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Thinking about getting your driving license in Singapore? Whether you’re a local, PR, or work permit holder, this guide will walk you through every step in a simple, no-nonsense way. It’s all here from license types to schools, costs, and timelines. I can tell you the truth because I got my driving license recently.
Types of Driving Licenses in Singapore
Before jumping into the process, it helps to understand the different types of licenses available:
Class 3 / 3A (Car License)
- Class 3: For driving manual transmission cars.
- Class 3A: For driving automatic transmission cars only.
Most common for personal and family vehicles.
Class 2B / 2A / 2 (Motorcycles)
- Class 2B: Motorcycles up to 200cc
- Class 2A: Motorcycles between 201cc and 400cc (requires 1 year of Class 2B experience).
- Class 2: Motorcycles above 400cc (requires 1 year of Class 2A experience).
Class 4 (Medium-Sized Heavy Vehicles)
For vehicles above 2,500 kg unladen weight.
Includes medium-sized lorries, trucks, and some buses.
Must already hold a valid Class 3 license.
Minimum age: 21 years old.
Required for logistics, construction, and certain industrial jobs.
Class 5 (Very Class Heavy Vehicles)
For vehicles above 7,250 kg unladen weight.
Includes large lorries, trailers, and container trucks.
Must already hold a Class 4 license.
Minimum age: 21 years old.
Used in heavy industries, shipping ports, and transport companies.
PDVL / TDVL (For Hire)
PDVL: Private Hire Car Driver’s Vocational Licence (e.g. Grab).
TDVL: Taxi Driver’s Vocational Licence.
Additional courses and background checks are required.
Who Can Apply?
You must meet the following conditions:
Be at least 18 years old for Class 3/3A, 2B
21 years old for Class 4 and 5
Be medically fit (vision and hearing especially important)
Pass an eyesight test
Have a valid FIN or NRIC (foreigners and Singaporeans)
Steps to Get a Driving License in Singapore
1. Register with a Driving School or Private Instructor
There are 3 main driving schools in Singapore:
- Bukit Batok Driving Centre (BBDC)
- ComfortDelGro Driving Centre (Ubi)
- Singapore Safety Driving Centre (SSDC)
Or you can choose a private instructor, which may be cheaper and more flexible.
2. Take the Basic Theory Test (BTT)
- Mandatory for all first-time drivers
- Book online via the driving school or Traffic Police e-Services
- Study materials and mock test books are available
3. Apply for the Provisional Driving License (PDL)
Apply after passing BTT
- Cost: $25
Required to take practical driving lessons
4. Start Practical Driving Lessons
- Each session is around 100–120 minutes
- Includes circuit and road driving
- Class 3A learners may need around 20–30 lessons
- Class 3 learners may need 25–40 lessons (manual transmission is trickier)
5. Take the Final Theory Test (FTT)
- Required before you can take the practical test
- Similar format to BTT, more in-depth
6. Book and Take the Practical Driving Test
- Conducted by a Traffic Police examiner
- Covers safety checks, circuit tasks, and on-the-road driving
7. Get Your License
- If you pass, your digital license is available via Singpass
- A physical card will be mailed to you within 2–3 weeks
Driving Schools in Singapore
| Driving School | Location | Website Link |
| BBDC | Bukit Batok | BBDC Homepage |
| ComfortDelGro | Ubi | ComfortDelGro Driving Centre – CDC |
| SSDC | Woodlands | SSDC Singapore Safety Driving Center – SSDC Singapore Safety Driving Center |
Cost Breakdown (Estimated)
| Item | Driving School | private Instructor |
| Registration fee | $96 – $180 | ~$60 – $80 |
| Theory Lessons (optional) | $20 – $30 (Per Lesson) | Self study |
| BTT/FTT Fee | ~$6.5 each | ~ $6.50 each |
| PDL Application | $25 | $25 |
| Practical Lessons (per hour) | $68 – $85 | $50 – $70 |
| Practical Test | $300 – $350 ( Test + car) | $300 – $450 |
Total Cost of getting a driving license Estimate
- Driving School: ~$2,500 – $3,200
- Private Instructor: ~$2,500 – $3,000
I know some websites tell you Private instructors are cheap, but I have already explored the difference.
Timeline to Get Driving Licensed
| Method | Duration |
| Driving School | 5 to 7 months |
| Private | 4 to 7 months |
NOTE : IF YOU PASSED YOUR PRACTICAL TEST ON YOUR FIRST TIME.
Class 4 & 5 Notes:
- Add another 1–2 months for each class
- Class 4 & 5 courses are only available at selected schools
- More expensive due to vehicle size and test complexity
Tips for Success: Early to get driving license
- Practice regularly – aim for 2–3 lessons per week
- Take mock theory tests online
- Learn road rules and common test routes
- Stay calm during the practical test – don’t rush
First Thing First
Nowadays, every driving school is crowded. Choose a driving school so carefully. Success here is available only with one rule that is to be patient. It is a little bit hard, but still manageable.
