Convert Foreign Driving Licence

Conversion Process

Step 1: Pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT)

You cannot convert your licence without passing this test. It assesses your knowledge of local traffic signs and rules.

1. Book the Test: Create an account and book a BTT slot at one of Singapore's three driving centers:

Bukit Batok Driving Centre (BBDC) – West
ComfortDelGro Driving Centre (CDC) – Ubi (East)
Singapore Safety Driving Centre (SSDC) – Woodlands (North)

2. The Test: It consists of 50 multiple-choice questions. You must score 45/50 (90%) to pass.
Note: No practical driving test is required for standard conversion unless you hold a Work Permit.

Step 2: Submit Eligibility Application (Online)

Once you pass the BTT, you cannot simply walk into the police station. You must first apply for an appointment online.

1. Visit the Singapore Police Force e-Services page.
2. Look for "Application for Conversion of Foreign Driving Licence" (typically a FormSG link).
3. Submit your details. You will receive an email outcome (usually within a few weeks) inviting you to book an appointment at the Traffic Police HQ.

Step 3: Visit Traffic Police HQ

Go to 10 Ubi Avenue 3, Singapore 408865 at your scheduled time. Bring the required documents (original and photocopy).

Required Documents

Document	Notes
Passport	Bring old passports if they contain your initial entry stamps into Singapore.
Residency Card	NRIC (for PRs) or FIN Card (EP, S-Pass, LTVP, etc.).
Foreign License	Must be valid. If not in English, you need an International Driving Permit or an official translation.
Photo	One recent passport-sized photo (white background, matte finish).
Processing Fee	$50. Payment via NETS or CashCard only.
Proof of Residency	Required for Citizens/PRs who got their license while abroad: Proof you lived in that country for at least 6 months (e.g., tax returns, school transcripts).

Important Rules by Status

Permanent Residents (PR)

You must convert your licence within 3 months of getting your PR status.

Employment Pass / S-Pass / LTVP

You must convert if you have stayed in Singapore for more than 12 months.

Work Permit Holders

Converting usually grants you a Class 3C licence (allows you to drive cars/vans for personal use only). If you need to drive for work (e.g., lorry driver), you must pass a Practical Driving Test to get a full Class 3 licence.

Common Pitfall: Automatic vs. Manual

If your foreign licence does not explicitly mention "Manual transmission," the Traffic Police will likely issue you a Class 3A (Automatic only) licence.

Tip: If you want a manual licence, bring an official letter from your home country's licensing authority stating your licence allows you to drive manual vehicles.

Key Differences by Origin

1. The "Malaysia Exception"

Additional Paperwork

No Translation Needed: Malay is a national language.
Mandatory JPJ Extract: Must obtain an official "Extract of Driving Licence" from Malaysian JPJ.
One-Licence Policy: Converting often "cancels" your Malaysian licence renewal ability.

2. The "Language Barrier"

Translation Requirements

Requirement: If not in English, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) OR official translation.
Exemptions: Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia (Malay/Bahasa).

3. The "Work Permit" Restriction

Class 3C Licence

Class 3C: Usually issued to Work Permit/S-Pass holders.
Personal Use Only: Cannot drive light goods vehicles/small buses without a practical test.

Summary Table

Feature	Standard (UK, USA, etc.)	Malaysia	Brunei / Indonesia
Basic Theory Test	Mandatory	Mandatory	Mandatory
Practical Test	No (unless Work Permit)	No (unless Work Permit)	No (unless Work Permit)
Translation/IDP	Not needed (if in English)	Not needed	Not needed
Extra Docs	None	JPJ Extract	None

Common Myth

Myth: "Can I skip the theory test if my country has a treaty with Singapore?"
Fact: No. Regardless of whether you are from the UK, Japan, or ASEAN, everyone must pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT) to convert a licence. There are no "automatic swap" agreements that waive this test.