Classes 2B/2 singapore license conversion from foreign rider license thread...

[taxico]

here's the link to the official SPF website on what documents you'll need, where to go, how much to pay, etc:

http://driving-in-singapore.spf.gov....conversion.htm

to convert to a singapore class 2B/2 license, you will need to hold a VALID motorcycle endorsement on your foreign license: eg, being able to ride up to 125cc motorcycles or 50cc mopeds in UK on a motor car endorsement DOES NOT COUNT as a "valid motorcycle endorsement".

your motorcycle license MUST ALSO have been obtained through a series of tests ("paid for" licenses are not valid).

you DO NOT need to sit for the "Riding Theory Test," only the Basic Theory Test (and of course, you must pass it...).

i have omitted class 2A as they are almost never given out to conversion applicants - it's usually class 2B or class 2.

so this follows on to: how can you, a singaporean foreign license holder, obtain a full class 2? (foreigners/PRs, please read on...)

you need AT LEAST THREE (3) YEARS OF RIDING EXPERIENCE FROM THE DAY YOU PASS YOUR FULL MOTORCYCLE LICENSE TEST outside of singapore! [THIS SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN CHANGED FROM THREE (3) TO ONLY ONE (1) YEAR]

you ALSO need to bring proof of OWNERSHIP for high-capacity motorcycle(s). this will be in the form of 1) insurance papers and/or 2) vehicle registration papers.

they need to be owned by YOU (stated on the above-mentioned paperwork) for a similar period too.

if you are able to furnish the above items, you should have no problems getting a full class 2.

if you are a foreigner/PR with less than 2 years of riding experience, please note your valid unrestricted foreign motorcycle license will allow you to ride any motorcycle in singapore for up to 1 year.

you should buy and own a motorcycle that is MORE THAN 400cc. after a period of 12 months, when you have to convert your foreign license to a local one, bring proof of insurance for your >400cc motorbike along and you should have no problems getting a full class 2.

do note: if you're denied a full class 2 (for reasons out of your control, despite complying with the above), you DON'T HAVE TO PROCEED with the application (not set in stone until payment made). you can simply try again at another TP counter (Ubi, Bt Batok or Ang Mo Kio).

some people have had their license for less than 3 years and got a full class 2 - this is usually an exception to the rule, and you should assume you're unlikely to be the exception.

also, if you already hold a valid singapore license (eg, class 3), conversion is FREE and instantaneous! a class 2B/2 endorsement will added on as a sticker laminate to your existing license.

i hope this helps all future enquiries over motorcycle conversions as well as "how can i get full class 2???" posts...

i don't work for the govt: the above info has been my experience from converting car and motorcycle licenses separately in the past 12 months. i've spoken to many TP counter ladies as well as a senior policy maker, in desperate hopes to get a full class 2 license... feel free to add on your thoughts/opinions/advice here.

[CoolieND]

Good on you, this is quite comprehensive! Did quite a bit of legwork here. Seems like one of the more frequently questions asked here.


Just two questions I thought might clarify better for some:

i have omitted class 2A as they are almost never given out to conversion applicants - it's usually class 2B or class 2.

So if you owned something in the 200-400 range outside Singapore, they'll probably give you a 2B instead of doing a 2A conversion?

you should buy and own a motorcycle that is MORE THAN 400cc. after a period of 12 months, when you have to convert your foreign license to a local one, bring proof of insurance for your >400cc motorbike along and you should have no problems getting a full class 2.

The officers said this? I'm only asking, as I've read a few people saying they had to sell their bike after not getting the Cl.2 license...

Are these all rules, or just a implicit guidelines that the officers generally follow?

do note: if you're denied a full class 2 (for reasons out of your control, despite complying with the above), you DON'T HAVE TO PROCEED with the application (not set in stone until payment made). you can simply try again at another TP counter (Ubi, Bt Batok or Ang Mo Kio).

Never knew that's the case. I guess if all else fails, eh?

Cheers!

[mdjww]

HaHA! I have already seen the great thing!!!

[vespa tank]

Thanks for the info. So if i have my UK CBT and i own a 124cc Vespa, is it worth me bring this with me if i move to Singapore. Or will i need to start from the beginning to be licensed to ride this. Also is there significant import duties on bringing a bike with you to Singapore.

Thanks

[taxico]

sorry for the late reply. i've been overseas and working hard at my job... (moving back to singapore in november)!

So if you owned something in the 200-400 range outside Singapore, they'll probably give you a 2B instead of doing a 2A conversion?

The officers said this? I'm only asking, as I've read a few people saying they had to sell their bike after not getting the Cl.2 license...

Are these all rules, or just a implicit guidelines that the officers generally follow?

from what i have gone through: the license granted for a singaporean conversion depends on the number of years of FULL m/c license, with the ownership of big bikes being a backup for the rider's source of experience.

in a non-singaporean's case, the TP counter staff are more likely to approve a class 2 conversion because of the experience chalked up in singapore during the 12 months of riding on a big bike, subject to the foreign license being valid.

i do not know of any PRs who have come to singapore, owned, insured and rode a big bike in singapore for a year, then been unable to convert to a full class 2...

IMO, i believe for those who had to sell their bikes, it was because there were inherent problems with their foreign license... because the PR/permit holders possibly had no prior contact with TP until conversion time, and they had no clue their licenses were not valid for conversion (look to the post above this for an eg).

from what i went through, i believe these are general guidelines and subjected to regular government audits.

[taxico]

Thanks for the info. So if i have my UK CBT and i own a 124cc Vespa, is it worth me bring this with me if i move to Singapore. Or will i need to start from the beginning to be licensed to ride this. Also is there significant import duties on bringing a bike with you to Singapore.

a CBT is insufficient for you to convert into a m/c license in singapore. you will need to go through the stages (provisional, etc) and obtain a full motorcycle license prior to converting to a class 2B in singapore.

i don't believe a 125cc vespa should be imported into singapore. the rare/big bikes are worth bringing in for personal use, but i think you should check this link out... and do your sums... to see if it's worth the trouble!

http://f800gsrider.blogspot.com/2009...rom-uk-to.html

also, please note that only bikes younger than 3 years old (of original/first registration) can be legally registered in singapore for on-road use.

[taxico]

i got a little vespa to ride around this past june when i was in singapore for a few weeks so i can scoot around and do my errands.

it dawned on me almost immediately that riding in singapore roads is more hazardous, vulnerable and frightening than i previously assumed (my first ride was during evening rush hour).

a few times because of cars/taxis and their inconsiderate drivers, i nearly got into accidents despite (previously) thinking i'm quite an experienced rider...

i realized if i my first ride in singapore was on a powerful sportbike, i will get into an accident rather sooner than later, because i do no have prior local experience/training on a motorcycle.

it is extremely different from my driving experience in singapore AND my riding experience overseas (on the opposite side of the road and the human behavior, mannerisms and anticipations all differ).

just tonight, i took some time to look through the DRIVING CENTRE sub-forum and i realized that if i were to take a 2B exam tomorrow, i'll probably fail.

for those who value their lives, going through lessons in the local driving centers might just save your life when the situation gets hairy... don't take short cuts.

for those who've recently converted, or are about to convert their license... PLEASE BE CAREFUL when you're on local roads and PLEASE RIDE DEFENSIVELY!

safe and happy riding everyone.

[cliclicy]

Great work .. really informative .. and thanks a lot for sharing ..

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[stagispi]

I accept with information: in a non-singaporean's case, the TP counter staff are more likely to approve a class 2 conversion because of the experience chalked up in singapore during the 12 months of riding on a big bike, subject to the foreign license being valid.
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[SunnyBhai]

Hello there,

Can anybody tell me how much time will I have to wait for a BTT test? Say if I apply for a BTT for my license conversion, will I be allowed to take the test immediately or do I have to wait say 2/3 weeks before I can take the test?

Is there any course material/books to read through for BTT or is it just common sense?

[IMAMEMOUSIA]

mine are tacked to the bulletin board above my computer, for no other reason than to make me feel businesslike. I think that if I had to have them on display someplace, Id probably stick them in frames which seems like a really common thing to do.

dont you feel so official now that you have your license? how exciting

[Roy Chan]

Hi, pls enlighten me .
I am Malaysian and currently riding 250cc for almost 2 years.
Assume that I bought a class 2 bike in Singapore using International Driving Permit.
After certain time frame ( 1 year etc ) am I possible to convert my License into a Class 2Singapore license with only Social Visit Pass ?

[taxico]

Can anybody tell me how much time will I have to wait for a BTT test?

Say if I apply for a BTT for my license conversion, will I be allowed to take the test immediately or do I have to wait say 2/3 weeks before I can take the test?

Is there any course material/books to read through for BTT or is it just common sense?

the BTT wait time varies. no one can tell you with certainty how long you have to wait. you will have to check with the differing driving centres...

you have to take your BTT first and pass it, before you can apply for a foreign license conversion.

i believe you can apply for the conversion the same day that you've passed your BTT (you'll get a paper driving license)!

thinking it was about common sense, i took my first few BTTs without studying (this was during my NS days).. and failed them all.

i recommend buying a guide book from a book shop (eg, popular) and studying it before your test... more than anything else, it will help with local driving rules.

even after you've got your local license, you can keep it as a reference when you're unsure about certain local driving behavior/questions.

(remember, if you've converted your license, it's unlikely you have had a driving instructor for a few months that will teach you and answer such questions!)

[taxico]

the SPF's License Conversion page is no available as i write this post, so i thought i will repost the info here (in case their website never gets restored):

------------

Conversion of Foreign Driving Licence

General Guidelines

Any person holding a licence to drive a particular class of motor vehicle by the competent authority of a country other than Singapore , may apply for conversion to a Singapore driving licence to drive the equivalent class of motor vehicle. This is provided that the particular class of licence is not granted automatically without the need of test and on the merit of attaining of another licence, example a motorcycle licence granted with class 3 licence without going through a test that is practised in some countries.

Singaporeans and Permanent Residents

Singaporeans and Permanent Residents may only drive in Singapore with a Singapore licence. They have to seek conversion of their foreign driving licence upon returning to Singapore and upon obtaining PR status respectively.

Singaporeans and Permanent Residents may convert a foreign driving licence if they can show proof that they have reason to be staying in a foreign country for a period of 1 year or more due to study or work, and have a total stay of 6 months within the one year period.

New PRs who already have a 5-year Singapore driving licence will have to replace it with a lifetime driving licence that reflects their new NRIC number.

Foreigners

A foreigner above 18 years of age and holding a Work Pass/Dependent Pass/Student Pass may drive in Singapore with a valid class 3, 3A or 2B foreign licence, for a period of not more than 12 months. A Singapore driving licence is required after 12 months. Those on short term social visit may drive with their foreign licence for up to 12 months each time they enter into Singapore . For licence not written in English language, an International Driving Permit or translation is required as explained below.

Please note that Work Permit holders are not allowed to drive for work-related purposes unless the occupation stated in the Work Permit is as a "Driver".
S pass holders are allowed to drive for work-related purposes provided his/her occupation as stated in the S pass requires him/her to do so. Please note that foreign drivers must have a valid driving license and comply with traffic regulations.

For more information on Work Pass restrictions, please visit http://www.mom.gov.sg/publish/mompor...work_pass.html or you can call MOM at 64385122.

Classes of driving licence that may be converted

Foreign licence conversion is only granted for class 2B and class 3 qualified driving licences. Learner driving licence may not be converted.

Those who wish to obtain a class 4 and/or class 5 licence need to go through training and a prescribed practical test before they can obtain the Singapore class 4 or 5 licence. No direct conversion is granted for these heavy vehicle licences.

Conversion for a higher capacity or open category motorcycle licence is normally not granted unless there are documentary proof of training, testing, ownership of bigger motorcycle and insurance policy indicating that you have gone through proper training and testing regime and have had at least one year riding experience on the road.

Conversion procedure

In order to convert your foreign licence to a Singapore driving licence, you are required to pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT). Overseas theory test results are not admissible for consideration.

You may book for a BTT in person at any of the 3 driving schools. On passing the BTT you may then proceed to apply for conversion at the Traffic Police Driving Test Center counters in person, with the relevant documents. The 3 Traffic Police Driving Test Centers are co-located with the 3 driving schools. Their addresses are:

* Ang Mo Kio Driving Test Centre, level 3, co-located with the Singapore Safety Driving Centre ( http://www.ssdcl.com.sg/ ) at 3 Ang Mio Kio St 62 Industrial Park 3 Singapore 569139.
* Bukit Batok Driving Test Centre, level 2, co-located with the Bukit Batok Driving Centre ( http://www.bbdc.sg ) at 815 Bukit Batok West Ave 5 Singapore 659085.
* Kampong Ubi Test Centre, level 2, co-located with ComfortDelgro Driving Centre ( http://www.cdc.com.sg/users/homepage/index.asp ) at 205, Ubi Ave 4 Singapore 408805.

Please bring along the following documents where applicable, when applying for conversion of licence:

*
Original and a photocopy of your passport and NRIC/Entry Permit/Employment Pass/Dependant Pass/Social Visit Pass/Work Permit
*
Original and a photocopy of your valid Qualified Foreign Driving Licence
*
Processing fee of $50 (Cashcard and NETS payment Only)
*
One matt finish passport-size colour photograph with white background, eyes looking straight and both ears and eyebrow visible in the photograph. There should be no headgear worn unless normally worn for religious purpose, and glasses worn should not be tinted.
*
For Malaysian licence holders, an extract from JPJ Malaysia showing information of your driving record and licence information (obtained not more than 6 months before date of conversion)
*
For Singaporeans studying overseas for one year or more, please produce proof of stay in the country, e.g. educational transcripts or Letter of Acceptance by the educational institution and the relevant student visa in the passport.
*
For Singaporeans employed overseas for one year or more, please produce Income Tax Returns or supporting documents from employers and the relevant employment visa in the passport.

Driving licence not in English language

For a foreign driving licence that is not in English language, you are required to have an International Driving Permit in addition to the foreign driving licence. If an International Driving Permit is not available, an official translation of your driving licence in English is required. You may obtain translation from the relevant Embassy, High Commission, the Singapore Subordinate Court or the Singapore High Court. Translation is not required for licence issued by Brunei , Indonesia and Malaysia .

Foreign Driving licence that expires with the expiry of a foreign visa

If you hold a driving licence that expires with the expiry of a foreign visa, you are required to obtain a written extract from the licence issuing authority of the country that your licence was issued. The extract should show the passing date, date of issue of your licence, the class of licence attained and your driving record.

You have to register for the Basic Theory Test within 3 months from the date you return to Singapore so that your conversion may be granted subsequently.

Additional Documents

Where the authenticity of a driving licence is in question, you may be asked to produce other documents for further verification. Such documents may include but not limited to International Driving Permit and driving licence extract from the licence issuing authority that issued your licence and endorsed by a notary public.

Drivers of age 65 and above

If you are 65 years old and above, you need to be certified fit to drive by a Singapore registered medical practitioner. The prescribed form for the medical certification can be obtained at all Traffic Police Driving Test Centre counters. Application for conversion has to be accompanied by a favourable medical report that is complete.

Drivers with special medical condition or physical disability

If you have an existing medical condition or physical disability that may render you unfit to drive in Singapore under our law, you will be asked to obtain a confirmation of your fitness to drive at any of the hospitals below.

(1) Alexandra Hospital

(2) Changi General Hospital
(3) KK Women's and Children's Hospital

(4) National University Hospital
(5) Singapore National Eye Centre

(6) Singapore General Hospital
(7) Tan Tock SengHospital

(8) National Cancer Centre
(9) National Dental Centre

(10) National Heart Centre
(11) National Neuroscience Institute

(12) National Skin Centre
(13) Institute of Mental Health/Woodbridge Hospital

You may be required to undergo further assessment by our driving testers to confirm that you are fit to drive in Singapore .

Displaying of P-plate

You are required to display the P-plate sign on your vehicle if the issue date of your foreign licence is less than 1 year. You may stop displaying it after the 1 year period like new Singapore licence holders.

Drivers Improvement Point System (DIPS)

In the form that you submitted during the application for conversion of your foreign licence, you have affirmed that you have been informed that your licence will be revoked if you accumulate more than 12 demerit points within a 12 months period from the date of issue of your licence.

You will have to sit for all the prescribed driving theory and practical tests one year after the revocation in order to regain a new driving licence.

------

n/b: SSDC will be moving to Woodlands sometime in the future, so please check their website for their future/new address as i might not be around to update this.

also, i have clarified with TP via email that once you have had your FULL foreign license for a minimum of 12 months, there is no need to display "P" plate. ie:

after having a full foreign license for 9 months overseas, a singaporean returns home to convert the license, he/she needs to display P plate for only 3 months (total of 12 months)...

...but until the singapore license is 12 months old, i recommend having your foreign license handy just in case TP/SPF/LTA officer wants to check/make your life difficult.

[Rod Stroker]

you DO NOT need to sit for the "Riding Theory Test," only the Basic Theory Test (and of course, you must pass it...).

also, if you already hold a valid singapore license (eg, class 3), conversion is FREE and instantaneous! a class 2B/2 endorsement will added on as a sticker laminate to your existing license.

I sat the BTT back in Nov08 in order to convert my Oz car license to a local license. I passed the BTT on the first attempt so I've had my Class 3 license here now for over a year.
I now want to get my bike license here as well, so given that I've already passed the BTT and have held a Class 3 license for over a year, are you saying I should be able to covert to at least a class 2B instantaneously? I have riding experience from overseas but no bike license.

When I called the SSDC they told me that I basically had to start from the bottom, do all the classroom theory, riding theory, lessons, tests, etc, which I thought was a ridiculous waste of money and time. Surely there must be an "express" process where if I can adequately demonstrate riding knowledge and experience then I shouldn't need to complete the whole process?
When I asked them this they said that they don't make the rules, it's all done by the SPF.
Then I thought to myself, surely all these foreign workers/laborers here from Indo, Malaysia, Bangladesh, etc, who hoon around on scooters haven't completed all the theoretical and practical tests in order to ride here? There must be an easier way?

For now I've given up on the bike license - just the first step of the process being bike theory lessons alone takes 700 minutes! I can't justify spending 12 hours re-learning and re-paying for info that I already know.
http://www.ssdcl.com.sg/course-motorcar-2b.asp

On another note, I've read somewhere that Piaggio MP3 trikes can be ridden on a normal car license, bike license not necessary. Anyone know if this is true for Singapore? I've rang a couple of dealers here and they don't seem to think it's true, as effectively it is still a bike rather than a car, so a bike license would still be needed.

Thanks.

[taxico]

I sat the BTT back in Nov08 in order to convert my Oz car license to a local license. I passed the BTT on the first attempt so I've had my Class 3 license here now for over a year.
I now want to get my bike license here as well, so given that I've already passed the BTT and have held a Class 3 license for over a year, are you saying I should be able to covert to at least a class 2B instantaneously?

I have riding experience from overseas but no bike license.

When I called the SSDC they told me that I basically had to start from the bottom, do all the classroom theory, riding theory, lessons, tests, etc, which I thought was a ridiculous waste of money and time.

Surely there must be an "express" process where if I can adequately demonstrate riding knowledge and experience then I shouldn't need to complete the whole process?

When I asked them this they said that they don't make the rules, it's all done by the SPF.

Then I thought to myself, surely all these foreign workers/laborers here from Indo, Malaysia, Bangladesh, etc, who hoon around on scooters haven't completed all the theoretical and practical tests in order to ride here?

There must be an easier way?

For now I've given up on the bike license - just the first step of the process being bike theory lessons alone takes 700 minutes! I can't justify spending 12 hours re-learning and re-paying for info that I already know.

On another note, I've read somewhere that Piaggio MP3 trikes can be ridden on a normal car license, bike license not necessary. Anyone know if this is true for Singapore? I've rang a couple of dealers here and they don't seem to think it's true, as effectively it is still a bike rather than a car, so a bike license would still be needed.

first, no offense is meant with this reply. second, perhaps i should have been clearer:

if you had first obtained your AU car license, came to singapore, converted car license, then subsequently obtained your AU bike (unrestricted/full) license (and fulfilled some other conditions), you can then instantaneously get a 2B/2 endorsement on your current license in singapore upon application.

what i meant was that: in such a scenario, you do not need to take the RTT - your previous car BTT will suffice (hence the "instant" comment).

as you do not have a full bike license, you have to start from scratch in singapore.

driving overseas differs from driving in singapore immensely - you may or may not have realized this from your one year of driving around in singapore. riding a motorcycle is even more different.

SSDC is right - there is no "short cut" route towards your bike license. there's a reason why the singapore government is so strict with regards to motorcycle ownership/licensing. too many riders die on our roads... even experienced ones; not necessarily through the rider's action/inaction even!

as for the foreign workers you mentioned that are riding in singapore, they are probably:

riding on a foreign bike with a foreign license (eg, malaysian bike + malaysian license), or

have converted their pre-existing foreign license (through the proper SPF/TP process) to a singapore license, or

have been riding in singapore for less than 12 months at a stretch on a pre-existing foreign motorcycle license.

as long as the bike is singapore-registered, there is a legal requirement for each licensed rider to be insured for it. further, one would have been required to pass the RTT/BTT prior to any conversion, whatever the nationality.

whatever the case - you differ from them as you have no motorcycle license of any kind, whatsoever. if experience is sufficient, perhaps even more foreign "hoons" would be on motorcycles in singapore...

your alternative is to get your australian bike license, fulfill the requirements for conversion before applying to do so. i do not recommend you take this step for reasons i've outlined in a few prior posts.

some of the lessons and skills the local riding centre imparts to you is to help you not get killed on the road by careless and inconsiderate singapore drivers. for a variety of reasons, you will rarely see a cager giving way to a motorcyclist or being patient to them.

if you are as experienced as you say you are, you will probably fly through the practical stages of your course. however should you think your life is worth less than the time required to earn a bike license in singapore, i feel it may be wise to stick to a motor car.

as for the piaggio mp3 125/250/400/fuoco, you need a bike license in the proper class to ride them. they are not designated as a motor car in singapore.

for certain european countries, this is not the case (akin to how the BMW C1 bike does not require the rider to wear a helmet in some countries, but you still need to wear it when riding a C1 in singapore).

[Alinghi]

Hey Bikers!

Does anybody know if I can get insurance for a bike for lets say 3months when I'm in Singapore as tourist only?

I read that it's not really possible to rent a motorbike in Singapore so I would consider to buy one there... Looking for a class 2 since I have unlimited motorbike licence at home...

Cheers

[zyrofillica]

i guess it is possible. u do still pay for a year but they will rebate your the unused portion of the insurance when you cancel the insurance.

Ban hock Hin rents out motorcycles. check them out when you are in singapore. (pricey though)

[vdruk]

taxico: "if you are a foreigner/PR with less than 2 years of riding experience, please note your valid unrestricted foreign motorcycle license will allow you to ride any motorcycle in singapore for up to 1 year."

I can not found any official information which allow/forbid drive any bike with unrestricted foreign driving license. Can u explain?

I'm foreigner with Work Permit staying here 2 months and I have International Driving Permit with class A (all bikes). Can I ride CB400 (2A) with my license?

[taxico]

I can not found any official information which allow/forbid drive any bike with unrestricted foreign driving license. Can u explain?

I'm foreigner with Work Permit staying here 2 months and I have International Driving Permit with class A (all bikes). Can I ride CB400 (2A) with my license?

hi there vdruk,

perhaps you should re-read post #14 in this thread... it is not too far above your post. or you can click:

http://www.singaporebikes.com/forums...3&postcount=14

Foreigners

A foreigner above 18 years of age and holding a Work Pass/Dependent Pass/Student Pass may drive in Singapore with a valid class 3, 3A or 2B foreign licence, for a period of not more than 12 months. A Singapore driving licence is required after 12 months.

For licence not written in English language, an International Driving Permit or translation is required as explained below.

Please note that Work Permit holders are not allowed to drive for work-related purposes unless the occupation stated in the Work Permit is as a "Driver".

Driving licence not in English language

For a foreign driving licence that is not in English language, you are required to have an International Driving Permit in addition to the foreign driving licence.

If an International Driving Permit is not available, an official translation of your driving licence in English is required. You may obtain translation from the relevant Embassy, High Commission, the Singapore Subordinate Court or the Singapore High Court.

Translation is not required for licence issued by Brunei , Indonesia and Malaysia.

if you require actual legal "proof", please read through the Road Traffic Act (Part 2, Licensing of Drivers):

http://statutes.agc.gov.sg/non_versi...hole&doctitle=

specifically SS 38(1):

Subject to the provisions of this Act, it shall be lawful for a person resident outside Singapore who is temporarily in Singapore and who holds a valid foreign driving licence to drive in Singapore during a period of 12 months from the date of his last entry into Singapore a motor vehicle of the class or description which the foreign driving licence authorises him to drive, notwithstanding that he does not hold a driving licence granted under this Part.

i hope this helps!

[harlot]

Hey!

thanks for the extensive info.

Just curious, you mentioned that a Singaporean with a foreign license will need THREE years riding and bike ownership o a high cc bike before being able to convert to class 2?

I went to the TP website and it states that you need to ride for ONE year before being able to convert to class 2. and need to produce evidence of ownership of a big bike.

I also called up the TP and the lady on the hotline told me something contradictory to the website, she said as long as you go to a valid board to get your license, and then own a high CC bike for at JUST SIX months, you should be able to convert to a class 2 license.

Can someone advice on this?

I need to be sure about this as I'm planning to go to California for my masters, but will only be spending 2 years there. So plus the time taken to get my license, I might only own an ride a bike for 1 year plus. Planning to get a 883 or 1200 Harley sportsster though!

Thanks guys! Anyone who knows more info, or has had experience, please share with us all!

[Mazzucatto]

Reading vdruk post, I get confused as well. So, I have a Employment Pass here in Singapore and a Brazilian International License (that allows me to ride all CCs).

The question is: within the 12 months, can I ride bikes bigger than 400cc for example? Then I can take the Basic Theory Test and convert my license to Singapore (hopefully for a Class 2)? Is that right?

In the post #14 there is a statement that says:

"A foreigner above 18 years of age and holding a Work Pass/Dependent Pass/Student Pass may drive in Singapore with a valid class 3, 3A or 2B foreign licence, for a period of not more than 12 months. A Singapore driving licence is required after 12 months."

Does it mean that I can drive only 2B class motorbikes? I called the Traffic police and even they were not very clear about it.

I'm thinking on buying a Harley or other big bike....

[taxico]

Just curious, you mentioned that a Singaporean with a foreign license will need THREE years riding and bike ownership o a high cc bike before being able to convert to class 2?

I went to the TP website and it states that you need to ride for ONE year before being able to convert to class 2. and need to produce evidence of ownership of a big bike.

I also called up the TP and the lady on the hotline told me something contradictory to the website, she said as long as you go to a valid board to get your license, and then own a high CC bike for at JUST SIX months, you should be able to convert to a class 2 license.

Can someone advice on this?

I need to be sure about this as I'm planning to go to California for my masters, but will only be spending 2 years there. So plus the time taken to get my license, I might only own an ride a bike for 1 year plus. Planning to get a 883 or 1200 Harley sportsster though!

i went through the whole conversion process at 3 different driving centres... trying to get a full class 2.

i was using 125 and 250cc bikes on restricted licenses for a long long time in 2 countries simply (US & NZ) because i couldn't be bothered to take the full test.

when i returned (i'm not a young punk), i had difficulty getting a full class 2 license because many of them deemed i have not been riding a big CC bike for long enough... or that i may have been riding for a long time, but i did not do so on a full license.

the staff at the TP counter are the ones who ultimately make the decision on what class you get. you need to prove to them you are worthy of a full class 2.

there is no 2A; only 2B or 2.

i can tell you now: there is NO GUARANTEED conversion to class 2 (only 2B), but with 3 years as a licensed rider and ownership of a big bike will mean a very very HIGH LIKELIHOOD of getting a full class 2.


other than what i have written prior, i have no further advice for you except to get your full unrestricted motorcycle license ASAP and own a big capacity bike as soon as you're finished with MSF. however, proceed at your own risk/will (big bikes = needs taming/experience).

[taxico]

Reading vdruk post, I get confused as well. So, I have a Employment Pass here in Singapore and a Brazilian International License (that allows me to ride all CCs).

EP + Brazillian motorcycle license + translated license/IDP + SINGAPORE MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE = 12 months of riding any motorcycle in singapore

after a 12 month stay in singapore, you bring all the above documents to the TP (traffic police) counter and hopefully get a full class 2 conversion.

[Rich_R]

Hi

I've arrived in Singapore 2 weeks ago. I have a full UK bike license and have 3.5 years riding experience on bikes above 600cc.

Question is, I am better off buying a 600cc+ bike now, ride it for 12 months, then try convert it too a Class 2 or would I have a good chance of getting a class 2 now? (I can prove ownership and experience).

Thanks

[taxico]

I've arrived in Singapore 2 weeks ago. I have a full UK bike license and have 3.5 years riding experience on bikes above 600cc.

Question is, I am better off buying a 600cc+ bike now, ride it for 12 months, then try convert it too a Class 2 or would I have a good chance of getting a class 2 now? (I can prove ownership and experience).

you are better off riding for 12 months on a 600cc+ bike and converting after that, IMO.

whatever the case, just make sure all your paper work is in place and you have local insurance to ride your bike.

[shujayath]

Hi There

I hold an Indian Driving Licence with more than 6 years experience in open class vehicles... I had contacted the traffic police (Singapore) over the phone and explained the above situation and asked if I could ride a "Class 2" bike and the they said YES I can for the first year... now I have passed my BTT and when went to the counter of TP to convert my Licence to CLass 2... I was said I cannot obtain a Class 2 and I cannot ride a Class 2 Bike even in the first year in Singapore...

Can you suggest a way to get Class 2 conversion .... and can I show a proof of driving a Class 2 in Singapore ? is this legal to Drive class 2 with foreign Licence ?

Thanks Guys

[Alinghi]

i guess it is possible. u do still pay for a year but they will rebate your the unused portion of the insurance when you cancel the insurance.

Ban hock Hin rents out motorcycles. check them out when you are in singapore. (pricey though)

Dam'n, now I'm here, but can't find an insurance which would insure me when I'm only on social visitor pass. So sad, I would have loved to drive a bike through Singapore's streets...

[bob.satan]

I got my licence converted last Monday.

I did the BTT at 10:30 and had everything converted by 11.

I have a full Australian licence and have been in Singapore for 18 months.

The back of the Australian licence showed that my power restriction was lifted in Feb 2007. My wife was with me and her power restriction was lifted in May 2008.

Both of us got class 2, 2a and 2b licences.

There was no need to show insurance documents, what I had ridden before or anything like that. Just the full licence.

[ping_pong]

hi bros,

i have a question hope bros can enlighten me.
im a vietnamese spore PR, been here for 6 years (4 years study and 2 years working), holding a vietnamese driving license for motorbike. now i want to convert it to spore license. am i able to do so, or do i have to attend the courses and take both basic theory and practical tests?

thanks bros...

[ql88]

I got my licence converted last Monday.

I did the BTT at 10:30 and had everything converted by 11.

I have a full Australian licence and have been in Singapore for 18 months.

The back of the Australian licence showed that my power restriction was lifted in Feb 2007. My wife was with me and her power restriction was lifted in May 2008.

Both of us got class 2, 2a and 2b licences.

There was no need to show insurance documents, what I had ridden before or anything like that. Just the full licence.

Hi, may i asked if your Australian license was class R? I've just completed class R in Australia and am not sure if i could convert it to class 2 back in Singapore.

[martin_jian]

i got a class 2B license converted from msia licence,and now if i want to go for class 2A license, do i still need to go through colour blindness test? please enlighten me... thanks...

[taxico]

I got my licence converted last Monday.

I did the BTT at 10:30 and had everything converted by 11.

I have a full Australian licence and have been in Singapore for 18 months.

The back of the Australian licence showed that my power restriction was lifted in Feb 2007. My wife was with me and her power restriction was lifted in May 2008.

Both of us got class 2, 2a and 2b licences.

There was no need to show insurance documents, what I had ridden before or anything like that. Just the full licence.

are you singaporean or non-singaporean? if you're non-singaporean, the full license itself may suffice. if you're singaporean, you were probably lucky OR not a young chap.

[taxico]

hi bros,

i have a question hope bros can enlighten me.
im a vietnamese spore PR, been here for 6 years (4 years study and 2 years working), holding a vietnamese driving license for motorbike. now i want to convert it to spore license. am i able to do so, or do i have to attend the courses and take both basic theory and practical tests?

thanks bros...

i think you can try converting your license (both car and motorcycle) at the same time - and see what the staff at the traffic police counter says.

you might get your car license only, or you might get both converted. worth a shot!

[taxico]

Hi, may i asked if your Australian license was class R? I've just completed class R in Australia and am not sure if i could convert it to class 2 back in Singapore.

no, you cannot convert a restricted license.

[taxico]

i got a class 2B license converted from msia licence,and now if i want to go for class 2A license, do i still need to go through colour blindness test? please enlighten me... thanks...

color blindness test... i'm not sure - this would be better asked at another area!

[Saracen]

Just a data point for future reference:

I moved here from the UK 10 months ago (lived there since birth). Had full UK bike license since 2005, after completing a Direct Access (big bike) test. Owned and rode for a couple of years there.

Did my BTT and when I asked about which documents to show for full entitlement, they said nothing was needed, since my entitlement was a while ago. Hence, it seems for foreigners with full bike entitlement that is a few years old, there should be no trouble getting the full entitlement here, with no need for any extra documents. The lady did mention that they only care about people who've travelled abroad from here, got their entitlement and come back, so maybe for Singaporeans who were away for a few years, the case will be different.

Now I suddenly want to get back on two wheels! But protective gear first!

[taxico]

Just a data point for future reference:

I moved here from the UK 10 months ago (lived there since birth). Had full UK bike license since 2005, after completing a Direct Access (big bike) test. Owned and rode for a couple of years there.

Did my BTT and when I asked about which documents to show for full entitlement, they said nothing was needed, since my entitlement was a while ago. Hence, it seems for foreigners with full bike entitlement that is a few years old, there should be no trouble getting the full entitlement here, with no need for any extra documents. The lady did mention that they only care about people who've travelled abroad from here, got their entitlement and come back, so maybe for Singaporeans who were away for a few years, the case will be different.

Now I suddenly want to get back on two wheels! But protective gear first!

the applicant's age would also be taken into consideration... i doubt that an 18 year old "westerner" with a full bike license will be automatically given a singapore class 2 license.

you are right to say that the traffic police department is more wary of locals who have gone overseas and obtained a bike license, as well as foreigners from countries that easily give out bike licenses. for such cases, years of experience/ownership will help bolster the applicant's chances of getting a full class 2 license.

[ViciousKitty74]

the applicant's age would also be taken into consideration... i doubt that an 18 year old "westerner" with a full bike license will be automatically given a singapore class 2 license.

you are right to say that the traffic police department is more wary of locals who have gone overseas and obtained a bike license, as well as foreigners from countries that easily give out bike licenses. for such cases, years of experience/ownership will help bolster the applicant's chances of getting a full class 2 license.

Hi folks,

thanks to taxico with all the detailed information.

And 2nd to that. The 18 year old 'westerner' with a full bike licence being automatically issued with a Singapore class 2 licence is dependant on some other issues.

If you are a 18 year old, who had been actively involved in motorsports during your teenage years. You can probably get someone from your company/guardian to write in a appeal for the class 2 licence.

[est1892]

Malaysia license also can convert?

[ql88]

err its not a restricted license. I've already gotten the class RE(restricted) and upgraded to R which is non restricted.

[freel4ncer]

Hi folks,

thanks to taxico with all the detailed information.

And 2nd to that. The 18 year old 'westerner' with a full bike licence being automatically issued with a Singapore class 2 licence is dependant on some other issues.

If you are a 18 year old, who had been actively involved in motorsports during your teenage years. You can probably get someone from your company/guardian to write in a appeal for the class 2 licence.

Hi,

What about a Singaporean who stayed overseas (USA) for more than 6 months in a one year period, but only just passed his license 2 months before coming back? Can the license still be converted? The TP website doesnt say anything about the license having to be at least 6 months old or anything, so does a quote from MFA (below):

5 In assessing the applications of Singaporeans with foreign driving licences, Traffic Police would generally require the applicants to produce documentary proof of their duration and purpose of stay in the foreign country where they obtained their foreign licence. This criteria for conversion, i.e. that the Singaporean should stay in the foreign country for at least six months and during that stay, obtain the driving licence in the foreign country, are intended to prevent Singaporeans from going overseas to obtain a foreign driving licence and immediately converting the licence upon return. Nevertheless, the six-months is a general guide and Traffic Police is prepared to grant the conversion for a Singaporean who had stayed for less than six months overseas on a case by case basis.

I tried calling into TP but the lady was rude and not very helpful. She said that the applicant has to have the license and then stay in the country for 6 months before being able to convert the license. I already have a singapore class 3 license.

[ViciousKitty74]

She said that the applicant has to have the license and then stay in the country for 6 months before being able to convert the license. I already have a singapore class 3 license.

They have tightened the rules for Singaporeans with overseas licence.

You need to show proof that you got that riding licence in USA six months prior to returning to Singapore. And there was active use of that licence while in USA. In other words. You should be able to show proof of bike ownership, insurances and that your riding licence acquired there are more then 6 months. Anything less, its a 50/50 iffy situation.

As the clause above stated. You need to produce proof of why you were overseas for 6 months. And to further strengthen your case, you could show proof of bike ownership to pass their iffy case by case basis.

Why dont you just submit your application, instead of calling them? Its a iffy situation for your case. The lady has no reason to tell you otherwise because if you failed that application. She & her name will be used by you to say: 'Your so & so officer says it can!'

And errr.....how is the Singapore class 3 licence invovled in this situation?

[freel4ncer]

Dear Sir
Document proof from your passport of a one year stay in the country where
the licence is obtained either preceeding the first issue of the foreign
licence or from the first day of issuence of the foreign licence.
However, I will urge you to bring all your documents for verification by
our counter staff before booking for your BTT. They will be in better
position to advise you after looking through your document. This will
avoid miscommunication over email.
The following test centre for verification:
Comfort driving centre, 205 Ubi Ave 4
Bukit Batok Driving centre, 815 Bukit batok west Ave 5
Singapore Safety Driving Centre, 2 Woodlands Industrial Park 4



This is what the TP replied to me. She did say it can be 6 months preceding the first issuance of the license, but refuse to give me a definitive answer on whether my license can be converted -_-"

[ViciousKitty74]

This is what the TP replied to me. She did say it can be 6 months preceding the first issuance of the license, but refuse to give me a definitive answer on whether my license can be converted -_-"

And its that difficult to go down and then tell us your results?

[freel4ncer]

oh im still in the USA

[freel4ncer]

yepp, it is possible to convert a license in my scenario. that said, contrary to what other forumers have suggested that you need to have the license for at least 6 months, u dont. you just need to stay 6 months out of a year for valid work/study reasons, and u can get the license even the day before you come back and convert it, no questions asked. hope this clarifies all the speculations going around

[kilat]

Great write up. It answered a lot of questions for me. Thanks! I have one other question...I had a full driving and motorcycle license when I resided in Singapore back in 2002(i am Singaporean). I have been living overseas since then and have a full US DL and own several bikes here. I have let my Singapore DL expire since i have not been back. Well I am thinking of spending more time in SG in the next year or so and plan to buy a bike and tour SE Aisa and want to get my SDL renewed/back again. Is that possible? I still have a NRIC and Singapore passport. TIA for any advice. Cheers!

[Wen gege]

Please enlighten me with my doubt. went through the page but i rather confused.

here is the situation on my brother.
He was send to California for a year to work and he is curently obtained his riding license during the stay, he own a 600cc bike in California.
my question is, can he convert his 600cc California riding license to Singapore riding license to class2?
Appreciate your kidness

[bobiee]

ouchh too late to read this thread...