From Tokyo to Tuas: A Japanese Driver’s Guide to Acing the Singapore Basic Theory Test

So, you’ve moved to Singapore. You’re already a licensed driver in Japan, comfortable with left-hand traffic and right-hand steering wheels. You might be thinking, “How hard can it be? It’s just like driving at home!”

While the fundamentals are similar, the devil is in the details. To convert your foreign license to a Singapore driving license, you must pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT). Don’t let your experience make you complacent—Singapore has specific road markings, sign shapes, and “right-of-way” rules that differ significantly from Japan’s Road Traffic Law.

Here is a breakdown of the key differences you need to focus on to pass your BTT.

1. The “Stop” Sign: Octagon vs. Triangle

The most immediate visual difference you will encounter is the Stop sign.

• In Japan: You are used to the red, inverted triangle sign that says “止まれ” (Tomare).
• In Singapore: The Stop sign is a red octagon with the word “STOP” in white.

The Rule: In Singapore, you must stop absolutely at the white line. You must give way to traffic from the right and left. Do not just slow down (徐行); a complete stop is mandatory.

2. The “Yellow Box” Junction

In Japan, you are taught not to enter an intersection if you cannot clear it, but Singapore enforces this aggressively with a specific road marking called the Yellow Box Junction.

• The Marking: A large yellow box with crossed diagonal lines painted in the middle of intersections.
• The Rule: It is an offence to drive into this box if your exit lane is not clear. You cannot stop inside it, even if the light is green.
• The Exception: You are allowed to enter and wait in the Yellow Box if you are turning right and waiting for oncoming traffic to clear. This is a common BTT question!

3. The “Zig-Zag” Lines (Pedestrian Crossings)

You will see white zig-zag lines painted on the edges of the road near pedestrian crossings. Japan does not use this specific marking.

• What it means: These lines warn you of a pedestrian crossing ahead.
• The Restriction: There is strictly no overtaking, no stopping, and no parking within the zig-zag area. In Japan, overtaking near crosswalks is prohibited, but Singapore visualizes this zone explicitly with these lines.

4. Traffic Lights: The “Flickering” Arrow

Singaporean traffic lights have a nuance that differs from the standard Japanese cycle.

• Japan: A green arrow usually appears after the main red light to allow turns.
• Singapore: You will encounter a Flickering Green Arrow. This indicates the signal is about to be cancelled.
  • The Action: If you have not crossed the stop line, do not proceed. This is effectively the “amber” signal for the turning arrow.

5. Bus Lanes: Colors and Hours

Japan has “Exclusive” (専用) and “Priority” (優先) bus lanes. Singapore uses a color-coded system painted directly on the road:

• Normal Bus Lane (Continuous Yellow Line): Operational Mon-Fri, 7:30am–9:30am and 5:00pm–8:00pm.
• Full-Day Bus Lane (Yellow and Red Lines): Operational Mon-Sat, 7:30am–11:00pm.

BTT Tip: You are generally not allowed to drive in these lanes during operational hours. However, you can enter them if you are turning into a side road (look for the broken yellow line).

6. Turning Right: The “Discretionary” Turn

In Japan, you often have a dedicated right-turn signal. In Singapore, many junctions allow a discretionary right turn.

• Scenario: The main traffic light is Green, but there is no Green Arrow.
• The Rule: You may proceed to turn right, but you must give way to oncoming straight traffic. You must wait in the intersection (often in a “Right-Turn Pocket”) until a safe gap appears.

7. The “Give Way” Rule

In Japan, you look for “前方優先道路” (Priority Road Ahead) or “徐行” (Slow Down) signs.

• In Singapore: You will see the inverted red triangle sign (which looks like the Japanese Stop sign shape!). This is the Give Way sign.
• The Rule: You must slow down and stop if necessary. You must give way to traffic on the major road.

8. Silver Zones and School Zones

Singapore has specific zones with enhanced penalties for safety.

• School Zones: Marked by red textured road surfaces.
• Silver Zones: Designated areas with lower speed limits (often 30km/h or 40km/h) for elderly pedestrians.
• The Trap: In Singapore, speeding or traffic offences committed in these zones attract additional demerit points and higher fines. This is frequently tested.

Summary Checklist for the Exam:

• Stop Sign: It’s an Octagon, not a Triangle.
• Zig-Zag Lines: No stopping, no overtaking.
• Yellow Box: Do not enter unless your exit is clear (unless turning right).
• Blinking Green Arrow: Prepare to stop, do not accelerate.
• Bus Lanes: Memorize the “Normal” vs. “Full Day” hours.

Good luck with your Basic Theory Test! Once you pass this, converting your license is a smooth process. Drive safe!

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes. Please refer to the official Singapore Traffic Police handbook for the most current regulations.