Complete driving guide for tourists and foreign visitors in Singapore — licence requirements, road rules, ERP gantries, parking, and the best rental cars for exploring the Lion City.

Visiting Singapore and want to explore at your own pace? Driving in Singapore is safe, efficient and well-regulated. This guide covers everything tourists and foreign visitors need to know — from licence requirements to road rules and the best rental cars for sightseeing.

Can foreign visitors drive in Singapore?

Yes. Tourists can drive in Singapore with:

A valid International Driving Permit (IDP) — if your licence is not in English
A valid foreign driving licence written in English — no IDP needed
Your passport — for identification

Tourists can drive on their foreign licence for up to 12 months from the date of entry into Singapore. After that, you must convert to a Singapore driving licence.

Renting a car as a foreign visitor

Requirements

Valid International Driving Permit or English-language licence
Passport
Meet the minimum age (typically 21; some vehicles 23+)
Completed rental agreement

At AKA Car Rental, we have helped many visitors get on the road quickly. For customers without a Singapore identity, our team handles the paperwork on the spot.

Our airport service

If you are flying into Changi Airport, we offer an airport pick-up and drop-off service where our driver meets you at arrivals. Perfect if you want a chauffeured option rather than self-drive.

Self-drive option

If you prefer to drive yourself, browse our fleet for available vehicles. We can arrange delivery to your hotel or a convenient pick-up location.

Singapore road rules for visitors

Drive on the left

Singapore follows left-hand traffic — same as the UK, Australia, Malaysia and Japan. If you are from a right-hand traffic country, take extra care at junctions and roundabouts.

Speed limits

50 km/h on most city roads
70–80 km/h on major roads and expressways
90 km/h on certain expressways

Speed cameras are everywhere and fines are strict. Always observe the posted limit.

ERP (Electronic Road Pricing)

Singapore uses ERP to manage congestion, with charges during peak hours on major roads. Charges are deducted automatically via the On-Board Unit (OBU) fitted to the car. Your AKA rental comes OBU-equipped, so you don't need to arrange anything yourself.

Drink driving

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%. Singapore has strict drink-driving laws with severe penalties including fines, imprisonment and licence disqualification. Never drink and drive.

Mobile phone use

Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you have a hands-free device. Penalties are substantial.

Parking in Singapore

Coupon system

Most public parking in HDB estates and some shopping centres use a coupon system. Buy parking coupons at petrol stations and convenience stores and display them on your dashboard.

Electronic parking

Many shopping malls and newer carparks use electronic parking with payment via CashCard or credit card at the exit barrier.

Parking rates

Rates vary by location — HDB carparks are inexpensive, shopping malls charge a moderate hourly rate, and hotels often offer free parking for guests. Always check the signage at each carpark.

Best rental cars for tourists

For couples: a sedan

A mid-size sedan is perfect for couples — comfortable, fuel-efficient and easy to park in Singapore's carparks. Browse our fleet for options.

For families: an MPV

Families with children and luggage will appreciate a 7-seater MPV like the Toyota Noah or Honda Freed. Sliding doors make it easy to get in and out in tight carparks. See our MPV category.

For sightseeing: a chauffeur

If you prefer not to drive, our Singapore tour packages offer flexible 4–12 hour packages with a professional driver to Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, Marina Bay Sands and more.

Top driving destinations in Singapore

Marina Bay area

Drive to Marina Bay Sands for the SkyPark view, Gardens by the Bay for the Supertrees, and the Esplanade for waterfront dining.

Sentosa Island

Drive across the Sentosa Gateway for beaches, Universal Studios and adventure parks. Parking is available at multiple points on the island.

Mandai Wildlife Reserve

Home to the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders and Bird Paradise — all in one location. About 30 minutes' drive from the city centre.

East Coast Park

A long coastal park perfect for a scenic drive, cycling and beachfront dining.

Tips for driving in Singapore

Use Google Maps or Waze — both work well with real-time traffic
Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM and 5–8 PM) when traffic is heavy and ERP charges apply
Keep a stored-value card handy for parking and tolls
Fill up at petrol stations before returning the car
Keep your rental agreement and licence with you

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive in Singapore on my foreign licence? Yes — for up to 12 months from entry. If your licence is not in English, carry an International Driving Permit.

Do I need an IDP? Only if your licence is not in English. An English-language licence is accepted on its own.

Is the rental car OBU-equipped for ERP? Yes. All AKA vehicles come with the OBU fitted, so ERP charges are handled automatically.

Can I get a chauffeur instead of self-drive? Yes. See our Singapore tour packages for chauffeured options.

Conclusion

Driving in Singapore is a great way to see more of the island at your own pace. Bring the right documents, follow local road rules, and pick a vehicle that suits your group. Ask our team for local tips when you book — it can make all the difference to your trip.

Singapore Driving Guide for Tourists and Foreign Visitors (2026)