Planning to rent a car in Singapore? Driving gives you freedom to explore neighborhoods, coastal parks, and nearby Malacca-style shophouses outside the city. But Singapore’s road system, regulations, and tolling (ERP) are unique — and rental desks will want a clean, clear package of documents before handing over the keys. This guide is written for travelers who will rent a car using a foreign driver’s license and (where needed) an International Driving Permit (IDP). It’s structured for fast scanning, full of checklists, and backed by official and high-quality sources.

Quick snapshot — what you absolutely need to know

• Bring your original driver’s license and an IDP if your license is not in English or if the rental company requires it.

• Expect left-hand driving (cars are right-hand drive).

• Expressway speed limit max = 90 km/h, but many stretches are 80–90 km/h and some tunnels are 70–80 km/h — always follow posted signs.

• Singapore uses ERP (Electronic Road Pricing) — tolls are deducted automatically from an in-vehicle unit using a CashCard or OBU; rental cars are normally fitted and you pay via the CashCard in the car.

• Child restraints required for children under 1.35 m; no hand-held phone use while driving.

Who can drive in Singapore? Licenses, IDP, and residency rules

• Foreign drivers visiting Singapore:

  • If your foreign driving license is in English, you may drive for up to 12 months as a visitor. If it’s not in English, you should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official translation together with your original license.

• Foreigners resident in Singapore (less than 12 months):

  • Many rental companies explicitly require both a valid foreign license and an IDP when the visitor will be in Singapore for under 12 months — check your rental agreement.

Checklist: license & IDP

• Original driver’s license (signed, valid)

• International Driving Permit (if license not in English or requested)

• Passport (matches rental booking name)

• Credit card for deposit

Renting a car in Singapore: paperwork, age, and deposits

Common rental requirements

• Minimum age:

  • Typically 23–25 years old, depending on car category and company; some companies allow 21+ with an additional young-driver surcharge. Verify with your provider.

• Driving experience:

  • Many firms require at least one to two years’ driving experience on your license.

• Documents:

  • Passport, foreign license, IDP (if applicable), credit card in the primary driver’s name.

• Deposit / hold:

  • Expect a credit-card hold or deposit (S$500–S$1,500 typical), plus proof of insurance options. Get the exact amount in writing before pickup.

Rental cost ranges & providers (what to expect)

• Compact cars: S$50–S$120/day depending on season, insurance, and extras.

• Larger cars / SUVs / premium: significantly more; local and global brands (local firms, Sixt, Avis, Hertz) operate in Singapore. Always read insurance and kilometer policies. )

Checklist: rental booking

• Confirm IDP and license requirements with rental company

• Note deposit amount & accepted cards

• Check insurance excess (CDW/LDW) and your credit card coverage

• Reserve child seats if needed

How Singapore’s ERP (Electronic Road Pricing) affects drivers

• What is ERP?

  • Singapore’s ERP is an automated congestion-pricing toll system: gantries charge vehicles as they pass; charges are deducted automatically from an in-vehicle unit (IU or OBU) installed in the car. Rental cars normally have an IU and use a CashCard or are billed to the rental company.

• What to do as a renter:

  • Confirm whether the rental car’s IU has a CashCard inserted and how the ERP charges will be handled (some rentals bill you directly afterward). Top up the CashCard if needed, and keep receipts.

Quick ERP checklist

• Ask rental company: how are ERP charges billed?

• Check IU and CashCard in the vehicle

• Keep ERP receipts or confirm post-rental billing method

Singapore road rules & driver behavior (practical driving rules)

Use these lists to quickly absorb the rules you’ll be expected to follow.

Driving side & basics

• Drive on the left; vehicles are right-hand drive.

• Familiarize yourself with roundabouts, lane discipline, and short merge distances in urban areas.

Speed limits

• Expressways: maximum 90 km/h on open expressways; some sections (tunnels) are 70–80 km/h. Always follow posted signs.

• Major arterial roads: typically 60–70 km/h.

• Urban / built-up areas: standard 50 km/h unless otherwise signed.

• School zones: reduced limits (often 40 km/h during specified times).

Safety & equipment

• Seat belts: mandatory for all occupants.

• Child restraints: children under 1.35 m must use appropriate child seats or boosters. Book these with the rental company in advance.

• Phone use: holding a phone while driving is illegal — hands-free only.

• Drink driving: strict enforcement; BAC limit applies and penalties are severe. Don’t drink and drive.

Traffic enforcement

• Cameras and mobile enforcement are common; heavy fines and demerit points apply — obey limits and signals. Rental companies may pass on fines to the renter.

List: common on-road fines / pitfalls

• Speeding fines (camera and mobile)

• Illegal parking / parking coupons expired

• Using mobile phone while driving

• Not wearing seat belts

• Failing to use child restraints

Parking, tolls, and navigating the city

Parking

• Use official parking bays; pay via Parking.sg app, Pay stations, or on-street pay machines.

• Illegal or obstructive parking can lead to fines or towing; keep the parking slip/receipt until you return the vehicle.

ERP & tolling recap

• ERP gantries are mostly on expressways and roads approaching the city; charges vary by time and location. Confirm IU and CashCard arrangement when you pick up the car.

Navigation tips

• Singapore uses clear English signage. Use GPS or offline maps; store your navigation app hands-free before driving. Avoid peak commute times if possible

List: parking & navigation checklist

• Install Parking.sg or confirm payment method

• Check IU/CashCard for ERP

• Use a phone mount and set routes before moving

• Avoid restricted zones and loading bays

Family travel: child seats, boosters, and safety

• Legal rules:

  • Children under 1.35 m must use a child restraint appropriate to height/weight; rental companies can supply child seats if requested. Book early — supplies are limited in peak seasons.

• Tips:

  • Bring your own travel booster or lightweight seat if you have a particular preference.

  • Always confirm that the child seat meets EU or i-Size (R129) / R44 safety standards where applicable.

Family checklist

• Reserve child seat with rental company

• Carry child weight/height info to confirm correct seat

• Inspect and install seat properly before driving

Cross-border drives (Singapore ↔ Malaysia)

• Crossing into Malaysia:

  • Driving into Malaysia from Singapore is possible but requires rental company approval and insurance coverage for cross-border travel. Special documentation and approval may be required for the vehicle and driver. Get explicit written permission and cross-border instructions from your rental company before attempting.

• Tips:

  • Expect immigration/border checks; plan for traffic at the Woodlands/Checkpoint. Check Malaysia’s vehicle entry rules and Insurance requirements.

Money-saving & safety strategies for renters

Insurance

• Check if your personal credit card provides Car Damage / CDW coverage and what limitations apply. If not covered, consider purchasing the rental company’s Super CDW / Zero Excess for peace of mind.

Fuel policy

• Most rentals require you to return the car with the same fuel level as pickup. Top up before return to avoid refueling charges. Fuel costs are relatively high in Singapore.

Smaller car = easier parking

• Singapore’s parking and narrow lanes make compact cars easier and cheaper to park. If you’re mostly exploring the city, consider whether a rental is worth the cost vs. using MRT and taxis.

List: smart renter checklist

• Confirm insurance details & excess

• Take photos of the car at pickup and drop-off

• Note fuel policy and ERP billing arrangement

• Keep all rental paperwork until final bill is settled

Common questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I drive in Singapore with a foreign license only?

• A: Yes, if your license is in English you can drive for up to 12 months as a visitor. If not in English, bring an IDP or certified translation. Always check your rental company’s policy — many require an IDP regardless.

Q: Do I need an IDP from my home country?

• A: If your license is not in English or the rental company requests it, yes. Apply for your IDP here.

Q: How does ERP billing work for rental cars?

• A: The in-vehicle unit (IU/OBU) communicates with ERP gantries and charges are deducted from the CashCard in the vehicle; rental firms either provide a topped-up CashCard or will bill charges to you after return. Confirm this when you collect the car.

Q: What is the legal drink-drive limit?

• A: Singapore enforces strict drink-driving rules with tests for blood alcohol concentration; penalties are severe. Don’t drink and drive.

Short pre-departure checklist (print & bring)

• Original driver’s license (valid)

• International Driving Permit (if required)

• Passport and travel documents

• Credit card for deposit and payment

• Insurance cards / credit card coverage evidence

• Child seat reservation (if applicable)

• Navigation app + phone mount

• Rental confirmation, T&Cs, ERP billing arrangement

How to Obtain an IDP

Applying for an International Driver's Permit (IDP) is a straightforward process that allows you to legally drive in foreign countries. Here's how you can obtain one:

• Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining an International Driver's Permit. Requirements may but the most important one is that you must have your national or local driver's license issued by your county or state of origin, and it should be valid.

• Complete Application: Obtain the necessary application form from following the next link: https://internationalpermit.com/pages/apply-for-the-international-driving-permit

• Pay Fees: Pay the required fees for processing your IDL application. Fees may vary depending on the issuing authority and processing time.

• Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with any supporting documents following their specific instructions.

• Receive IDP: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your International Driver's License.

Remember to carry both your international driving permit and your original driver's license whenever you're behind the wheel. Double-check that your details match those on your valid driver's license to avoid any discrepancies. Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to the licensing authority along with any applicable fees.

BUY NOW!

Cost of an International Driver's License

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's License are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 39,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 54,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 69,99

USA SHIPPING
USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 29.99

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDP, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://www.internationalpermit.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-drivers-document

Final tips — drive smart, stay legal, enjoy Singapore

• Call your rental company before you fly to confirm IDP needs, deposit, insurance, and ERP billing practices. Written confirmation prevents surprises.

• Choose a compact car for easier parking and lower costs unless you need space for a family or lots of luggage.

• Use public transport for city sightseeing: Singapore’s MRT and buses are faster and cheaper in the CBD; drive for out-of-town trips, nature spots, and cross-border excursions (with permission).

• Be predictable and polite: use indicators, stay in your lane, and expect strict enforcement — Singapore has very low tolerance for risky driving.

Safe travels — and enjoy the ride!