Background
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport administers authorization for vehicle access to Cambodia’s expressway network through administrative permits issued at designated public service centers.
Vehicles with engine displacement of 500cc or greater or with rated power of 27 kilowatts or more are subject to a permit requirement to travel on expressways under the MPWT procedure.
The permit process documents vehicle registration and owner identity to confirm eligibility for expressway travel, and MPWT publishes the required supporting documents and official service locations for applicants.
Scope of Application
The procedure applies to both Cambodian and foreign drivers seeking permission to use the expressway when their vehicle meets the stated engine-displacement or power thresholds. Applicants include private vehicle owners and operators who must present identification and vehicle documentation at the service points identified by MPWT.
Key Provisions or Decisions
Required documents for Cambodian citizens are: (1) the vehicle registration document (vehicle identification paper) and (2) the owner’s national identity card. Required documents for foreign applicants are: (1) the vehicle registration document, (2) a valid passport and visa, and (3) a residence confirmation letter issued by the commune/ Sangkat chief. If an applicant’s registered address differs from their current residence, a family book or residence book must be attached as additional proof.
MPWT states that the expressway permit application is provided free of charge. Designated application locations include the MPWT Public Service Center at the ministry headquarters (Road No. 598, Phnom Penh), the public service center at AEON Mall Mean Chey (1st floor), and the public service center at Olympia Mall (4th floor). MPWT provides a hotline for inquiries at 1275.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
Transport operators and private vehicle owners should maintain up-to-date vehicle registration and owner identity documents to meet permit requirements for higher-capacity vehicles. Service availability at multiple public centers and malls implies administrative access points for timely processing, while the free application reduces direct administrative cost to applicants.
Official Source
Announcement from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT): MPWT Facebook post, 5 June 2026.
