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Costs of Getting a Driving Licence in Singapore
For those holding a foreign driving licence, the first step is passing the Basic Theory Test (BTT) and then applying for a licence conversion at any driving centre in Singapore. This conversion process incurs a $50 fee, excluding the cost of the BTT. If your licence isn’t in English, you’ll need either an international driving permit or an official translation from your embassy or a registered translation service.
Singaporeans or Permanent Residents who hold a foreign licence must demonstrate that they lived or worked abroad for at least a year. They also need to register for the BTT within three months of returning to Singapore.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs involved in getting a driving licence in Singapore:
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Driving Licence in Singapore
1. Registration at a Driving Centre
Begin by registering with a driving centre, whether you plan to take practical lessons from a school or a private instructor. The three main centres in Singapore are Bukit Batok Driving Centre (BBDC), ComfortDelGro Driving Centre (CDC), and Singapore Safety Driving Centre (SSDC). Choose the centre that is most convenient for you, as all your tests will be conducted there. Registration can be completed online or at the centre’s self-help kiosks. Decide whether you want a manual (Class 3) or automatic (Class 3A) licence.
2. Eyesight and Colour-Blindness Test
You must take an eyesight and colour-blindness test at the driving centre. Private learners need to book an appointment, while driving school students take this test during their first theory lesson.
3. Theory Tests: Basic Theory Test (BTT) and Final Theory Test (FTT)
Pass the BTT to obtain your Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) and the FTT before taking the practical driving test. Study guides and practice questions are available in bookstores and online, including free resources from the Singapore Police Force’s website.
4. Applying for a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL)
After passing the BTT, apply for your PDL online via the Singapore Police Force’s e-service portal or in person at the Traffic Police Test Centre. The PDL costs $25 and is necessary for practical lessons.
5. Practical Driving Lessons
Choose between a private instructor or a driving school for your practical lessons. Private instructors offer flexible scheduling, while driving schools operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Each option has its benefits, such as consistent instruction with private instructors or standardized teaching methods at driving schools.
6. Driving Simulator Sessions
Complete three mandatory driving simulator sessions. These sessions simulate common traffic scenarios, teaching you defensive driving in a safe environment. Book these sessions early due to high demand.
7. Practical Driving Test
After completing your lessons and simulator sessions, schedule and pass your practical driving test. This is the final step to getting your driving licence in Singapore.
Additional Tips
- Booking Lessons: Schedule practical lessons well in advance to avoid delays.
- Studying: Regular practice and using available resources will help you pass your theory tests.
- Simulator Sessions: Book simulator sessions as soon as you are eligible to avoid long waiting times.
Getting your driving licence in Singapore involves several steps, but following this guide can simplify the process. Soon, you’ll be driving confidently and independently on Singapore’s roads.
