10 Things to Know when Becoming a Taxi Driver in Singapore
Becoming a taxi driver requires an enthusiastic heart to help travellers navigate Singapore’s busy roads, and legal authorisation. From securing an LTA vocational licence to other reminders, these are the things you should keep in mind if you’re planning to play the streets as a taxi driver in Singapore.
1. Basic qualifications
First of all, you need a valid taxi vocational licence to work. In Singapore, it comes in the form of TDVL, which stands for Taxi Driver’s Vocational Licence. You can apply for TDVL by going to the GoBusiness Licensing portal via Singpass. To be approved, you must:
- be at least 30 years old
- be a citizen of Singapore
- possess a valid Class 3 or 3A Singapore driving licence for at least 1 year
- be able to speak and read basic English
- have up-to-date MediSave contributions, if self-employed
- have a clean criminal record
2. What is PDVL?
PDVL stands for Private Hire Car Driver’s Vocational Licence. It is an issued LTA vocational licence that allows holders to convert their personal vehicles into private hire cars. PDVL licence holders are only allowed to offer chauffeured services using a private car and not a taxi. The licence has a validity period of three years from the issuance date.
3. What is TDVL
As mentioned, TDVL is an LTA vocational licence that authorises a person to drive a taxi. TDVL holders are allowed to offer transport services using both a taxi and a private hire license vehicle. This is the main difference between TDVL and PDVL–TDVL has more perks than PDVL.
4. When to renew PDVL
PDVL renewal should be done every three years following its validity period. To renew a vocational licence, you must pass a medical assessment, not go beyond the mandatory retirement age of 75 years, and have up-to-date MediSave contributions. A refresher driving course is required every six years.
5. What is a refresher course?
A refresher driving course includes review lessons and practices on pre-drive procedures, expressway driving, parking techniques, and handling other traffic situations to reinforce safe and smart driving. You can apply to authorised driving schools for a driving refresher course in Singapore.
6. How to convert PDVL to TDVL?
PDVL holders who want to upgrade their licence to TDVL may do so by visiting the GoBusiness Licensing portal via Singpass. Fortunately, the new conversion course saves PDVL holders from undergoing the entire TDVL classroom training course. Make sure that you’re holding a valid PDVL and have followed the necessary renewal and refresher driving course if it has recently expired.
7. What is BDVL?
Aside from PDVL and TDVL, another LTA vocational licence not to be confused is BDVL or Bus Driver’s Vocational Licence. As the name suggests, BDVL is required for those who want to drive a bus.
8. Which platform to use for a licence application?
You can secure a licence by going online and heading to the GoBusiness Licensing portal. GoBusiness is an online platform that delivers government e-services for different kinds of applications, including business registration, licences, and grants.
9. Average income of a taxi driver in SG & job opportunities
A taxi driver earns $10 for every 10- to 15-minute trip on average. This varies depending on several factors, including tips or whether it’s peak hour. You can bring a decent income home by working for around 8 to 10 hours a day.
10. What to keep in mind if I rent a taxi?
If you’re planning to rent a taxi, keep in mind that the fee varies. It can range from $60 to $130, depending on the size and type of car. This will significantly reduce your income, so it’s important to plan carefully.
11. Getting ready with a TDVL/PDVL
An LTA vocational licence ensures the safety of both you and your passenger. TDVL/PDVL courses will prepare you to handle different and complicated traffic situations and passenger concerns. Authorised driving schools follow quality modules, including a driving refresher course in Singapore. Get your TDVL/PDVL and offer convenient chauffeur services to travellers.
