Philippines vs Malaysia 2026: Right vs Left, 100 vs 110 km/h

Philippines vs Malaysia shares the 0.05% alcohol limit and a 3-month visitor period, and changes the side of the road: the Philippines drives on the right, Malaysia on the left. Motorways run at 100 km/h in the Philippines and expressways at 110 km/h in Malaysia. Both only recommend an international driving permit.

What stays the same and what flips

The alcohol limit stays at 0.05% on both sides, so the margin does not move. The side of the road does, and Philippine drivers arriving in Malaysia must relearn junctions and roundabouts. Both countries recommend a permit. The Philippines lists a car-driving age of 16 and Malaysia 17. No fixed fine amounts are listed for either country, so confirm at the hire desk before you rely on any figure.

Speed limits: 30 km/h town streets in the Philippines, signposted in Malaysia

The Philippines lists 30 km/h in town, 80 km/h on rural roads and 100 km/h on motorways. Malaysia allows 110 km/h on expressways and 90 km/h on rural roads, while town limits are set locally and signposted, so read the sign. Malaysia generally allows the higher speeds on its expressway network.

Permit: recommended in both, 3 months in both

Both countries recommend a permit and give visitors 3 months; the Philippines treats a foreign licence as valid for 90 days. In Malaysia, UK drivers need both a 1949 permit and their licence (GOV.UK), and Canadian licences are accepted for 3 months (Global Affairs Canada).

Tread and kit lists

Neither country has a winter-tyre rule; the minimum tread is 1.6 mm on both sides. In the Philippines the triangle, extinguisher and first-aid kit are all compulsory. Malaysia requires the triangle and recommends the extinguisher and first-aid kit. Reflective vests and spare bulbs are not required in either.

Emergency numbers

The Philippines answers general, ambulance and fire calls on 911 and takes police calls on 117. Malaysia uses 999 for general, police and ambulance calls and 994 for fire, so the numbers on your phone need changing at the border.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the alcohol limit different between the Philippines and Malaysia?

No. Both allow 0.05%.

Which side of the road does Malaysia use?

The left; the Philippines drives on the right.

How long can a visitor drive on a foreign licence in each?

3 months in both.

What is the Malaysian fire number?

994; the Philippines uses 911.

Which country has the higher motorway limit?

Malaysia, at 110 km/h on expressways against 100 km/h in the Philippines.