The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has introduced a new format for driver’s licenses (SIM) that can now be used in several Southeast Asian countries. With a more modern and informative design, the updated SIM makes it easier for users to drive abroad.
In July, the Traffic Corps (Korlantas) of the Indonesian National Police announced plans to update the SIM format to align with international standards, particularly in Southeast Asia. The changes include the addition of vehicle images according to the type of license, making it more informative, though the overall appearance remains largely unchanged.
Vehicle Images on the New SIM: Not Just Decoration, but Functional!
The new SIM will feature images of vehicles corresponding to the type of license. For example, SIM C, which is for motorcycle drivers, now includes an image of a motorcycle with the description "Motorcycles <= 250 cc." Meanwhile, SIM A, for car drivers, displays an image of a car labeled "Personal Passenger Car/Personal Goods."
The new format also includes the license holder’s data in English, such as name, place and date of birth, blood type, occupation, and address, making it easier for identification by authorities abroad.
Additionally, the SIM number will now match the National Identification Number (NIK) found on the Identity Card (KTP). As a result, holders of both SIM A and SIM C will have the same number as their NIK.
Effective Starting Next Year
The new format SIM will be fully implemented in Indonesia and Southeast Asian countries starting in July next year. Indonesian SIMs are recognized in several Southeast Asian countries under a regional agreement called the "Agreement on the Recognition of Domestic Driving Licenses Issued," which was signed on September 7, 1985, in Kuala Lumpur.
The license is recognized in various ASEAN countries, including Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Singapore. However, in Singapore, an Indonesian SIM is only valid for 12 months after arrival; beyond this period, drivers are required to obtain a Singaporean license.
In Malaysia, an Indonesian SIM is only valid if the driver also holds an active International Driving Permit. Alternatively, drivers can apply for a Malaysian driving license.
