Driving In Brunei
Buying a Car
Some people choose to buy a car from the person they’re taking over from. If you choose this route, and are buying it without seeing, it’s generally a good idea to ask a second person to confirm that the car is in good working order.
Second hand cars are sold on Facebook Marketplace and Buy and Sell Whatsapp groups. You can purchase cars locally but many second hand cars have not been well maintained by the previous owners. One of the best options is to buy a car from an expat as they are normally maintained annually. Teachers or members of the UK Garrison leave Brunei regularly and often advertise on social media or by word of mouth.
Local second hand car lots are easy to buy from, but it is advisable to take recommendations on which garage to trust. You can also choose to buy new, trade in or rent a car for an extended period.
It is advisable not to buy a small car as the rain is very often torrential and the roads are not maintained. The rain and the potholes can cause issues with small cars or those with low clearance. It is often cheaper to buy an Asian branded car as the parts are readily available and the mechanics are experienced in dealing with these cars regularly.
Driving Licence
On arrival in country you are permitted to drive for three months using your UK driving licence. After that period, you must obtain a Brunei driving licence. You will receive your licence without a test, on presentation of a valid UK licence, international driving permit or service driving permit.
Depending on the country of issue, individuals without a UK driving licence may be required to take a local test. Fees payable may be reclaimed.
The legal age to drive in Brunei is 18 years old.
Car Insurance
Fully comprehensive car insurance is recommended for you and other family members. Remember to bring your “no claims” certificates from UK insurers. Only one can be used per car. It is also advised to check with your current insurance provider regarding your “No Claims” expiry timeline, many UK insurers will only allow a two year gap in insurance.
Registering and Taxing a Car
The requirement for testing is carried out in line with car tax and also at the time of transfer of ownership. It is a legal, cursory check carried out at government facilites and the cost ranges from $6 to $11.
There are a number of forms required to transfer ownership of a car in Brunei and the system can be confusing the first time around. You can also find a local independent agent who will have the paperwork, inspections and car insurance completed for you for a small handling fee.
A Brunei driving licence is required before transfer of ownership can commence.
Servicing:
There are plenty of places to get your car serviced and it can be hard to choose which one to go to. You will find that labour is generally cheap but parts for all makes of cars can be expensive from main dealers.
There are many alternative car part dealers mainly situated in the Gadong area. If you have an Asian car such as a Toyota, Kia, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru or Mitsubishi, the parts should be easier to obtain.
AMW Auto Parts or Sin Hing Auto supply are recommended as good dealers to try - they have always provided after the main dealer failed to obtain the parts.
The Muara contingent swear by Ong Trading for servicing and any emergencies they have.
Tyres:
There are lots of places available locally to buy tyres and get tyres repaired. Recommended options include Tyre Mart & S&L trading in Lambak. They also have a mechanical franchise and the mechanics are knowledgeable and will tackle any job required. They are reasonably priced and labour charges are roughly a fifth of the average UK equivalent.
Air Conditioning:
Check out ML Cool Motors who are reliable and cost effective. They provide a discount for Loan Service. Also recommended is Jensead Auto AC.
Driving Conditions
As with the UK, Brunei drives on the left-hand side of the road. In Brunei, although international conventions are followed, some road signs are in Malay script so foreign drivers who are not familiar with Malay must know the signs before driving.
Although driving systems appear similar some differences do exist between Brunei and UK. You will find that undertaking is common, and at roundabouts, drivers will go all the way around in the outide lane which can catch you out if you’re not prepared. Please take extra care until you become fully comfortable with the driving approach in Brunei.
Brunei does not have trains or a metro, very few taxis and a limited bus network. The use of cars is the most common form of transportation. There are local buses with a bus stop outside Berakas Kem and services are generally reliable.
Routine Police Checks
While alcohol is not freely available in Brunei, the Police will still check non-Muslims for alcohol consumption following an accident. Any alcohol in the blood of a driver is deemed to be against the law and carries stiff penalties.
NEVER BE TEMPTED TO DRINK AND DRIVE.
Police will conduct routine vehicle stops to check driving licences and registration documents (and if suspicious, to search for contraband drugs and alcohol).
While driving, drivers must always have their Identification Card (IC) and Driving Licence; UK Driving Licence and Passport are sufficient whilst waiting for a local licence. It is also recommended that copies of vehicle registration documents and insurance policy details are available electronically. Discreetly storing these documents (ideally copies), in the car is also an option.