Provisional Driving Licence (PDL)

singapore provisional driving licence

A Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) is a permit that allows you to practise driving on public roads under supervision.

After passing the Basic Theory Test (BTT), the PDL is the next step required before you can start practical driving lessons. It is necessary for both Class 3 (manual) and Class 3A (automatic) driving licences.

The PDL gives you the legal right to drive L-plate vehicles as long as you are accompanied by a certified driving instructor.

This supervised driving experience is crucial in preparatin for the Final Theory Test (FTT) and the Practical Driving Test (PDT).

Who Needs a PDL?

A Provisional Driving Licence is mandatory if you wish to start practical driving lessons anywhere in Singapore, whether learning to drive a car (Class 3 or Class 3A) or a motorcycle (Class 2B).

Below are the specific requirements you must meet:

1. Learner Drivers (Class 3 / Class 3A)

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be at least 18 years old.

  • Must have passed the Basic Theory Test (BTT).

  • Must complete a vision test (usually done at driving centres like BBDC, CDC, or SSDC).

Once these requirements are met, you can apply for the PDL, which grants the ability to practise driving with a certified driving instructor.

2. Motorcycle Learners (Class 2B)

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have passed the Basic Theory Test (BTT).

  • Must complete a valid vision test.

  • Must have completed the required circuit training before applying for the PDL.

The PDL allows motorcycle learners to practise riding under supervision in designated training circuits before taking the Practical Riding Test.

Key Restrictions and Requirements:

  • You are only permitted to drive L-plate vehicles with an instructor present at all times.

  • The PDL is valid for 2 years. If you do not pass both the Final Theory Test (FTT) and Practical Driving Test (PDT) within this period, you will need to reapply for the PDL.

The Appliction Process

Applying for a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) in Singapore is a straightforward process once you meet the requirements detailed above.

1. Apply for the PDL Online

  • Step 1: Visit the Singapore Police Force e-Services or download the Police@SG mobile app.

  • Step 2: Log in using Singpass or your FIN (for foreigners).

  • Step 3: Navigate to the Provisional Driving Licence application section.

  • Step 4: Fill in your personal details and provide the required information.

  • Step 5: Pay the PDL fee of S$25 via eNETS, Visa, or MasterCard.

3. Confirmation and Activation

Once the application is submitted and payment is successful, your e-PDL (electronic PDL) will be generated immediately. You can download a copy of the PDL from the portal, and it will be available in your driving school's system (if you're enrolled in one). You will now be eligible to start your practical driving lessons.

Using Your New Provisional Driving Licence

Driving with L-plates

Your vehicle must display L-plates (learner plates) on both the front and rear of the car while you are driving. These plates signal to other road users that you are a learner driver and should be given appropriate space on the road.

Driving Restrictions

No driving on expressways: Learner drivers with a PDL are not allowed to drive on expressways unless supervised as part of a driving school lesson.

Supervised driving: Learners can only practise driving in public areas under the supervision of a certified driving instructor, whether enrolled in a driving school or working with a private instructor.

Validity and Lessons

With your PDL, you are now allowed to book and attend practical driving lessons at any driving test centre or with a private driving instructor. These lessons will help you gain the necessary skills to pass the Practical Driving Test (PDT).

Insurance Coverage

Ensure that you have appropriate insurance coverage when driving a car as a learner. In most cases, if you're using a driving school vehicle, the car will already be insured for learner drivers. However, if you’re learning with a private instructor, it’s important to confirm that insurance covers your supervised driving.

Renewal and Expiry

When Does Your PDL Expire?

Your PDL automatically expires 2 years after it is issued. It is important to monitor the validity period closely, especially if you are nearing the end of the two-year mark. If your PDL expires before you complete your driving lessons or pass the required tests, you must renew it to continue driving.

How to Renew Your PDL

If your PDL is about to expire, you can renew it by following the same application process:

  • Step 1: Visit the Singapore Police Force e-Services portal or use the Police@SG mobile app.

  • Step 2: Log in with your Singpass and navigate to the PDL renewal section.

  • Step 3: Pay the renewal fee of S$25 via eNETS, Visa, or MasterCard.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your renewed PDL will be issued for another 2-year period.

What Happens If Your PDL Expires?

If your PDL expires and you do not renew it, you will not be allowed to continue driving on public roads under supervision. In this case, you must stop your lessons immediately and reapply for a new PDL before resuming any further driving practise.

Driving without a valid PDL can result in legal consequences, including fines or penalties.

Early Test Preparation

It is advisable to begin your driving lessons and prepare for the Practical Driving Test as soon as you receive your PDL to avoid the need for renewal. Planning ahead and ensuring you practise regularly will help ensure you pass your test within the 2-year validity period.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No, you are not allowed to drive on expressways unless taking part in a supervised driving lesson from an authorised driving school.

  • Since the PDL is issued electronically, you can re-access it by logging in to the Singapore Police Force e-Services portal or the Police@SG mobile app. There's no need to worry about losing a physical copy.

  • The cost of applying for or renewing a PDL is S$25.

  • The PDL is valid for 2 years from the date of issue. If you have not passed your driving test within that time, you will need to renew it.

  • No, the PDL is specific to Singapore and cannot be transferred for use in another country. If you move abroad, you will need to follow the driving licence procedures of that country.

  • Yes, learners applying for a Class 2B motorcycle licence must also apply for a PDL after passing their Basic Theory Test (BTT).

    The same conditions apply, and you are only allowed to ride in supervised environments such as training circuits until you pass your Practical Riding Test.