Tips on How to Drive to Johor Bahru (JB) from Singapore

One of the best things about living in Singapore is being able to just… drive to another country. No flights, no boarding gates – just hop in the car, clear customs, and ta-da, you’re in Malaysia. If you’ve been meaning to try it for yourself, here’s something I’ve put together based on my own drives in. This guide on how to drive to Johor Bahru (JB) from Singapore is packed with things I wish I knew earlier, plus a few hard-earned hacks to make the journey smoother.

The first time I drove into JB, I was a bundle of nerves. I was worried I’d take the wrong lane at the checkpoint, or accidentally drive on the wrong side of the road. But after a couple of trial-and-error weekends, I now have a little mental checklist that I swear by. Whether you’re a P-plate driver or just never got around to doing the JB trip yourself, here’s a guide I compiled based on my experience. 

Also read: How to Go to Johor Bahru (JB) from Singapore for the Newbies

Timing is everything

My rule of thumb? Don’t be ambitious on weekends unless you’re a masochist. The worst jams I’ve ever faced always involve crossing on a Friday evening or Saturday morning. Once, it took me nearly 4 hours just to get past Woodlands. Before I head out, I always check Checkpoint.sg – it gives you live updates and camera views of both checkpoints. 

Read our guide on the best and worst times to visit JB for a more detailed breakdown.

Petrol rules and Checkpoint Checks

Here’s the drill: windows down, passports out. One officer checks your face against the passport (no covers, please). 

Now, about petrol. Yes, it is way cheaper in JB, but that doesn’t mean you can roll in with your fuel light blinking. Before you even hit the checkpoint, make sure your tank is at least ¾ full. It’s a rule, and they do check. Sometimes an officer will ask you to pop the boot and check your fuel gauge, and if you’re caught skimping, you could kena fine up to S$500.

Also, don’t even think about pumping RON95. That’s Malaysia’s subsidised fuel, and it’s strictly off-limits to foreign vehicles. You’ll need to go for RON97 or RON100. And heads up that petrol stations near the border are often watched, so don’t try to be sneaky with a last-minute ‘top-up.’

💡 Tip: Just fill your tank properly in Singapore before you go. Peace of mind, fewer stares, and no drama

Do I Really Need This VEP Thing?

Yes, you do. Every foreign-registered car needs a Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) to enter Malaysia. I got mine via the official VEP portal, paid around RM10 (plus some postage fees), and waited a couple of weeks for the RFID tag to arrive. 

Until your tag is ready, you can still enter, but just bring along the confirmation slip as proof.

Once it’s in your hands, stick the RFID tag on your windscreen and link it to the Touch ‘n Go eWallet app. You’ll need that to pay tolls, which includes the RM20 fee to enter Johor.

Touch ‘n Go: Card or App?

You technically don’t need the physical Touch ‘n Go card, but I like having it as a backup. It works at mall carparks, toll booths, and some shops, so it’s very handy if your RFID refuses to scan or the app goes wonky (which, let’s be real, sometimes happens).

You can buy the card at selected petrol stations or 7-Eleven outlets in Singapore, but they run out fast (I had to check three different places before I found one).

💡Tip: If you manage to find the EZ-Link x Touch ‘n Go Motoring Card, get it. You can store both SGD and RM on one card. I haven’t seen it in stock for a while, but when it’s available, it’s a godsend. Alternatively, you can switch between these currencies on the Touch ‘n Go ewallet app too, or the YouTrip ewallet app.

Road Rules in JB: Chill But Not Too Chill

Driving in Malaysia is similar to Singapore, just… faster. People overtake more aggressively, and Waze is basically your best friend. It alerts you to speed traps, jams, and sketchy roadblocks. If you’re a bit anxious, stay in the left lane and don’t feel pressured to go full Fast & Furious. 

Should You Bother With Travel Insurance?

Totally optional, but I started getting cheap weekly plans (like from Klook or Bubblegum Insurance) when I realised how often I was crossing. For like ~S$5 a day, it covers car accidents, theft, and medical. I think it’s worth it just in case something happens while you’re on the road (touchwood!). 

Safety Tips (a.k.a. What My Kiasu Brain Always Does)

Is JB safe to drive in? Short answer is yes. But I still follow a few kiasu rules:

1. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight (take your CashCard out too!)
2. If I need to leave something in the car, I do it before I leave home – not after I park
3. I try to park at mall basements or secure spots (avoid back alleys unless you’re filming a crime drama)
4. You don’t need to be paranoid, just sensible.

💡Tip: Stick to familiar roads for your first few trips. Places like KSL, Mid Valley Southkey, or Mount Austin are good beginner-friendly zones, and it’ll help you build confidence. 

Final Thoughts

Also read: Johor Bahru (JB) Culture Tour: 5 Must-Visit Spots for Singaporeans

The first time might be nerve-wracking, but once you get the hang of it, driving to JB becomes second nature. Just plan your timing, get your documents in order, and don’t panic if you miss an exit (it happens to the best of us). Driving gives you the freedom to explore JB at your own pace, which is really nice because it turns a basic day trip into a mini adventure, complete with wrong turns and surprisingly good roadside eats. Happy road tripping, and may your queue time be short!