By the WahLiao desk · Last verified 29 September 2026
Foreigners living in Singapore may drive on a valid foreign licence for up to 12 months. After that, or sooner if you become a permanent resident (three months) or hold a work pass as a driver (six months), you must convert it to a Singapore licence. To convert, pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT) in Singapore, then apply to the Traffic Police with your foreign licence and supporting documents.
Conversion is straightforward if you plan it: you do not retake a practical driving test for a car, only the theory test on Singapore’s rules. The catch is timing, because the 12 months start when you begin living here.
Licence conversion: quick facts
| Drive on a foreign licence | Up to 12 months for foreigners living here; carry an International Driving Permit or official English translation if it is not in English |
| New permanent residents | May use a foreign licence for 3 months |
| Work pass drivers | May use a foreign licence for 6 months |
| To convert | Pass the Basic Theory Test in Singapore and hold a valid foreign licence |
| Where | Apply online, then attend Traffic Police Headquarters, 10 Ubi Avenue 3, by appointment |
| Work Permit and S Pass holders | Receive a Class 3C or 3CA licence on conversion |
The WahLiao Verdict
| Effort | A theory test and a counter visit; no practical test for a car. |
| The catch | If your licence was issued after you got your pass, you must prove six months’ stay in the issuing country. |
| Start | Within your first few months, before the 12-month limit. |
| Worth it for | Anyone planning to drive here beyond a year. |
| Skip it if | You will rely on trains, buses and taxis. |
Step 1: Pass the Basic Theory Test
Book the BTT at one of Singapore’s driving centres. It tests Singapore’s traffic rules and road signs; overseas theory results do not count. The driving centres offer courses and self-study options.
Step 2: Apply to the Traffic Police
Apply online through the Traffic Police’s conversion form, and attend Traffic Police Headquarters at 10 Ubi Avenue 3 only after securing an appointment. Bring the originals and copies of your passport, pass card, foreign licence and BTT result, plus any supporting documents requested. The Traffic Police may ask for more.
Who needs extra documents
If you are a permanent resident or pass holder and obtained your foreign licence after getting your PR status or first pass, you must show that you stayed at least six months within a 12-month period in the country that issued the licence. Singapore citizens converting a foreign licence must show the same.
Driving licence: FAQ
How long can I drive in Singapore on a foreign licence?
Up to 12 months if you are a foreigner living here, three months if you become a permanent resident, and six months if you hold a work pass as a driver.
Do I need to take a driving test to convert my licence?
For a car licence, you need only pass the Basic Theory Test. Work Permit and S Pass holders who want to drive light goods vehicles also need a practical test.
Where do I convert my licence?
Apply online, then attend Traffic Police Headquarters at 10 Ubi Avenue 3 by appointment.
Can I use my overseas theory test result?
No. You must pass Singapore’s Basic Theory Test.
Read next
This page belongs to Moving to Singapore. For the costs of owning a car here, The Big Buy explains road tax, parking and ERP; visiting friends can read driving as a visitor.
Sources checked 29 September 2026: Singapore Police Force, foreign driving licence conversion; Singapore Police Force, booking a conversion appointment. Last updated 29 September 2026.
