The search above is provided by DiscoverCars.com, World's Best Car Rental Booking Website of 2022.
If you want to be sure to get the best possible deal, we recommend checking also QEEQ.COM, one of the fastest-growing online car rental platforms worldwide, listing over 7 million rental cars in around 200 countries.
Car Rental in Singapore
Renting a Car in Singapore
If you are planning a trip to Singapore and want to explore the city at your own pace, renting a car can be a convenient option. However, before you book a rental car, it’s important to understand the local driving laws and requirements in Singapore.
Understanding Local Driving Laws
In Singapore, driving is on the left-hand side of the road, and the speed limits are strictly enforced. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the traffic rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Driver’s License and Age Requirements
To rent a car in Singapore, you must be at least 23 years old and have a valid driver’s license for at least two years. Foreign visitors will also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their home country’s driver’s license.
Insurance and Additional Fees
When renting a car in Singapore, it’s important to consider insurance coverage and any additional fees that may apply. Most rental companies offer Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection, but it’s essential to understand the terms and conditions before signing the rental agreement.
Choosing the Right Rental Car
Before booking a rental car, consider the size of the vehicle, fuel efficiency, and any additional features you may need. In Singapore, compact cars are popular due to the narrow streets and limited parking spaces in the city.
Booking in Advance
To ensure the availability of the vehicle of your choice, it’s advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons in Singapore.
Renting a car in Singapore can provide the flexibility and freedom to explore the city and its surrounding areas. By understanding the local driving laws and requirements, you can have a smooth and enjoyable driving experience during your visit to Singapore.
Rental Requirements
Age Limits
To rent a car in Singapore, you must be at least 23 years old. Some rental companies may have a maximum age limit, typically around 65 years old.
Driving License Requirements
You can rent a car in Singapore with a valid local driving license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English. You must have held your license for at least one year.
Documentation
When renting a car in Singapore, you will need to provide a valid passport, a credit card for the security deposit, and your driving license or IDP.
Insurance Information
When renting a car in Singapore, it’s important to understand the insurance options available to you.
– Basic Insurance: Most rental car companies in Singapore include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection in their basic insurance package. CDW covers the cost of repairs in case of an accident, while Theft Protection covers the cost of replacing the car if it is stolen.
– Additional Insurance: In addition to the basic insurance, you may also have the option to purchase Personal Accident Insurance, which provides coverage for medical expenses in case of an accident, and Supplemental Liability Insurance, which provides additional liability coverage beyond the basic insurance limits.
– Insurance Tips: Before renting a car in Singapore, it’s recommended to check your existing travel insurance policies to see if they already provide coverage for rental cars. This can help you avoid purchasing duplicate coverage and save you money on insurance costs.
Local Driving Laws and Regulations in Singapore
General Traffic Rules
Driving Side: Driving is on the left side of the road in Singapore.
Speed Limits: Urban areas – 50 km/h, rural roads – 70-90 km/h, highways – 90-100 km/h.
Other Useful Info: Traffic in Singapore moves on the left side of the road, and the speed limits are strictly enforced.
Overtaking and Lane Usage
Overtaking Rules: Overtaking is only allowed on the right side of the road.
Lane Discipline: The ‘keep left unless overtaking’ rule is strictly enforced on multi-lane roads.
Other Useful Info: Always use your turn signals when changing lanes or overtaking.
Seat Belt and Child Safety
Seat Belt Laws: All passengers must wear seat belts, and child passengers must be secured in appropriate child restraints.
Child Safety: Children under 1.35 meters in height must use a child restraint appropriate for their size.
Other Useful Info: It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that all passengers are properly restrained.
Use of Mobile Phones
Mobile Phone Restrictions: The use of handheld mobile devices while driving is illegal.
Other Useful Info: Use a hands-free device if you need to make or receive calls while driving.
Alcohol and Driving
Legal Blood Alcohol Limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08% for all drivers.
Zero Tolerance Policies: There are no specific zero tolerance policies, but penalties for DUI/DWI are severe.
Other Useful Info: It is advisable not to drink and drive at all.
Tolls and Charges
Toll Roads: There are no toll roads in Singapore.
Congestion Charges: Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) is applicable in certain congested areas during peak hours.
Other Useful Info: Make sure to have a stored value card for ERP charges if driving in congested areas.
Roundabouts and Intersections
Navigating Roundabouts: Roundabouts are not common in Singapore.
Intersection Rules: Follow traffic signals and give way to vehicles on your right at intersections.
Other Useful Info: Be cautious at intersections, as there may be pedestrian crossings and cyclists.
Headlight and Windshield Wiper Laws
Headlight Usage: Use headlights from 7 pm to 7 am, or when visibility is less than 200 meters.
Windshield Wiper Rule: There is no specific requirement to turn on headlights when using wipers.
Other Useful Info: It is advisable to use headlights whenever it is raining, regardless of the time of day.
Emergency Vehicles
Right of Way for Emergency Vehicles: Pull over to the side and give way to emergency vehicles with their sirens and lights on.
Other Useful Info: Do not block the path of emergency vehicles, and follow their instructions if given.
Driving Tips for Singapore
Road Conditions
Singapore has well-maintained roads with smooth surfaces, making driving a pleasant experience. However, be prepared for heavy traffic during peak hours, especially in the city center and major expressways.
Urban vs. Rural Driving
In urban areas like Singapore, drivers tend to be more aggressive and assertive, while in rural areas, the pace is slower and more relaxed. Be prepared for sudden lane changes and heavy traffic in urban areas, while rural roads may have narrower lanes and slower speed limits.
Using GPS is highly recommended in Singapore, as it can help you navigate through the intricate road network and avoid getting lost. Google Maps and Waze are popular options, and most rental cars come with GPS systems.
Other Useful Tips
– Familiarize yourself with Singapore’s traffic rules and regulations, such as the strict enforcement of speed limits and the use of electronic road pricing (ERP) gantries.
– Parking can be challenging in the city, so consider using public transportation or parking in designated areas.
– Be aware of toll charges on expressways, which are automatically deducted from your cash card or via the Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system.
When renting a car in Singapore, it’s important to be mindful of these driving tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the road.
Roadside Assistance and Emergency Procedures
In the event of a breakdown while renting a car in Singapore, it is important to know the proper procedures to follow and who to contact for assistance.
Breakdown Procedures
If your rental car experiences a breakdown, the first step is to safely pull over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. Contact the rental company immediately to inform them of the situation. They will provide guidance on the next steps to take.
Emergency Services
In case of a more serious emergency, it is important to have the contact numbers for the police, ambulance, and roadside assistance readily available. The emergency hotline in Singapore is 999 for police, 995 for ambulance, and 9815 5353 for roadside assistance.
Rental Company Policies
Before renting a car, it is important to understand the support offered by rental companies in case of an emergency. Many rental companies in Singapore provide 24/7 assistance and towing services in the event of a breakdown. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific policies of the rental company you choose to rent from.
Where can you Rent a Car in Singapore?
You can browse all the city locations below, sorted alphabetically. Use Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on a Mac) to quickly find the one you want to explore.