Getting your Driver’s Licence? We Got You!

Nervous about getting your Singaporean driver’s licence? Unsure about the procedures? Here’s a guide to convince you to do it now!

How to Start

Source: GetGo

Your journey begins once the clock strikes 12 on your 18th birthday. You can legally apply to get your driving licence. Congrats! You have to decide between an automatic (Class 3A) or manual (Class 3) license. Most people pick Class 3A as it is easier and the more common option. However, the benefits of Class 3 include a more fulfilling experience and you never know when your manual driving skills will come in useful… (hint: driving overseas).

Enrol at any of three driving centres, depending on its proximity to your house or convenience —Bukit Batok Driving Centre (BBDC), ComfortDelGro Driving Centre (CDC) or Singapore Safety Driving Centre (SSDC). 

Source: TheSmartLocal

How to balance taking your licence and school 

For fellow students juggling school and driving lessons (like me), planning around one to two weeks ahead will ensure you’ll get the slots you want to suit your schedule. Private instructors offer more flexibility, allowing you to liaise lesson timings with them personally. Night lessons are also available, so your only concern should be your commitment to passing the test. Are you willing to make sacrifices such as your social life? 

Source: Seedly Blog

The expenses

You should expect to spend $1,500–$3,000, depending on your school or private instructor. With lessons, simulator sessions, and tests, it will be a significant investment, but it’s only getting more expensive every year. So, there’s no better time than now.

Pros and Cons of Taking Your Licence

Pros:
Bragging rights: Amongst your friends, you will probably be the first with a licence!

Run errands efficiently: Driving is beneficial for some courses or internships.

Avoid cab surges: Plan your finances better!

Cons:

Time: Booking lessons and tests are tricky (I had to book my simulator six months in advance without knowing my schedule).

Cost: Are you financially ready to spend $1,500-$3,000 on your licence?

Conclusion

If you are between 18 to 21, this is probably the best time to take your drivers' licence. You have lesser responsibilities presently. The other thing is cost and time. As of 2019, mandatory simulator training was implemented. This extends your completion by up to six months, and it costs up to $90 for all three sessions! Who knows what new requirements will be added as the years move on? With that, I hope to see you all on the roads soon enough!

Source: GetGo