MyKad at 18: A Step-by-Step Guide for Malaysian Parents to Avoid Delays
When your child turns 18, one administrative task becomes unavoidable: updating their MyKad.
While Malaysian law allows this replacement up to age 25, many parents only realise too late that passports, bank accounts, university registration, and government systems often will not proceed without a MyKad once a child is legally an adult.
This article breaks the process down step by step, so you know exactly when to go, where to go, what to bring, and what to check—with no guesswork.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility (Timing Matters)
Your child can apply to replace MyKid with MyKad from their 18th birthday onwards.
Although the law allows replacement between ages 18–25, parents are strongly advised to do this as soon as possible after the birthday. Delays often cause problems later when dealing with passports, banks, or post-secondary institutions.
Official reference: Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara (JPN)
Step 2: Decide Where to Apply (JPN vs UTC
You may apply at:
- Any JPN branch, or
- JPN counters at UTC (Urban Transformation Centre)
Important points parents often ask about:
- You do not need to return to the child’s birth state
- You may apply in any state in Malaysia
Many parents prefer UTC branches because processing is usually faster.
To reduce waiting time, appointments can be booked online: mytemujanji.jpn.gov.my
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Your child must be present in person.
Bring:
- Child’s MyKid
- Birth certificate (Sijil Kelahiran / 报生纸)
- IC of either parent (for verification, if required)
No passport-sized photos are needed.
Photos, fingerprints, and signatures are taken on-site.
Step 4: Understand the On-Site Process
The process at JPN or UTC is generally straightforward:
- Take a queue number
- Verify personal details (name, IC number, citizenship)
- Photo capture
- Fingerprint scanning
- Signature confirmation
Before leaving the counter, double-check all printed details, especially:
- Full name spelling
- IC number
- Citizenship status
Errors here can affect exam registration, university records, and financial aid systems later.
Step 5: Know How Long It Takes to Get the MyKad
Processing time depends on where you apply:
- Regular JPN branch: usually 1–2 weeks
- UTC JPN counter:
- Morning application → often same-day collection
- Afternoon application → usually next working day
If timing is critical, parents are advised to call the branch in advance.
Step 6: Update Education and Admin Records After Collection
Once the MyKad is issued, parents should immediately check that:
- School records match the exact MyKad name and IC number
- Exam registrations (SPM, UEC) reflect updated details
- Financial aid portals (PTPTN, SSPN) use the correct IC
This step is often overlooked but is crucial for avoiding future administrative blocks.
Common Situations Where MyKad Is Required After 18
Although replacement is legally allowed until 25, many systems will not proceed without a MyKad once your child turns 18, including:
- Passport application or renewal
- Bank account conversion (child or joint account → adult account)
- Driving licence matters (L, P, or full licence)
- University or college official registration
- Certain government systems and services
Handling the MyKad update early prevents repeated trips and unnecessary delays.
Final Checklist for Parents
Before you consider this task “done,” confirm that:
- MyKad details are accurate
- School and exam records are updated
- Financial and government portals accept the new IC
A single early visit can prevent multiple delays later.
