Driving to Singapore: Everything you need
Planning to drive to Singapore? Not so fast! There are a bunch of things you need before you can go on your road trip, starting with a passport that’s valid for at least 6 months. But that’s just the beginning! Let us walk you through all the other documents you need to drive into Singapore, when you should do it and how much it would potentially set you back.
Documents
Road tax and insurance
The first thing you need to do is ensure your road tax and insurance are valid. Next, you should update your details on this Singapore government website to make sure everything is in order. While your regular insurance coverage should cover Singapore, it must include third-party coverage for bodily injury and death. If your insurance policy does not have this, make sure to get the necessary coverage before moving on to the next step.
Read more: Car insurance in Malaysia
Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) Autopass Card
To drive a Malaysian (foreign-registered) vehicle into Singapore, you will need a VEP and an associated Autopass Card. The Autopass Card is used to track your car’s entry and exit as well as to pay any related fees and charges. To get an Autopass Card you will need to apply for one at least 2 weeks in advance.
After completing your application and payment, you’ll need to wait for the Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) approval email. Once you receive it, head over to the service centre (in Malaysia) you selected during your application to collect your Autopass Card. Don’t wait too long as your LTA approval email is only valid for 14 days. If you don’t collect your card within that time frame, you will need to go through the approval process again!
Keep in mind that the Autopass Card is only valid for the specific vehicle it is registered to. You cannot drive an unregistered vehicle into Singapore. Make sure the Autopass Card matches the car you plan to use for your trip!
How to extend your car’s VEP
Should you decide to extend your stay in Singapore beyond the initial 14-day allowance, you can apply for a VEP extension. To do so, you must complete the extension process before your VEP expires. Schedule an appointment with Singapore’s LTA’s Customer Service Centre at 10 Sin Ming Drive, Singapore 575701, at least 5 days prior to your VEP’s expiry.
If your VEP expires while you’re in Singapore, you risk facing hefty fines and, in severe cases, even the confiscation of your vehicle.
Arrival Card
If you are not a Singapore resident or citizen and plan to drive into Singapore, you need to submit an online arrival card to obtain an e-Pass. This document is essential for entry and should be completed in advance.
Fees
As you prepare to leave Singapore, ensure your Autopass Card has sufficient balance to cover all applicable fees. Below is a breakdown of the charges you may incur, allowing you to estimate how much you will need:
| Fees | Amount SGD | |
|---|---|---|
| Woodlands Checkpoint | Tuas Checkpoint | |
| Entry tolls | Free of charge | $2.10 |
| Exit tolls | $0.8 | $2.10 |
| VEP Fees | Waived for the first 10 days that you need to pay the VEP fees in each calendar year, then $35 a day that your car is in Singapore thereafter. You do not need to pay VEP fees: - On Saturdays, Sundays and Singapore public holidays - If you enter Singapore from 5.00 pm and exit by 2.00 am the next day - During Singapore's June and December school holidays, if you enter Singapore from 12 noon and exit by 2.00 am the next day |
|
| Reciprocal Road Charge (RRC) | $6.40 per entry | |
For example, if you drive to Singapore for the first time via the Woodlands Checkpoint and stay for 13 days while not going through any ERPs (Singapore’s tolls) and exit via the Tuas Checkpoint, you would pay the following in total:
| Fees | Cost SGD |
|---|---|
| Woodlands Checkpoint Entry | N/A |
| VEP | $105 |
| RRC | $6.4 |
| Tuas Checkpoint Exit | $2.10 |
| Total | $113.5 |
If you are planning to drive into Singapore, it is best to plan when you are going to drive through the checkpoints. The best times to enter Singapore to avoid rush hour traffic are as follows:
- Weekdays: Before 6AM / between 10AM – 3PM / 9PM onwards
- Weekends: Before 8AM / between 11AM – 2PM / 10PM onwards
As long as you have all the necessary documents and passes, you’re all set to drive to and around Singapore hassle-free! So now that you are armed with all the essential information for your trip to Singapore, make sure that your car is in good condition and safe to drive!
Get your car checked out by a trusted mechanic like Carro before you go! Book a service appointment today! If you need to renew your insurance, you can check out our panel of partner banks and choose the best policy for you!
Safe travels and enjoy your trip to Singapore! 🚗✨
