[UPDATED] E-hailing vehicles, taxis age limit extended to 15 years, from 10: Loke

KUALA LUMPUR – The age limit for taxi and e-hailing vehicles has been increased to 15 years, from 10 years previously, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

In a press conference today, Loke said this applies to such vehicles in the peninsula, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan, effective January 1 this year.

“With this, the government has allowed vehicles that had reached the previous 10-year limit but below 15 years, to continue to operate.”

Loke, however, said drivers are still required to abide by cleanliness and safety standards via routine or annual vehicle check-ups.

To this effect, the vehicle age limit for the application of relevant licences is capped at 14 years, a year before the vehicle reaches the maximum 15 years limit.

The policy, Loke said, is to alleviate the burden of drivers who have been severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns.

“If the 10-year limit is maintained, many drivers would have to bear huge costs to purchase new vehicles via loans despite not earning a stable income.”

In addition to this policy, Loke also announced more relaxed terms to apply for vocational driving licences.

This includes allowing for online theory classes and doing away with theory exams. – The Vibes, April 10, 2023