-Wallet app on your Apple App Store or Google Playstore
2. Create account and add your phone number to receive the OTP
3. Enter OTP when prompted to set your 6-digit PIN and security information

Do note to choose the correct ID tyre after setting up your e-wallet. Otherwise, you may not be able syncronise your e-wallet to your VEP-RFID tag.

For Singaporeans, you should choose NRIC as the ID type in the Touch 'n Go eWallet. For foreigners, you should choose Passport as the ID type.

Step 3: Register online at the official Malaysia VEP website

Go to https://vep.jpj.gov.my/ to register for an account.

After registration, you will receive an email shortly with details to enter the Malaysian VEP portal.

Authenticate your account by email and login to the portal to start the application process. You can choose to upload your vehicle log card, or manually fill in the information (vehicle model, COE, chassis numbers).

Step 4:  Wait for Confirmation Email

Once your application has been verified and approved, you will receive a confirmation email for your VEP-RFID tag collection.

Step 5: Collection of VEP-RFID tag

Option 1: Self Collection

Location: VEP collection counter in JB (refer to your confirmation email)

Processing fees: RM10 (S$3.00)

Option 2: Home Delivery

Location: Tag delivered to address of your choice, whether Singapore or Malaysia

Processing fees: RM10 (S$3.00)

Service Fees: RM30 (S$9.13)

Postage Fees to Singapore: RM15 (S$4.56)

Note: Sales and services tax will also apply.

Do also note that there are no VEP collection counters in Singapore.

Step 6: Acknowledgement

Once you receive your RFID tag, you’ll need to login to your VEP portal and click the acknowledgement button on your vehicle number. You should also input the RFID serial number for validation.

Step 7: Activate your Touch ‘N Go e-Wallet to your VEP-RFID tag

1. Open your Touch ‘N Go e-Wallet App
2. Click on RFID icon and ‘Activate RFID Tag’
3. Enter your personal and vehicle details
4. Scan the VEP-RFID Tag or key in your tag number
5. Activation will be within 24 hours.

Step 8: Install Your RFID tag on Your Vehicle

1. Choose whether you’d like to paste it on your windscreen or left headlight.
2. Ensure that the flat surface is clean and dry.
3. Peel the RFID tag from the edges and position the RFID tag such that it is horizontal and its surrounding area is 5cm away from the metal body.
4. Once you’ve positioned your RFID, paste it firmly on the left headlight. Do not remove the tag after it is installed as it might damage it.
5. If you’re pasting it on your windscreen, make sure it’s not obstructed by the wiper blades.

What Happens If You Enter Malaysia Without a VEP?

If you’re caught driving into Malaysia without a VEP or RFID tag from October 1 onwards, you could be slapped with a hefty fine of RM2,000 (about S$574) or even face jail time. So, if you’re the kind of driver who likes to live dangerously, this is probably not the rule to test!

If your tag is lost or damaged, you’ll need to update the status on the VEP portal and get a replacement. Fortunately, replacements for faulty tags are free, but if the damage is caused by removal or tampering, expect a fee.

Does the VEP Expire?

Yes, the VEP is valid for 5 years. You’ll get an email reminder 6 months before it expires, and you’ll need to renew it within 3 months of that reminder. If you forget, you can still drive into Malaysia, but you’ll have to pay a RM150 penalty before leaving.

Wrap-Up: Don’t Get Caught Off-Guard!

Planning a trip to JB is about to get a bit more technical, but with the right preparation, it’s smooth sailing. Make sure to get your VEP sorted early to avoid any hiccups when the new rules take effect.

For those who have joined Cult of Cars, having your car JB-ready is just another step toward keeping the adventure alive. So, buckle up, get your RFID tag installed, and keep those road trips rolling!