From Sweden to Singapore: A Driver’s Guide to Acing the BTT

The transition from driving in Sweden to Singapore involves more than just switching lanes. For a Swedish driver, passing the Singapore Basic Theory Test (BTT) requires unlearning certain “instincts” (like the right-hand rule) and memorizing specific, strict local regulations.

This guide compares the two codes to help you pass the BTT on your first attempt.

1. The Core Shift: Left vs. Right

This is the most obvious difference, but it affects every decision you make on the road.

• Sweden: Right-hand traffic (since Dagen H in 1967). Overtake on the left.
• Singapore: Left-hand traffic (British system). Overtake on the right.
• BTT Focus:
  • Roundabouts: In Singapore, traffic flows clockwise. You give way to traffic coming from your right inside the roundabout.
  • Keep Left Rule: The BTT places huge emphasis on “Road Hogging.” You must keep to the left lane unless overtaking. The rightmost lane is only for overtaking. Driving slowly in the right lane is a punishable offence.

2. Right-of-Way: “Högerregeln” vs. The Major/Minor Road

In Sweden, the Högerregeln (Priority to the Right) is a default rule that applies at almost all uncontrolled intersections. You might instinctively look right and expect to go if the left is clear.

• Sweden: At uncontrolled junctions, you yield to vehicles approaching from the right.
• Singapore:
  • Major vs. Minor: The concept of Major (Main) vs. Minor roads is dominant. Traffic on the minor road must always give way to the major road.
  • Uncontrolled T-Junctions: The vehicle on the terminating road (the bottom of the “T”) must give way to vehicles on the through road, regardless of direction.
  • BTT Trap: If the test asks who has the right of way at an uncontrolled junction, do not automatically apply Högerregeln. Look for “Stop” lines or the geometry of the road (major vs. minor).

3. The U-Turn Trap

This is the most common failure point for European drivers in Singapore.

• Sweden: Generally, U-turns are permitted unless a sign explicitly prohibits them.
• Singapore: U-turns are PROHIBITED by default. You may only make a U-turn if you see a “U-Turn” sign.
• BTT Focus: If you see a gap in the central divider without a U-turn sign, you cannot turn.

4. Bus Priority

Both countries protect public transport, but Singapore physically marks the road to enforce it.

• Sweden: You yield to buses leaving a stop if the speed limit is 50km/h or less.
• Singapore:
  • Mandatory Give-Way to Buses: Look for a Yellow Box painted at the bus stop exit and a triangular “Give Way” marking. You must stop and let the bus exit if it is pulling out.
  • Bus Lanes (Crucial for BTT): You must memorize the two types of bus lanes:
    • Normal (Continuous Yellow Line): Mon-Fri, 7:30am–9:30am & 5:00pm–8:00pm.
    • Full Day (Continuous Yellow & Red Line): Mon-Sat, 7:30am–11:00pm.
  • BTT Tip: You are allowed to enter a bus lane only if the line is dotted (broken) and you are turning into a side road.

5. Yellow Box Junctions

While Sweden has rules against blocking intersections, Singapore enforces them with specific road markings and cameras.

• The Rule: You must never enter a yellow box junction (the criss-cross yellow lines) unless your exit path is clear.
• The Exception: You may enter a yellow box if you are turning right but are blocked by oncoming traffic—provided your exit lane is clear.
• BTT Focus: Stopping in a yellow box because of traffic congestion adds Demerit Points.

6. Pedestrian Crossings: The Zig-Zag Lines

• Sweden: You yield at zebra crossings.
• Singapore:
  • Zig-Zag Lines: White zig-zag lines are painted on the road approaching a pedestrian crossing.
  • The Rule: If you see these lines, you strictly cannot overtake any vehicle, nor can you park or stop. This applies to the area before and after the crossing.
  • BTT Trap: A common question asks if you can overtake a slow vehicle near a zebra crossing. If zig-zag lines are present, the answer is a hard NO.

7. Traffic Lights: “Left Turn on Red”

• Sweden: Generally, no turning on red.
• Singapore:
  • Left Turn on Red: You are allowed to turn left at a red light only if there is a “Left Turn on Red” sign mounted on the traffic light pole. You must stop first, check for traffic, and then proceed.
  • Green Arrow: A flickering green arrow means the signal is about to end (prepare to stop).

8. Alcohol Limits

Sweden has one of the strictest alcohol limits in the world. Singapore’s limit is higher, but the penalties are incredibly severe (jail time is common).

• Sweden: 0.2 mg/ml (0.02%).
• Singapore: 0.8 mg/ml (0.08%) or 35 micrograms per 100ml of breath.
• BTT Focus: Do not assume “zero tolerance” is the law in the test options, but remember that being under the limit but visibly intoxicated is still a chargeable offense.

9. The Demerit Points System (DIPS)

You will be tested on the specific points for specific offenses. This is pure memorization.

• New Drivers: If you accumulate 13 points within your first year (probation), your license is revoked.
• Key Offenses to Memorize:
  • Failing to wear a seatbelt: 3 points.
  • Crossing double white lines: 4 points.
  • Exceeding speed limit by 21–30 km/h: 6 points.
  • Using a mobile phone while driving: 12 points + forfeiture of phone.

Summary Checklist for the Swedish Driver

1. Forget the “Right-Hand Rule”; look for Stop/Give Way lines.
2. Assume U-turns are illegal until you see a sign permitting them.
3. Memorize Bus Lane hours (Mon-Sat, 7:30-11:00 for Full Day).
4. Never stop in a Yellow Box unless turning right.
5. Do not overtake near white zig-zag lines.
6. Drive on the Left! (This seems obvious, but it affects which lane is “fast” and “slow”).

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