Home > Destinations >Malaysia > Kedah > Kuah

Driving is on the left side of the road.

All Langkawi Airport rental cars are automatic transmission.

Your local drivers' licence is required.

An International Drivers' Permit (or IDP) may be required, especially if your local drivers' licence is in a language other than the local language (you may inquire when you pick up your car).

Kuah Driving Stress Level: 4/10

Remember to drive safely and slowly on the island and on the left side of the road. Inside Kuah Town, watch out for errors in the road arrows - they may lead you into wrong lanes or into barricades. There are tourists, children and animals like chickens, cows and even buffaloes crossing. Take care not to run over the beautiful snakes or monitors.

Be careful driving around Langkawi at night. Although main roads are well-lit, some of the more minor roads are not very well lit and may pass through Kampungs (traditional Malay villages) or rural areas where the locals seem to take a very casual approach to road safety. Drive slow and watch out for erratically piloted motorbikes, pedestrians and livestock. At night, watch out for water buffalo sleeping in the road. Cattle and snakes like to lie on the road at night; the blacktop radiates heat.

Be sure to carry your drivers licence with you needs at all times, and wear your seatbelt - unless you want a fine. If on a motorcycle, wear your helmet; aside of fines, but more importantly, the hospital does not have facilities to treat head injuries you will have to get medivac out to Penang (45+ minutes) and thats if the helicopter is available. Road blocks are commonplace in Langkawi; they are mainly interested in locals with no licence. Make sure you have the above items an you will have no problems.

Remember to have regularly check on your fuel level, petrol pump stations, (gas stations) are far from one another. However, rental agencies do not care how much fuel is in the tank when the vehicle is returned so do not spend more on fuel than you have to. At the gas/petrol station for the first time will confuse you, as you will need to guess how much fuel you need and pay first.

Car Rental Protection
Learn how to protect yourself when renting a car at Langkawi Airport.