Loke: Decision on full B licence after proper review

SEREMBAN: The special transition programme which allows Malaysian Driving Licence (LMM) class B1 and B2 holders to upgrade to a full B licence is being introduced after careful consideration of various factors, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

He said the programme is available to B1 and B2 licence holders with over 10 years of experience who wish to upgrade to a full B licence for riding high-powered motorcycles, provided they meet specific conditions.

"The applicant must be clear of any blacklist, outstanding summonses, transaction restrictions, serious criminal convictions or pending issues under the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333).

"Some people request an automatic upgrade but it is not feasible. They are required to attend a two-hour course at a driving institute to ensure they are competent for the Full B licence," he told reporters when met at the SM Sains Tuanku Aishah Rohani Academic Excellence Award ceremony yesterday.

It was also attended by Tunku Besar of Seri Menanti Tunku Ali Redhauddin Tuanku Muhriz.

Loke said the ministry took into account experience rather than age because it is a practical and timely decision.

"If age were the sole factor, an applicant with no experience or a history of holding a B2 licence might not be suitable for the upgrade. Therefore, we have opted for a more pragmatic approach, focusing on the duration of experience with the licence,” he explained, Bernama reported.

It was reported that holders of LMM class B1 and B2 licences with at least 10 years of experience will be eligible to participate in a special transition programme to obtain a full B licence, beginning Oct 1.

Loke clarified that applicants must meet certain conditions, including completing and passing the transition programme and adapting to a motorcycle with a capacity of 500cc and above.

This practical training at a driving institute will cost RM160.

He added that the programme includes practical riding instruction, safe riding information and guidance on operating high-powered motorcycles.