Driving License in Singapore 2024: Category, Application, Cost & Validity

Obtaining a driving license in Singapore is a significant milestone that comes with a structured process and specific requirements.

Whether you are a local resident or an expatriate, having a driving license opens up a world of mobility and convenience.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the various types of driving licenses in Singapore, the steps involved in obtaining and renewing a license, and the associated costs.

Driving License in Singapore

In the vibrant city-state of Singapore, obtaining the privilege to drive is a carefully regulated process. Like many countries, Singapore requires all drivers to hold a valid driving license and strictly follow traffic regulations.

Eligibility for Driving

You need to be at least 18 years old to apply for a Qualified Driving License (QDL) in Singapore, which marks the beginning of your driving journey.

Types of Driving Licenses in Singapore

Singapore offers various types of driving licenses, each catering to different needs and qualifications.

Provisional Driving Licence (PDL)

• Purpose: For learners in driving schools.
• How to Get It: Pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT).

Restrictions:

1. Must drive with a certified instructor.
2. Cannot use expressways or certain busy roads.
3. Must display an “L” plate.

• Validity:

1. Initially valid for 6 months, renewable every 6 months for licenses issued before December 1, 2017.
2. Licenses issued after December 1, 2017, are valid for 2 years.

• Additional Requirements: Applicants over 65 must pass a medical exam when applying or renewing.
• Next Step: Progress to a full license after passing the final theory test.

Qualified Driving Licence (QDL)

• How to Get It: Pass the practical driving test.
• Probation Period:

1. 1 year, requiring the display of a triangular probationary license plate.
2. More than 12 demerit points during this period results in license revocation.
3. Failure to display the plates can lead to fines or immediate revocation after repeated offenses.

• Exception: Drivers with a Class 3A license for over a year, who recently passed their Class 3 (manual) test, need to display the probationary plate only when driving a manual vehicle.

Vocational Driving Licence (VDL)

• Purpose: For commercial vehicle drivers such as taxis and buses.
• Categories:

1. Bus Driver Vocational License: Requires a Class 3 Singapore driving license, at least one year of driving experience, a clean driving record, and a minimum age of 21.
2. Taxi Driver Vocational License and Private Hire Car Driver Vocational License: Applicants must be Singapore citizens aged at least 30.

Obtain a Driving License in Singapore (For Foreigners)

If you’re a foreigner looking to obtain a driving license in Singapore, the process is straightforward but varies slightly depending on your residency status. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Temporary Driving with a Foreign License

• Eligibility: You must be above 18 years old and hold a Work Pass, Dependent Pass, or Student Pass.
• Validity: You can drive in Singapore with a valid foreign driving license (Class 3, 3A, or 2B) for up to 12 months. After this period, you need to obtain a Singapore driving license.

Step 2: Check Conversion Requirements

• Requirement: Check if your foreign driving license needs to be converted to a Singapore driving license.

Step 3: Pass the Singapore Basic Theory Test (BTT)

• Requirement: To convert your foreign license to a Singapore license, you must pass the Singapore Basic Theory Test (BTT). Note that overseas theory test results are not accepted.
• Steps:

Create an account with one of the three driving centers:

1. Bukit Batok Driving Centre
2. ComfortDelGro Driving Centre
3. Singapore Safety Driving Centre

Step 4: Apply for Conversion

• Where to Apply: Apply for the conversion at the Traffic Police Test Centre counter in any of the above-mentioned driving centers.
• Documents Needed:

1. Original and a photocopy of your passport.
2. Original and a photocopy of your NRIC/entry permit/employment pass/dependent pass/social visit pass/work permit.
3. Original and a photocopy of your valid foreign driving license.

One recent matte passport-sized color photograph with a white background. Ensure that:

1. Eyes are looking straight.
2. Both ears and eyebrows are visible.
3. No headgear unless worn for religious reasons.
4. Glasses are not tinted.
5. Processing fee of $50 (payment by CashCard or NETS only).

• Additional Requirements:

If your foreign driving license is not in English, provide:

1. An international driving permit; or
2. An official translation in English from the relevant Embassy, High Commission, or a Singapore-registered translation company (Translation is not required for licenses from Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia).

If your foreign driving license does not indicate the first date of issue, obtain an extract of the driving license record from the licensing authority.

Ensure your foreign driving license was obtained before the issuance of your Work Pass/Dependent Pass/Student Pass, etc.

Obtain a Driving License in Singapore (For Singaporean Citizens)

Obtaining a driving license in Singapore is a structured process that ensures individuals are well-prepared for safe and responsible driving.

If you’re a Singaporean citizen looking to get your driver’s license, here are the steps you should follow:

Step 1: Enroll in a Reliable Driving School

• Enroll in a reputable driving school accredited by the Traffic Police.
• Ensure the school adheres to approved standards for road safety and traffic regulations.

Step 2: Attend Theory Lessons

• Attend and actively participate in theory lessons provided by your chosen driving school.
• Equip yourself with essential knowledge about safe driving practices and road rules.

Step 3: Pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT)

• Register for and pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT) at a designated test center.
• Demonstrates your understanding of traffic rules, regulations, and road safety.

Step 4: Learn Practical Driving Lessons

• Enroll in practical driving lessons conducted by a qualified driving instructor.
• Gain hands-on experience, develop driving skills, and become familiar with local traffic situations and driving norms.

Step 5: Pass the Final Theory Test (FTT)

• Pass the Final Theory Test (FTT) if you are applying for a Class 3 driving license.
• Assess your proficiency in advanced driving theory and practical knowledge, confirming your comprehensive understanding of safe driving practices.

Step 6: Pass the Practical Driving Test

• Undergo a practical driving test administered by the Traffic Police.
• Demonstrate your driving skills, ability to follow traffic rules, and capability to handle various road conditions.

Step 7: Submit an Application for a Driving License

• Apply for a Singapore driving license after successfully passing the driving tests.
• Steps:

1. Complete the required application forms.
2. Gather supporting documents, including proof of identification and residency status.
3. Pay the applicable fees.

Step 8: Obtain Your Driving License

• Apply for the Qualified Driving Licence (QDL) online to receive your Singapore driving license.
• The process typically takes around two weeks after submitting your application.

Probation Period

• Duration: One-year probationary period.
• Requirement: Display a probation plate.
• Consequences: Accumulating more than 12 demerit points during this period may result in license revocation by the Traffic Police.

Additional Requirements for Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents

If you are a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, you must show documentation indicating that you have studied or worked in a foreign country for one year or more, such as education transcripts or tax return documents.

• You must also have stayed in that foreign country for a total period of at least six months within 12 months.
• If you hold a foreign driving license that expires with your foreign visa, you must obtain a written extract from the foreign license-issuing authority.
• This extract should include information about your driving test passing date, the date of issue of your foreign driving license, the class of license attained, and your driving record.
• Remember to register for the BTT test within three months of returning to Singapore.

Maintaining a Driving License in Singapore

In the realm of “Driving License in Singapore,” it is vital to be well-informed about the necessary procedures for renewal, replacement, and application.

Here’s a guide to ensure you keep your driving privileges intact:

• Foreigners holding valid work passes or Student/Long-Term Visit passes issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) or the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) need to renew their Singapore driving license online.
• Renewal is required if your existing valid Singapore driving license is expiring in 1 month or less. You can apply for renewal using your Singpass account, and there’s no need to submit a new photograph.
• For those not eligible for Singpass, such as work permit holders and student pass holders, renewal can be done using your FIN number, Date of Birth, and card serial number for login.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged Driving License

If you have lost your existing valid Singapore driving license or if it is damaged, you need to apply for a replacement.

The process varies slightly for Singapore citizens, permanent residents, and foreigners with valid work or student passes. Here are the steps to follow:

For Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents

• Apply Online: Apply for a replacement driving license online. A fee of S$25 is required. Payment must be made online using eNETS or a credit card.
• Photograph: There’s no need to submit a new photograph. The existing photograph in the system will be used for your new Singapore photo card driving license.
• Return Original License: Upon receiving your replacement driving license or upon discovering the loss of the original, you must return the original Singapore driving license to the Traffic Police within 7 days.

For Foreigners with Valid Work Passes or Student/Long-Term Visit Passes

• Apply Online: Apply for a replacement driving license online using your Singpass account. A fee of S$25 is required. Payment must be made online using eNETS or a credit card.
• Photograph: Like Singapore citizens and permanent residents, there’s no need to submit a new photograph for the replacement driving license.
• Return Original License: Upon receiving your replacement driving license or upon discovering the loss of the original, you must return the original Singapore driving license to the Traffic Police within 7 days.
• Method: Return the license either through a drop box at the Traffic Police Headquarters or via registered mail.

Application of a Qualified Driving License (QDL)

Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents who have passed their practical driving test must apply for their Qualified Driving License (QDL) online, using their Singpass account.

For Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents

• Apply for the Qualified Driving License (QDL) online using your Singpass Account. A fee of S$50 is required. Payment must be made online using eNETS or a credit card.
• The digital photograph taken at the driving center where you passed your practical test will be used for your photo card driving license.
• Once your QDL application and payment are successful, your photo card driving license will be mailed to you via registered post within 7 working days.

For Foreigners

Foreigners who have passed their practical test at any of the 3 Traffic Police Test Centers should also apply for their QDL online using their Singpass account.

For Those Without Singpass

Foreigners who cannot apply for Singpass, such as work permit holders and student pass holders, should apply for the QDL online using their FIN number, Date of Birth, and card serial number for login.

• A fee of S$50 is required. Payment must be made online using eNETS or a credit card.
• The digital photograph taken at the driving center where you passed your practical test will be used for your photo card driving license.
• Once your QDL application and payment are successful, your photo card driving license will be mailed to you via registered post within 7 working days.

Driving License Cost in Singapore

Acquiring a driver’s license in Singapore is a significant milestone, and understanding the associated costs is essential.

Whether you choose a driving school or opt for a private instructor, here’s a detailed breakdown of the expenses involved:

Driving School Enrollment Fee

Enrollment fees at any of the three driving schools – Singapore Safety Driving Centre (SSDC), ComfortDelGro Driving Centre (CDC), and Bukit Batok Driving Centre (BBDC) – are approximately $97.20. This fee is valid for one year.

Course Extension Fees

• SSDC: $59.40 (for 6 months)
• CDC: $64.80 (for 6 months)
• BBDC: $8.21 (for 1 month)

Opting for BBDC may be more cost-effective if you need less than 6 months of additional lessons.

For private instructors, the enrollment fee typically ranges from $80 to $90, reflecting their lower overhead costs compared to driving schools.

Driving Lessons (Theory)

At a driving school, you’ll also need to pay for theory lessons. The cost depends on whether you’ve taken and passed any theory tests before.

The fees are typically paid along with the registration/enrollment fees when you sign up.

• SSDC: $186.52 (enrollment + 4 classes)
• CDC: $178.20 (enrollment + 4 classes)
• BBDC: $166.32 ($170.64 from 1 Nov 2023) (enrollment + 4 classes), $17.28 ($18.36 from 1 Nov 2023) per additional class

Driving Theory Tests (BTT & FTT)

• Basic Theory Test (BTT): $6.50
• Provisional Driving License (PDL): $25 (valid for two years)
• Final Theory Test (FTT): $6.50

You can apply for the PDL after passing the BTT, allowing you to start practical driving. Once you hold a PDL, you can also apply for the FTT.

Practical Driving Lessons at a Driving Centre

Driving schools have a set syllabus and sometimes require a minimum number of lessons before you can book a driving test. Practical lesson fees vary based on peak and off-peak hours.

• SSDC: $72.36 – $81 per 100-minute class
• CDC: $69.12 – $77.76 per 100-minute class
• BBDC: $69.12 – $77.76 per 100-minute class

If you wish to request a specific instructor at SSDC, there’s an additional fee of $8.64 per session.

Summary of Costs

• Enrollment Fee: $97.20
• Course Extension (if needed): $59.40 (SSDC), $64.80 (CDC), $8.21/month (BBDC)
• Theory Lessons: $166.32 – $186.52 (4 classes)
• Basic Theory Test (BTT): $6.50
• Provisional Driving License (PDL): $25
• Final Theory Test (FTT): $6.50
• Practical Driving Lessons: $69.12 – $81 per 100-minute class
• Additional Instructor Fee (SSDC): $8.64 per session

Driving License Validity in Singapore

In Singapore, the validity of a driving license varies based on specific criteria and factors. Here’s an overview of the different aspects of driving license validity in the country:

Qualified Driving License (QDL) Validity

Issuance:

• A Qualified Driving License (QDL) is issued upon passing the practical driving test.

Probation Period:

• Duration: 1 year
• Requirement: Display a probationary license plate on the front and rear windshields of the vehicle.
• Consequences: If a QDL holder accumulates more than 12 demerit points within the probationary year, the license will be revoked.

Provisional Driving License (PDL) Validity

Issuance:

• A Provisional Driving License (PDL) is issued after passing the Basic Theory Test (BTT) and the Final Theory Test (FTT).

Validity:

• Duration: 2 years
• Restrictions: Allows the holder to start driving under certain conditions and restrictions.

For Foreign Driving License Holders

Initial Validity:

• Foreigners above the age of 18 holding a Work Pass, Dependent Pass, or Student Pass may drive in Singapore with a valid foreign license for up to 12 months.

Requirement After 12 Months:

• After 12 months, a Singapore driving license is required to continue driving legally.

Age-Related License Validity

Minimum Age for Various Classes:

• Class 3 (Motor Cars): Minimum age is 18.
• Class 4 or Class 5 (Heavy Vehicles): Minimum age is 21.

Medical Clearance

• License holders are required to undergo a medical clearance after reaching the age of 65 to ensure continued eligibility to drive.

Top Driving License Schools in Singapore

If you’re looking to obtain your driving license in Singapore, you’ll want to enroll in a reputable driving school to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge.

Here are some of the top driving license schools in Singapore:

ComfortDelGro Driving Centre

• Services: Driving Course, Motorcar Course, Motorcycle Course, Foreign License Conversion, Traffic Police Safe Driving Course, and more
• Website: ComfortDelGro Driving Centre
• Address: 205 Ubi Ave 4, Singapore 408805
• Contact Details: +65 6978 8199

Operating Hours:

• Monday – Friday: 9 AM–7 PM
• Saturday: 8:30 AM–12:30 PM
• Closed on Sundays

Singapore Safety Driving Centre

• Services: Motorcar Courses, Motorcycle Courses, Heavy Vehicle Courses, and more
• Website: Singapore Safety Driving Centre
• Address: 2 Woodlands Industrial Park E4, Singapore 757387
• Contact Details: Contact Form

Operating Hours:

• Monday – Friday: 9:15 AM–7 PM
• Saturday – Sunday: 9:15 AM–12:30 PM

Bukit Batok Driving Centre

• Services: Motorcar Course, Motorcycle Course, Bus Driver’s Vocational License Course, Re-Training Course, Defensive Driving Course, and more
• Website: Bukit Batok Driving Centre
• Address: 815 Bukit Batok West Ave. 5, Singapore 659085
• Contact Details: +65 6561 1233

Operating Hours:

• Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM–7:30 PM
• Saturday – Sunday: 8:30 AM–1 PM

Pan Country Driving Centre

• Services: Driving Course Class 3 – 5, Modularized Training, Theory, and more
• Website: Pan Country Driving Centre
• Address: 2 Woodlands Industrial Park E4, Singapore 757387
• Contact Details: +65 6268 3331

Operating Hours:

• Monday – Sunday: 7:45 AM–3:45 PM

Car Refresher Course Centre

• Services: Driving Refresher Courses, Road Safety, Expressway Driving, Vertical & Parallel Parking, and more
• Website: Car Refresher Course Centre
• Address: 409 Serangoon Central, #08-303, Singapore (Appointment Only)
• Contact Details: +65 9171 3778

Operating Hours:

• Monday – Sunday: 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

FAQs About Singapore Driving License

If you have questions about obtaining and holding a driving license in Singapore, here are some common FAQs and answers to help you navigate the process:

What is the minimum age requirement to apply for a Qualified Driving License (QDL) in Singapore?

Answer: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Qualified Driving License (QDL) in Singapore.

How long is a Provisional Driving License (PDL) valid in Singapore?

Answer: A Provisional Driving License (PDL) is valid for 2 years.

Can foreigners drive in Singapore with a foreign driving license?

Answer: Yes, foreigners above the age of 18 holding a Work Pass, Dependent Pass, or Student Pass may drive in Singapore with a valid foreign license for up to 12 months. After this period, a Singapore driving license is required.

What steps must foreigners take to convert their foreign driving license to a Singapore driving license?

Answer: Foreigners must pass the Singapore Basic Theory Test (BTT), apply for conversion at a Traffic Police Test Centre with necessary documents, and pay a processing fee of $50.

What is the probation period for a Qualified Driving License (QDL) holder, and what are the requirements?

Answer: The probation period is 1 year. During this period, the holder must display a probationary license plate and must not accumulate more than 12 demerit points, or the license will be revoked.

What are the additional requirements for renewing a driving license after the age of 65?

Answer: License holders are required to undergo a medical clearance to ensure continued eligibility to drive.

What happens if I lose my Singapore driving license?

Answer: You must apply for a replacement online. A fee of $25 is required, and the existing photograph in the system will be used for your new license. You must return the original license to the Traffic Police within 7 days upon receiving the replacement.

Summary

Obtaining a driving license in Singapore is a significant step towards mobility and independence. Whether you’re a local resident or a foreigner, the process involves passing theory and practical tests.

The minimum age for applying for different classes of licenses varies, with the QDL for cars typically available at age 18.

New drivers receive a Provisional Driving License (PDL) upon passing theory tests, allowing them to practice with restrictions for two years.

Those who successfully complete the practical test can obtain a Qualified Driving License (QDL) and undergo a one-year probation period.

During this time, a probationary license plate must be displayed, and accumulating more than 12 demerit points leads to license revocation.