It’s no secret that cars are pretty pricey in Singapore. Even if you’re willing to fork out the cash, it’s likely that your dream of zipping around the island will morph into a traffic jam nightmare. If you’re considering riding as an alternative, here are some essential things to know on the road to getting a motorcycle license in Singapore.
Converting your Foreign License
If you’re residing in Singapore for less than 12 months, and possess a valid foreign motorcycle license along with an International Driving Permit (IDP), a simple conversion procedure will allow you to start riding. All that’s required is to pass the national Basic Theory Test (BTT), which can be taken at any of the three driving schools in Singapore – Woodlands Driving Test Centre, Bukit Batok Driving Test Centre, Kampong Ubi Test Centre. You’ll get the details on necessary documents needed for the conversion procedure here.
How to Enroll for a Motorcycle License
For those of you who are in for the long haul, it’s mandatory that you enroll for a local motorcycle riding license and necessary documents include a valid passport and work permit/employment pass/dependent pass. There are three license categories – Class 2B, 2A, and 2 – if you’re a complete beginner you’ll have to start with Class 2B and hold the license for a minimum of 12 months before you can progress to bigger engine licenses.
There are four key components that you’ll be required to pass – Basic Theory Evaluation, Basic Theory Test, Riding Theory Evaluation, and Riding Theory Test. Depending on your proficiency and availability to attend lessons, you should be able to complete all the lessons and tests between six months to a year.
Cost of a Motorcycle License
The total cost of obtaining a license is not fixed, with many flexible components like enrollment fees, number of theory lessons needed, number of practical lessons needed, whether you attend lessons during off-peak or peak period, vehicle rental fees and whether or not you pass on your first try. But most of the time, the total cost is kept under $1000 for each license category.
Where to Buy your Bike and Accessories
Start your research online, Sg Bike Mart is probably one of the most comprehensive websites out there regarding new bikes, old bikes, and accessories. If you foresee staying in Singapore for less than two years, consider purchasing a second-hand bike instead. Useful websites to check out include Singapore Bikes and A.S.Phoon. Once you’ve decided on a model, make the trip down to an authorized dealer to settle the purchase. They will handle all of the paperwork and insurance for you.
Calling all Motorbike Aficionados
If you love your Vespas and Harleys, meet other fans at these interest groups – Vespa Club Singapore, Harley-Davidson of Singapore’s Official Facebook Page, and Harley Davidson Owners Singapore (HOG Singapore). It’s a great way to pick up handy tips from fellow riders, and you could even end up planning a cross-country tour together.
Top Image: Vespa Club Sg