How to Get Your Singapore
Driving Licence
Your complete step-by-step guide from registration to full licence — eligibility, theory tests, practical training, the TP driving test, and everything in between.
Singapore Driving Licence
[ Image Placeholder ]Singapore's Graduated Driver's Licence (GDL) Framework
Singapore uses a Graduated Driver's Licence (GDL) system managed jointly by the Traffic Police (TP) and the Land Transport Authority (LTA). The GDL framework is designed to progressively develop a new driver's skills and competence before granting full driving privileges. All new drivers begin with a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) before qualifying for a full licence after demonstrating one year of safe driving.
The licence class you apply for depends on the type of vehicle you wish to drive. Here are the three most common licence classes for new drivers in Singapore:
Class 3 / 3A
Allows you to drive motorcar or light goods vehicles up to 3,000 kg. Class 3 covers manual transmission (gearstick + clutch), while Class 3A covers automatic transmission only.
- Minimum age: 18 years old
- Valid NRIC, FIN, or passport required
- Pass BTT + FTT + Practical Test
- Class 3A holders can upgrade to Class 3
Class 3C / 3CA
A newer licence class introduced to streamline the learning process. Covers automatic passenger cars only, with a shorter practical training syllabus compared to Class 3A. Ideal for learners who only intend to drive automatics.
- Minimum age: 18 years old
- Automatic transmission vehicles only
- Fewer mandatory training hours
- Can upgrade to Class 3A/3 later
Class 2B
Entry-level motorcycle licence for motorcycles up to 200cc. The starting point for any aspiring motorcyclist in Singapore. You can later progress to Class 2A (up to 400cc) and Class 2 (unlimited cc).
- Minimum age: 16 years old
- Up to 200cc engine capacity
- BTT + practical circuit + road test
- Pathway to Class 2A and Class 2
Step-by-Step: From Zero to Full Licence
Getting your Singapore driving licence involves several stages. Follow this proven pathway and you will be fully licenced before you know it.
Check Eligibility
Before enrolling, confirm you meet all eligibility requirements set by the Traffic Police.
- Age: 18 years old or above for cars (Class 3/3A/3C); 16 years old for motorcycles (Class 2B)
- Identity: Valid Singapore NRIC, FIN (for PR/employment pass holders), or passport
- Vision: You must have a minimum visual acuity of 6/12 in at least one eye (corrected vision is acceptable)
- Medical fitness: Must be free from conditions that impair safe driving (e.g. epilepsy, severe hearing impairment)
Enrol at an Approved Driving Centre (ADC)
Singapore has three government-approved ADCs. Choose the most convenient one for you:
- CDC – Comfort DelGro Driving Centre, Ubi Avenue 3
- BBDC – Bukit Batok Driving Centre, Bukit Batok West Avenue 5
- SSDC – Singapore Safety Driving Centre, Woodlands Industrial Park
Bring your NRIC/passport, a passport-sized photo, and pay the registration fee (approximately $20–$25). You will be assigned a learner ID and can begin booking lessons and tests.
Sit and Pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT)
The BTT is your first formal test — a computerised multiple-choice examination on Singapore's traffic rules, road signs, and road safety principles.
Available in 6 languages (English, Mandarin, Malay, Tamil, Hindi, Punjabi). Conducted at your ADC or the TP Driving Test Centre. Results are shown immediately on screen.
Stage 1 Practical Training – Circuit Lessons
After passing the BTT, you begin Stage 1 practical training inside the ADC's circuit — a closed, off-road course designed to build fundamental vehicle control skills safely, away from real traffic.
Circuit training covers: vehicle familiarisation, moving off and stopping, gear changing (manual), the slope (hill start), the crank course, the S-course, directional change (3-point turn), and various parking manoeuvres. The number of mandatory circuit hours varies by licence class and training mode (school or private).
Sit and Pass the Final Theory Test (FTT) Class 3/3A Only
The FTT is the advanced theory test covering higher-level concepts required for safe on-road driving. It must be passed before Stage 2 practical lessons and the final driving test.
- Format: 50 MCQs in 50 minutes, 90% pass mark (45/50)
- Topics: Hazard perception, defensive driving, eco-driving, expressway rules, speed management
- Fee: $6.50 per attempt; unlimited retakes
- Note: Motorcyclists (Class 2B) do not sit the FTT — they proceed directly to Stage 2
Stage 2 Practical Training – On-Road Lessons
Stage 2 takes you onto real Singapore roads under the close supervision of a Qualified Driving Instructor (QDI). This is where you develop the situational awareness and road-craft skills needed to drive safely and independently.
On-road training covers: urban driving, expressway merging and lane changes, driving in various traffic conditions, pedestrian crossings, junctions and right-of-way, and safe following distance. Each lesson costs approximately $35–$55 depending on the ADC and time of day.
Simulator Training If Applicable
Depending on your ADC and the licence class, you may be required to complete mandatory simulator sessions before sitting the TP driving test.
- Hazard Perception Simulator: Develops your ability to identify and respond to potential road hazards
- Wet Weather Simulator: Simulates driving in heavy rain with reduced visibility and slippery roads
- Night Driving Simulator: Trains you to handle reduced visibility conditions safely
Traffic Police (TP) Driving Test
The practical driving test is conducted by a Traffic Police examiner and consists of two parts held on the same day:
- Circuit Test: You perform a series of prescribed exercises inside the ADC's circuit (slope, crank, S-course, parking, etc.). You must pass this before proceeding.
- On-Road Test: Approximately 30–40 minutes of driving on public roads, during which the examiner assesses your observations, signalling, speed control, and overall road safety behaviour.
Both tests use a demerit point system — you are allowed a maximum of 20 demerit points on the circuit and 20 on the road test. Certain offences result in immediate failure regardless of accumulated points.
P-PLATEProvisional Driving Licence (PDL)
Upon passing both the circuit and road tests, you receive your Provisional Driving Licence (PDL). You can legally drive on public roads but are subject to the following restrictions:
- PDL is valid for 1 year
- Must display a red P-plate on the front and rear of the vehicle at all times
- Maximum speed limit of 70 km/h
- Reduced demerit point threshold of 13 points (vs 24 for full licence holders)
Full Driving Licence – Graduation!
After holding your PDL for 1 full year without accumulating 13 or more demerit points and remaining accident-free, your licence is automatically converted to a full driving licence by LTA.
You will receive a notification from LTA. Remove your P-plates, enjoy the full 24-demerit point threshold, and drive with the full privileges of a licenced driver on all roads in Singapore.
Documents Required for Enrolment
Prepare these documents before heading to your chosen ADC. Having everything ready ensures a smooth registration process.
NRIC / Passport
Original document required. Photocopy may also be needed.
Birth Certificate
Required for applicants below 21 years of age (minors).
Passport Photo
Recent colour passport-sized photograph, white background.
Medical Form
Medical declaration or vision test results (if required by ADC).
Registration Fees
Payment for enrolment ($20–$25). NETS, PayNow, or credit card accepted at most ADCs.
Foreign Residents – Additional Documents Required
If you are a non-citizen resident of Singapore, you will also need to produce your valid pass or permit issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) or Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Accepted passes include:
Estimated Costs Breakdown
Getting your driving licence is an investment. Here is a breakdown of the typical costs you can expect throughout the process. Plan your budget accordingly.
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ADC Registration Fee | $20 – $25 | One-time fee paid at enrolment. Varies by ADC. |
| Basic Theory Test (BTT) | $6.50 / attempt | Payable each attempt. No limit on retakes. |
| Final Theory Test (FTT) | $6.50 / attempt | Class 3/3A/3C only. Same fee structure as BTT. |
| Practical Lessons (per lesson) | $35 – $55 | Rate varies by ADC, time slot, and lesson type. Peak hours cost more. |
| Simulator Training (per session) | $15 – $25 | Where applicable. Bundled into lesson packages at some ADCs. |
| TP Circuit Test (Class 3) | $35.60 | TP test fee for the circuit component. Subject to GST. |
| TP On-Road Test (Class 3) | $65.50 | TP test fee for the on-road component. Subject to GST. |
| Estimated Total (Class 3) | $2,000 – $3,500+ | Highly variable. Private learners may spend less; school learners typically more. |
Disclaimer: All fees listed above are estimates only and may have changed. Always confirm the latest fees directly with your chosen ADC, the Traffic Police, or the LTA website before making payment.
New Driver with Licence
[ Image Placeholder ]The Licence That Opens Every Road in Singapore
Getting your Singapore driving licence is one of the most meaningful milestones in adulthood. With your licence, you gain the freedom to explore the island at your own pace — from Jurong to Changi, from Woodlands to Sentosa.
The journey takes discipline, patience, and preparation — but with the right resources and mindset, you can pass your tests efficiently and join Singapore's community of safe, responsible road users.
Start Preparing NowP-Plate Rules – What Every New Driver Must Know
Passing your driving test is just the beginning. As a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) holder, you are subject to specific rules and restrictions under Singapore's Graduated Driver's Licence framework. Violating these rules can result in your PDL being revoked.
Mandatory P-Plate Display
You must display a red "P" plate on both the front and rear of your vehicle at all times while driving on a PDL. The plates must be clearly visible to other road users. Failure to display P-plates is an offence.
Speed Limit of 70 km/h
P-plate holders are restricted to a maximum speed of 70 km/h at all times, regardless of posted speed limits on the road. This applies even on expressways where the regular limit is 90 km/h. Speed cameras and enforcement are in effect.
13 Demerit Point Limit
PDL holders operate under a stricter demerit point threshold of 13 points, compared to 24 points for full licence holders. Accumulating 13 or more demerit points within a 12-month period will result in revocation of your PDL and disqualification from driving.
1-Year PDL Validity
Your PDL is valid for 1 year from the date of issue. During this period, you must drive safely and not accumulate 13 or more demerit points. After 1 year of clean driving, your licence is automatically upgraded to a full driving licence by LTA.
Road Restrictions
While P-plate restrictions do not specifically ban expressway driving, the 70 km/h speed cap applies everywhere. P-plate holders are advised to avoid peak-hour expressway driving until they are more experienced. Always check current LTA advisories for any road-specific restrictions.
Vehicle Class Restrictions
A PDL holder may only drive vehicles within the class they were tested on. You cannot drive heavy vehicles, buses, or vehicles requiring a higher licence class. Driving an unauthorised vehicle class is a serious offence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about getting your Singapore driving licence, answered.