Guide to driving and riding overseas
Planning to drive or ride overseas for your upcoming holiday? Here is what you should do.
Firstly…. Check if you need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
The IDP is a translation of your licence in other languages and includes all the class types you have acquired. It is useful in non-English speaking countries, and may be used for car rentals, traffic violations & accidents (*touchwood!), motor insurance claims and for verifying driver with photo identification.
While most countries recognize IDP, not ALL of them do. Unfortunately, China, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam do not recognize IDP. Check out the full list here.
Note: Some countries require a temporary driving licence in addition to the IDP, please check with the respective rental companies before proceeding with the application.
If you don’t need an IDP for the country you are heading to, good for you!
Time to start planning the itinerary for your next trip!
For those of you who require an IDP, find out how to obtain one below.
NEXT STEP, APPLY FOR AN INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT (IDP)!
This will cost you S$20, exclusive of local courier fee.
WHERE TO APPLY?
You can apply for your IDP either:
- In person, takes about 1-2 hours during peak periods (highly recommended for urgent applications!), or
- Online, this takes about 10 working days including delivery
NEED THE IDP URGENTLY? APPLY FOR YOUR IDP IN PERSON. JUST WALK IN.
For in person application, walk in to any of the three outlets below:
Documents to bring for walk in application:
- A valid Singapore Driving Licence and identification card (NRIC/FIN)
ONLINE APPLICATION
The IDP will be delivered to the local address stated in your NRIC/FIN, with an additional charge of S$5.50 courier fee. Payment can be made through PayPal or a credit card.
Documents required for online application:
- A copy of your physical Singapore driving licence (front and back)
- A copy of your physical NRIC/FIN (front and back)
- A recent (within 2 years) clear coloured passport-sized photograph of you in plain, light background with your full face visible
Note: Ensure that the photograph is sharp with clear resolution and no watermarks, otherwise your application may be rejected. Your application will be delayed if the photograph does not meet the requirements.
IN A NUTSHELL:
Last thing to note, for countries which require an IDP, you will still need to bring a physical copy of your Driving Licence and your identification card (NRIC/FIN) when you are abroad. The IDP is only valid for a year from date of issue.
Source: AAS, NUS
This article is brought to you by ComfortDelGro Driving Centre.
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Information is accurate as of 15 Nov 2022.