Background
Driver licensing in Cambodia is administered under the transport regulatory framework overseen by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. A driving licence functions as an official authorization to operate specified vehicle categories, and renewal procedures are tied to identity verification, fitness certification, and fee-based public service delivery.
Cambodia’s licence administration system distinguishes between vehicle classes and applies standardized documentary requirements when a licence is renewed or replaced. The ministry cited Prakas No. 047 dated 17 January 2017 on the issuance of driving licences and point cards as the governing source for the requirements and fees described in the notice.
The clarification also addresses expiry treatment within the licence management system. Under the rule described by MPWT, a motor vehicle driving licence that has expired for no more than 30 days is not subject to a penalty, which provides a defined grace period for administrative renewal.
Scope of Application
The notice applies to renewal of expired motor vehicle driving licences in Cambodia. It specifically covers the documentary requirements for licence renewal, the applicable public service fees by licence category, and the treatment of licences that have expired for up to 30 days.
The fee schedule listed by the ministry covers Category A licences and Categories B, C, D, and E licences. Service access is available through MPWT public service centers, selected commercial service locations, border checkpoints, and provincial and municipal departments of public works and transport.
Key Provisions or Decisions
According to MPWT, no penalty applies where a motor vehicle driving licence has expired for not more than 30 days.
The required documents for renewal are listed as:
- the original driving licence to be replaced;
- a Cambodian national identity card copy certified by a competent authority, or a copied Cambodian national identity card with the holder providing a thumbprint in person before the service officer and presenting the original identity card for verification, or an original personal identity certification letter issued by the General Department of Identification, or a data accuracy certification for personal identity issued by the same authority;
- a physical fitness certificate, available at the service location; and
- three 4×6 photographs with a white background.
The service fees stated by MPWT are 20,000 riels for Category A licences and 30,000 riels for Categories B, C, D, and E licences.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The clarification is relevant for transport operators, logistics businesses, ride service providers, and employers whose staff must maintain valid driving credentials. Clear renewal procedures reduce uncertainty around administrative compliance for licensed drivers and fleet personnel.
The 30-day no-penalty window is a procedural rule rather than a waiver of the renewal requirement. Businesses that depend on licensed drivers still need to monitor licence validity, maintain supporting identity records, and ensure that drivers complete renewal through authorized service channels.
By identifying service points across Phnom Penh, selected malls, provincial departments, and border entry-exit locations, the ministry also indicates how licence administration is integrated into Cambodia’s wider public service delivery network.
Official Source
Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT), public notice published on 22 April 2026.
Referenced legal basis in the notice: Prakas No. 047 dated 17 January 2017 on the issuance of driving licences and point cards.
