Malaysia ID Card (MyKad): Complete Guide 2025 – Application, Renewal & Features
The Malaysia Identity Card, commonly known as MyKad, is a compulsory biometric smart card issued to all Malaysian citizens and permanent residents aged 12 and above. It serves as the primary identification document and offers multi-purpose digital functions.
This 2025 guide provides everything you need to know about the MyKad system, including who needs one, how to apply, what features it offers, and how to renew or replace it.
What Is MyKad?
MyKad is Malaysia’s national identity card, issued by the National Registration Department (Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara – JPN). It uses a smart chip to store biometric and personal information and is used for:
- Legal identity verification
- Voting (for eligible citizens)
- Access to government services
- Driving license integration (optional)
- Health insurance and medical records
- ATM/banking access (optional with participating banks)
Who Must Have a MyKad?
✅ All Malaysian citizens aged 12+
✅ Permanent Residents (receive MyPR variant)
✅ Must be carried at all times under Malaysian law
Types of Malaysian Identity Cards
Type | Description | Eligibility |
---|---|---|
MyKad | National ID for Malaysian citizens | Citizens (12+) |
MyKid | For children under 12 | Malaysian citizens (<12) |
MyPR | For permanent residents of Malaysia | Foreigners with PR |
MyTentera | For armed forces personnel | Military only |
Key Features of the MyKad (2025)
- Biometric chip with photo, fingerprints & data
- 64KB/80KB chip capacity
- ICAO-compliant for e-KYC use
- Can store:
- Driving license
- Health info
- ATM/Bank card functions
- Touch ‘n Go (TnG) cashless transport
- Multi-language: Malay and English
- Water- and tamper-resistant plastic card
What’s Printed on the Card?
- Full name (as in birth certificate/passport)
- NRIC number (12-digit Malaysian ID number)
- Date of birth and place of birth
- Citizenship status
- Address (in chip only)
- Card issue date
- Photo and digital signature
How to Apply for a MyKad (First Time – Age 12+)
You must apply within 30 days of your 12th birthday.
Steps:
- Visit any National Registration Department (JPN) office
- Provide:
- Birth certificate (original and copy)
- Parents’ ICs
- 1 passport-sized photo (if needed)
- Fingerprint & biometric data will be collected
- Pay the applicable fee
Application & Renewal Fees (2025)
Category | Fee (MYR) |
---|---|
First-time (12 years) | Free |
Adult renewal | RM 10–50 |
Lost/damaged card | RM 100–300* |
Senior citizens (60+) | Free |
💡 Multiple losses result in increasing fines
MyKad Renewal
- Required every 10 years (or sooner if damaged/lost)
- Can be renewed online via the MyGovernment portal or JPN kiosks
- Pick up in person at JPN offices
Lost, Stolen, or Damaged MyKad
- Report to nearest police station
- Visit JPN with:
- Police report
- Supporting documents (passport, birth cert, etc.)
- Pay the replacement fee
MyKad for Malaysians Abroad
Malaysians living overseas may:
- Renew MyKad only upon return to Malaysia
- Use passport as official ID abroad
- Can return to Malaysia for MyKad services (not available at embassies)
MyKad vs MyKid
Feature | MyKad | MyKid |
---|---|---|
Age Group | 12+ years | Under 12 years |
Photo | Yes | No |
Legal ID | Yes | Yes (for children) |
Digital Chip | Yes | Yes |
Used for Voting | Yes (if eligible) | No |
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