JPJ Sabah: Road Tax & Driving Licence Guide
What does JPJ do in Sabah?
JPJ, the Road Transport Department, handles road tax, driving licences, vehicle registration and the learner theory test in Sabah. Its state HQ is on Jalan Kemajuan in Karamunsing, with services also available at UTC Kota Kinabalu.
JPJ in Sabah at a glance
The Road Transport Department, known as JPJ (Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan), manages everything to do with vehicles and driving in Sabah — road tax, driving licences, vehicle registration, theory tests and disabled parking permits.
The Sabah headquarters is on Jalan Kemajuan, Karamunsing, Kota Kinabalu, on 088-212 212. Many routine tasks can now be done online or at agents, but JPJ counters and the UTC KK office remain the place for anything that needs in-person handling.
Road tax and many licence renewals can be done online via MyEG or at Pos Malaysia, leaving JPJ counters for registrations and tasks that need an officer.
Road tax renewal
Renewing road tax (cukai jalan) is the service most drivers use. You need valid motor insurance first, after which road tax can be renewed online, at Pos Malaysia, through MyEG, or at a JPJ counter. The road tax is now largely digital, though a printed slip is still useful to keep in the vehicle.
Renew before the expiry date to avoid driving with lapsed road tax, which is an offence. Set a reminder, as insurance and road tax usually fall due together each year.
Driving licences
JPJ issues and renews driving licences, from the learner (L) and probationary (P) licences to the full Competent Driving Licence (CDL). New drivers begin with a computer-based theory test, then complete practical training through registered institutes before earning a P licence.
Licence renewals are straightforward and can often be done at JPJ counters, UTC KK or Pos Malaysia. Bring your MyKad and existing licence. Foreigners and new residents should check the rules for converting or recognising an overseas licence.
Vehicle registration and SB plates
JPJ handles vehicle registration and the issue of number plates. Sabah plates start with the letter S, and the second letter marks the region — SB, SD, SK and ST among them — so a plate can hint at where a vehicle was first registered.
Registration covers new vehicles, ownership transfers and changes of particulars. For a transfer, both buyer and seller usually need to be involved, and the vehicle may require a Puspakom inspection beforehand.
Other JPJ services
Beyond the core tasks, JPJ manages vehicle inspection referrals to Puspakom, the learner theory test, and the OKU sticker and disabled parking permit for eligible drivers. It also enforces road transport rules and processes summonses.
Fees, online channels and procedures change over time. This page is general information, not official advice. Confirm the latest details on jpj.gov.my or at a JPJ counter before acting.
Office and contact details
The Sabah JPJ headquarters is on Jalan Kemajuan, Karamunsing, Kota Kinabalu, reachable on 088-212 212. The official website, jpj.gov.my, sets out services, fees and the online options that can save a counter visit.
For in-person tasks outside office hours, the JPJ counter at UTC KK, Wisma Sabah, opens 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM, seven days a week. District offices serve drivers in towns beyond the capital.