If you’ve recently passed your motorcycle practical test in Singapore, you’re on the path to obtaining your Qualified Driving License (QDL) and preparing to hit the road. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting your QDL, the importance of the Probation Plate (commonly known as P Plate), and how to ensure you’re fully compliant with Singapore’s road regulations.
What is a Qualified Driving License (QDL)?
A Qualified Driving License (QDL) is a mandatory requirement for anyone who has passed the motorcycle practical test in Singapore. This license certifies that you are legally permitted to ride a motorcycle on public roads.
- Eligibility: Only those who have passed the practical test at one of Singapore’s Traffic Police Test Centres can apply.
- Application Process: The QDL application must be completed online through the Singapore Police Force’s e-service portal using your SingPass account.
- Fees: A fee of S$50 is required for the application.
Steps to Apply for Your Motorcycle QDL
- Pass the Practical Test: Your journey begins with passing the practical test for the appropriate motorcycle class (e.g., Class 2B for motorcycles up to 200cc).
- Digital Photograph: Ensure you take a digital photograph at the driving center, as this will be used on your driving license.
- Apply Online: Use your SingPass account to apply for your QDL through the Singapore Police Force e-service portal.
- Make Payment: Pay the S$50 fee using eNETS or a credit card.
- Receive Your License: Your photo card driving license will be mailed to you via registered post within 7 working days.
Riding with QDL while waiting for your photo card driving license
After obtaining your QDL, you must display a P Plate on your motorcycle for the first 12 months. This is mandatory as it signals to other road users that you are a new rider. The P Plate must be prominently displayed at the front and rear of your motorcycle.
- Placement:
- For the front, the P Plate should be placed directly above or below the headlamp.
- For the rear, the P Plate should be placed above or below the license plate.
Failure to properly display the P Plate can result in fines or, in repeated cases, the revocation of your license.
Penalties for Riding Without a License
Riding without a Qualified Driving License (QDL) or physical photo card driving license in Singapore is a serious offense under the Road Traffic Act. The penalties include:
- First Offense: A fine of up to S$10,000, imprisonment for a term of up to 3 years, or both.
- Repeat Offenders: A fine of up to S$20,000, imprisonment for a term of up to 6 years, or both.
- Additional Penalty: The vehicle involved in the offense may be seized, and in severe cases, the court may order its forfeiture.
These penalties emphasize the importance of obtaining and carrying your QDL or driving license at all times when riding a motorcycle.
Penalties for Failure to Display P Plate
For newly licensed riders, failing to display the Probation Plate (P Plate) during the mandatory 12-month probation period can lead to the following penalties:
- First Offense: A fine of S$120.
- Repeat Offenses: For repeat offenders, the penalty becomes more severe. Accumulating two or more offenses of failing to display the P Plate can result in the revocation of your license.
- Additional Penalty: If a new rider accumulates 13 or more demerit points within the probation period, your license will also be revoked.
How to Replace Your Qualified Driving License (QDL) in Singapore
If you’ve lost, damaged, or defaced your Qualified Driving License (QDL) in Singapore, here’s a clear and concise guide to help you through the replacement process.
1. Eligibility
- Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents: You can replace your QDL online if you hold a valid Singpass account.
- Foreigners:
- Foreigners with valid work passes, student passes, or long-term visit passes can also apply online using their Singpass.
- If you don’t have a Singpass, use your FIN number, Date of Birth, and card serial number to apply.
2. Application Process
- Step 1: Visit the Singapore Police Force e-service portal.
- Step 2: Log in with your Singpass or, if you’re a foreigner without Singpass, with your FIN, Date of Birth, and card serial number.
- Step 3: Complete the application by providing all required details.
- Step 4: Pay the replacement fee of S$25 using eNETS or a credit card.
3. No New Photograph Required
Your existing photograph in the system will be used for your replacement QDL, so there’s no need to submit a new one.
4. Returning Your Original License
After receiving your replacement QDL, you must return the original license (if found) within 7 days. You can do this by:
- Dropping it in the designated drop box at the Traffic Police Headquarters.
- Mailing it via registered mail to: Testing & Licensing Branch, Traffic Police Headquarters, 10 Ubi Ave 3, Singapore 408865.
5. Contact Information
If you have any questions or need assistance:
- Phone: +65 6547 0000
- Email: [email protected]
How to Renew Your Qualified Driving License (QDL) in Singapore
If you are a foreigner holding a valid work pass or long-term visit pass and your Qualified Driving License (QDL) is about to expire, here’s a detailed guide based on the most current practices:
1. Eligibility
- Foreigners with Expiring Licences:
- This renewal process is specifically for foreigners whose valid Singapore driving licence is expiring within 1 month.
- Ensure that you have either a Singpass account or your FIN number, Date of Birth, and card serial number for log in.
2. Application Process
Scenario 1: Online Renewal (If Applicable)
- Step 1: Visit the Singapore Police Force e-service portal to begin your renewal application.
- Step 2: Log in using your Singpass account. If you don’t have a Singpass account, use your FIN number, Date of Birth, and card serial number.
- Step 3: Complete the online renewal application form with the required details.
- Step 4: Pay the necessary renewal fee via eNETS or credit card.
Scenario 2: In-Person Renewal (If Online Renewal is Not Applicable)
- Step 1: Visit the Traffic Police Headquarters in person.
- Step 2: Bring the following documents:
- Your existing Singapore QDL.
- Valid payment method (NETS/Visa/MasterCard/Debit card).
- Valid Dependent’s Pass, Employment Pass, Long-term Social Visit Pass, Student’s Pass, S-Pass, or Work Permit.
- Step 3: Complete the renewal application in person with the required details.
- Step 4: Pay the renewal fee using the provided payment methods.
3. No New Photograph Required
- The existing photograph in the system will be used for your renewed QDL, so there’s no need to submit a new photo.
4. Processing Time
- Once your renewal application is successfully submitted and the payment is made, your renewed QDL will be mailed to you within 7 working days.
5. Contact Information
- If you need assistance or have any questions regarding your QDL renewal:
- Phone: +65 6547 0000
- Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
New QDL Application
- Do I need to apply for a new QDL after passing the required theory and practical driving tests?
- Answer: Yes, after passing the required theory and practical tests for your specific class of license, you must apply for a new Qualified Driving Licence (QDL) online. This can be done via the Singapore Police Force e-services portal or through the Police@SG mobile app. It is illegal to drive without a valid QDL authorizing you to operate a vehicle.
- Who is eligible to apply for a new QDL?
- Answer: As of October 1, 2018, Singapore citizens, permanent residents, and foreigners with valid work passes (issued by MOM) or student/long-term visit passes (issued by ICA) are eligible to apply for a new QDL online after passing the relevant tests.
- How can I apply for a new QDL online?
- Answer: You can apply for a new QDL online through the (http://www.police.gov.sg/eservices or the Police@SG mobile application. You will need to use your SingPass account to log in. If you do not have a SingPass, you can use your Foreign Identification Number (FIN) along with your date of birth.
- How much does it cost to apply for a new QDL?
- Answer: The application fee for a new QDL is S$50. You can make the payment online using eNETS, Visa, MasterCard, or Debit card.
- When can I apply for a new QDL online?
- Answer: You can apply for your QDL online once you have passed the required theory and practical driving tests relevant to the class of driving licence you are applying for. Additionally, for Class 2B licences, you must complete the “Expressway Familiarisation Ride” training program conducted by a licensed driving school.
- When will I receive my new QDL after submitting my application?
- Answer: Your new QDL will be mailed to you within 7 working days upon successful application.
- How do I submit my photograph for my new QDL application?
- Answer: If you enrolled at a driving centre before October 1, 2018, you need to visit the driving centre’s service counter to take a digital photograph. This photograph will be submitted by the driving school to Traffic Police and used on your QDL. For those who enrolled after October 1, 2018, the photograph taken during enrolment will be used.
- Can I take and submit my own photograph for my new QDL application?
- Answer: No, Traffic Police only accepts digital photographs taken by the driving centres. However, plans are underway to allow the self-uploading of photographs online in the future.
- Can I apply for a new QDL over the counter at Traffic Police Headquarters?
- Answer: No, manual applications are not accepted. All applications for a new QDL must be completed online.
Replacement of QDL
- My QDL is lost/damaged/defaced. How can I replace it?
- Answer: From October 1, 2018, Singapore citizens and permanent residents can replace their QDL online using their SingPass account. Foreigners must apply in person at Traffic Police Headquarters.
- How much does it cost to replace my QDL?
- Answer: The fee for replacing your QDL is S$25.
- When will I receive my replacement QDL after submitting my application?
- Answer: Your replacement QDL will be mailed to you within 7 working days upon successful application.
- Do I need to submit a new photograph for the replacement QDL?
- Answer: No, the existing photograph in the Traffic Police database will be used.
Renewal of QDL
- Can foreigners renew their QDL online?
- Answer: No, foreigners must renew their QDL in person at Traffic Police Headquarters.
- What documents are required for renewal?
- Answer: You will need your existing QDL, a valid Dependent’s Pass, Employment Pass, Long-term Social Visit Pass, Student’s Pass, S-Pass, or Work Permit, and a valid payment method (NETS/Visa/MasterCard/Debit card).
For more detailed information or specific queries, you can always contact the Traffic Police at:
- Phone: +65 6547 0000
- Email: [email protected]
QDL Motorbike Rental Options
Motorcycles for New Riders
For QDL holders, choosing the right motorcycle to rent can make all the difference in building confidence on the road. We recommend models like the Yamaha Aerox, Honda CB190R (manual), and Honda ADV150. These motorcycles offer a balance of power and control, making them ideal for new riders.
Renting a Motorcycle with a P Plate
As a new QDL holder, you’ll need to display a P Plate on your rented motorcycle for the first 12 months. Please bring along your Probation Plate (P Plate) when renting a bike. Commercial insurance is covered for QDL P plate holders when renting a motorcycle from us.
Insurance and Safety Gear for New Riders
Safety is our top priority for new riders. All our rental motorcycles come with mandatory insurance coverage, including third-party liability. Please bring along your safety gear, including helmets, gloves, jackets, and long pants, ensuring you’re fully protected on the road.
Safety Tips for New Motorcycle Riders
Understanding Road Signs and Markings
Navigating the roads as a new rider requires a solid understanding of road signs and markings. Common signs you’ll encounter include speed limits, pedestrian crossings, and lane markings. Familiarizing yourself with these can help prevent accidents and keep you safe.
Defensive Riding Techniques for Beginners
Defensive riding is key to staying safe on the road. As a new rider, always anticipate the actions of other road users, maintain a safe following distance, and be prepared to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
Regular Maintenance Checks for Your Motorcycle
Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring your motorcycle’s longevity and safety. Before each ride, check your tire pressure, brake fluid levels, and lights. Regular servicing can prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your motorcycle in top condition.