Public Transportation in Cambodia
Cambodia has limited options for public transportation, but there are plenty of new services planned.
Bus
Phnom Penh City Bus is a municipal public transport system that serves Phnom Penh. The system opened to the public in September 2014 with 3 lines; other lines have been gradually added over several years and as of 2018, 11 lines run throughout the city. The system covers Prek Pnov (North), Ta Khmao (South), Chbar Ampov (East), and the Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone (West).
Train
Currently, the train services in Cambodia are operated by Royal Railway. However, this train service is not available for travelling within the city centre. It allows passengers to travel to and from Phnom Penh city to the provinces and Phnom Penh International Airport. Further information regarding train times, routes and fares are available directly at the Central Railway Station or online at http://royal-railway.com/
Taxis and Tuk tuks in Cambodia
Taxis
Many tourists and foreigners in Cambodia rely on taxis to navigate the city. The introduction of ride-hailing mobile applications (such as Grab) has increased competitiveness and helped with self-regulation.
Tuk tuk / Motorbike Taxi (Moto)
Similarly, tuk tuks and motorbike taxis are a common means of transport. They are cheaper alternative to taxis. Tuk tuks are two-wheeled carriages pulled behind a motorbike and can accommodate typically up to 4 persons. Tuk tuks are the preferred choice for tourists/foreigners as it is safer than motorbike taxi and cheaper than a normal car taxi.
Mobile Phone Ride-Hailing Applications
There are various e-hailing mobile phone applications currently available in Cambodia which saves users from the hassle of negotiating as these applications automatically calculate fares and notify both parties the amount. Currently, applications in operation include Grab, ExNet and PassApp.
Cambodia Airports
Phnom Penh International Airport is located west of the city centre. The newly expanded airport, which now has a capacity of 5 million passengers per year, recorded its highest passenger movements during 2018, surpassing Siem Reap International Airport. In the medium-term, the expansion of Phnom Penh International Airport is expected to increase the number of airlines operating within the Kingdom, which will improve connectivity to Cambodia.
Private Transportation in Cambodia
Driving License
Driving in Cambodia is based on the US system. The driver position is on the left-hand side of the car and the overtaking lane is the left most lane. The minimum age for obtaining a driving license in Cambodia is 18.
To drive a car in Cambodia, a driver must have a Cambodian driver license. International Driving Permits are not recognised in Cambodia. It is also recommended to have a as an additional identification document.
To apply for a Cambodian driver license, foreign drivers have two options:
1). To applying for driver license examination (written and driving test) - this license will be valid for 10 years.
2). Exchanging their current valid national driving permit for a Cambodian driver license - this license will be valid for 1 year.
Drivers must apply in person at the Department of Public Works and Transportation office. Agents are no longer permitted to apply. For drivers applying with their existing national driving permits, an English translation will be required as the only language recognised is English and Khmer.
It is an offence to drive without a valid driver’s license. With the increasing crackdown on drivers without a valid driving license, most foreign drivers are subjected to random police checks on the major roads of Cambodia. Offenders found without a valid driving license will be subjected to a heavy fine.
There is no licensing required for driving a motorbike or scooter of 125cc and below. All riders are required to wear a helmet in addition to compliance with all other traffic rules.
Further information and full traffic laws are available directly at the Department of Public Works and Transportation office or online at http://www.mpwt.gov.kh/en/home
Vehicle taxes, registration fees and technical inspection
In Cambodia all vehicles must be registered in accordance with the prescribed law and also need to pass a technical inspection to prove it roadworthiness. You can register your vehicle through the Ministry’s automated online registration system at: https://vehicle.mpwt.gov.kh
Select your preferred license number and complete your registration information online.
Vehicle registration fee is 125,000 Riels, plus an additional fee if you choose a preferred number plate.
Motorcycles and tricycle registration can be done at every Motor Dealer nationwide, at every Provincial Department of Public Works and Transport or at the One Window Service Offices located at every District in Phnom Penh and in all provinces.
The registration fee is 40,000 Riels and you will receive your number plate (immediately) at that location. Note that motorcycles or tricycle will receive registration documents after inspection by the relevant officials.
Road tax in Cambodia
Road tax is another consideration when owning a car in Cambodia. Further information on payable road tax and its calculation can be obtained from the office of The General Department of Taxation of Ministry of Economy and Finance.
Leasing a car in Cambodia
Hire purchase interest rates in Cambodia are generally high, therefore most expatriates and companies lease a car. For more information on car leasing, you can check a local online trading website at: https://www.khmer24.com
There are also many local and international car leasing companies located throughout Phnom Penh.
Please contact our professional team of real estate agents at +855 23 966 878 or enquiry@kh.knightfrank.com if you need any advice on relocation and real estate in Cambodia.