Starting September 22, driver’s licenses issued in Indonesia (locally known as SIM — not to be confused with phone SIM cards) will be more than just pieces of plastic cutout as the National Police are launching a new type of multi-purpose SIM.
As reported by Kompas, the new driver’s license, dubbed Smart SIM, will be equipped with a chip that would allow users to carry out electronic payments, such as tapping at a toll gate, KRL Commuterline stations, and even for online shopping. Users will be able to deposit up to IDR2 million (US$140) onto the card.
Furthermore, the chip in the Smart SIM will be able to store personal details about its user, including address and driving history.
“The Smart SIM can also show all driving violations the driver has committed. This is recorded online and in real time,” National Police Traffic Corps Chief Refdi Andri told reporters during the Smart SIM announcement in Jakarta yesterday.
Crucially, that means traffic police officers no longer have to confiscate a motorist’s license in the event of a traffic violation and that fines can be paid on the spot electronically using their Smart SIM. In theory, this should help authorities clamp down on the common problem of traffic police officers soliciting bribes from traffic violators.
Drivers who are issued a SIM on or after September 22 will receive the Smart SIM. Drivers with the old SIM will be able to swap their license for the Smart SIM at their local Vehicle Document Registration Center (Samsat), but will be subject to existing administration fees, which are as follows:
SIM A (for four wheel, private passenger car or cargo vehicle with weight under 3,500 kg)
New SIM: IDR120K
SIM extension: IDR80K
SIM B1 (for private passenger or cargo vehicles with weight exceeding 3,500 kg)
New SIM: IDR120K
SIM extension: IDR80K
SIM B2 (for heavy vehicles with trailers)
New SIM: IDR120K
SIM extension: IDR80K
SIM C (for motorcycles)
New SIM: IDR100K
SIM extension: IDR75K
SIM D (for special needs motorists)
New SIM: IDR50K
SIM extension: IDR30K
