BASIC THEORY

OF DRIVING
THE OFFICIAL HANDBOOK

CONTENTS
PART A : DRIVING LICENCES
Introduction 3
What Is A Driving Licence? 3
Fitness To Drive 3
Classes Of Driving Licences 3
Test Of Competence To Drive 4
Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) 4
Validity Of Driving Licence 4
‘NEW’ Drivers 5
Driver Improvement Points System (DIPS) 5
Medical Examination 7
Online Portals 8
PART B (to be tested during Basic Theory Test)
SIGNS AND SIGNALS
Mandatory Signs 9
Prohibitory Signs 11
Warning Signs 14
Regulatory Signs 19
Information Signs 21
Pedestrian Crossing Signs 24
Traffic Signs For Tunnels 25
Signs For Pedal-Cycles 26
Directional Signs 27
Expressway Monitoring And Advisory System (EMAS) 29
Facility Signs 34
Vehicle Markings 34
Common Road Markings 35
Direction Arrows 43
Merging Arrow Markings 43
Signals (Traffic Lights) 44
Signals (On The Road) 46
Signals Given By A Police Officer 47
Basic Theory of Driving is published by
Singapore Traffic Police.
Hand Signals 49
No part of this publication may be reproduced, TRAFFIC RULES AND REGULATIONS
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
The Keep-Left Rule 50
photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the Lane Discipline 50
prior permission of the publisher:
Overtaking 50
Singapore Traffic Police Road-Hogging 52
10 Ubi Avenue 3 Speed Limits 52
Singapore 408865
T (65) 6547 0000 The ‘Give Way’ Rule At Road Junctions 52
F (65) 6547 4900 Roundabouts 53
Published online by Driving On Expressways 54
Traffic Police Yellow-Box Junctions 54
U-Turns 56
Stopping And Parking 56
Last updated on 01.04.2019 Seat Belts 57
Note: The information contained in this handbook
is accurate at the time of publication. Candidates are Lights 57
advised to log in to the TP website at Alcohol 58
http://www.police.gov.sg & LTA website at
http://www.lta.gov.sg for the latest updates. Light Goods Vehicles 58

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 1

CONTENTS PART A
Height Limits 58 DRIVING LICENCES
Use Of Mobile Communication Device While Driving 59
CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD
Moving Off 60
Mirrors And Signals 60
Driving Along 60
Tailgating 60 INTRODUCTION
Safe Following Distance 60 The “Basic Theory of Driving” handbook is essential reading for all road users in Singapore, which comprise the pedestrians, cyclists,
The ‘Two-Second’ Rule 61 motorcyclists and drivers. It covers The Highway Code, which includes the traffic rules, traffic regulations, traffic signs and signals,
Stopping Distance 61 and it aims to educate and promote road safety for the road users. Many of the rules and regulations in the Code are legal requirements,
Reversing 62 and if you disobey them, you are committing a traffic offence. You may be fined and given demerit points on your driving licence,
Safety Of Pedestrians And Cyclists 62 which may lead to suspension or revocation of your driving licence, or you may be disqualified by the Courts from driving. Knowing
Emergency Vehicles 62 and applying the traffic rules and regulations in The Highway Code could significantly help to reduce road accidents, casualties and
General Safe Driving 62 fatalities on our roads.
Safe Driving Technique (Defensive Driving Technique) 64
Stopping And Moving Off At Traffic Light Junctions 69 WHAT IS A DRIVING LICENCE?
Roadworthiness 70 1 A driving licence is a legal document issued by the Traffic Police under the Road Traffic Act, which identifies the licensee, sets
PARTS AND CONTROLS OF A CAR out the class(es) of vehicle(s) which he/she may legally drive and states such restrictions or conditions as may apply as well as
Front View/Rear View 71 the period for which the licence is valid, where applicable.
The Instrument Panel (Dashboard) 72
Names Of Various Driving Controls 72 FITNESS TO DRIVE
WORK ZONES 2 In order to qualify for a driving licence to drive or ride a motor vehicle on the roads in Singapore, an applicant:
Road Users At Work Zones 73 (i) Must be at least 18 years old;
Work Zone Signs 73 (ii) Must have passed the test of competence to drive;
(iii) Must not be suffering from mental disorder;
DRIVING IN SPECIAL ZONES
(iv) Must not be suffering from epilepsy;
School Zone Safety 75
(v) Must not be liable to sudden attacks of disabling giddiness or fainting;
Driving In School Zones 75 (vi) Must be able to read at a distance of 25 metres (with the aid of glasses, if worn) a series of 6 letters and figures in white on
Silver Zone Safety 75 a black background of the same size and arrangement as those prescribed for the identification mark of a motor vehicle; and
Driving In Silver Zone 75 (vii) Must be able to distinguish the colours red, amber and green from a distance of 25 metres.
DRIVING IN TUNNELS
Daily Driving Rules 76 CLASSES OF DRIVING LICENCES
AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE 3 The following table is a list of classes of driving licence granted by the Traffic Police under the law.
Introduction 77 DESCRIPTION ELIGIBILITY
How to recognise an Autonomous Vehicles on trial? 77 Invalid carriage of unladen weight not exceeding 250 kg and
How to interact with an Autonomous Vehicle on trial? 77 Invalids or those suffering from some physical
which are specially designed and constructed, and not merely
Class 1 defect or disability who are 18 years old and
PART C (USEFUL INFORMATION) adapted, for the use of persons suffering from some physical
above.
PARKING IN URA/HDB CAR PARKS 78 defect or disability and are used solely by those persons.
LANE USE AND VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGNS (LUS) 81 Motor cycles with an engine capacity not exceeding 200 c.c., or
Emergency Facilities (Tunnels) 81 Class 2B motor cycles which are propelled by electric motors and Be at least 18 years old.
registered as motorcycles.
Emergency/Incident Procedures (Tunnels) 82
Motor cycles with an engine capacity between 201 c.c and 400 Be in possession of a class 2B Qualified Licence
ECO-DRIVING: WAYS TO SAVE FUEL AND SAVE THE Class 2A c.c. for at least one year.
ENVIRONMENT Be in possession of a class 2A Qualified Licence
Introduction 84 Class 2 Motor cycle with an engine capacity exceeding 400 c.c.
for at least one year.
What is ECO-driving? 84 Motor cars of an unladen weight not exceeding 3000 kg with not
How to adopt ECO-driving? 84 Class 3 more than 7 passengers, exclusive of the driver; and motor Be at least 18 years old.
SECURITY MEASURES TO PREVENT THEFT OF/ FROM tractors / vehicles of unladen weight not exceeding 2500 kg.
MOTOR VEHICLES Motor cars without clutch pedals (auto) of an unladen weight
Introduction 86 not exceeding 3000 kg with not more than 7 passengers,
Class 3A Be at least 18 years old.
Motorcycles 86 exclusive of the driver; and motor tractors / vehicles without
Cars 86 clutch pedals of unladen weight not exceeding 2500 kg.
General 86 Work Permit and S-pass holders only need to
87 Motor cars constructed solely and adapted to carry not more pass the Basic Theory Test to convert their
KEY POINTS OF THE MOTOR CLAIMS FRAMEWORK Class 3C than 7 passengers (exclusive of the driver) and the weight of foreign driving license to be allowed to drive all
(MCF) which unladen does not exceed 3000 kg only. Class 3 vehicles except for light goods vehicles,
mini vans and small buses.
Motor cars without clutch pedals of unladen weight not The Class 3CA licence is introduced to new
Class
exceeding 3000 kg with not more than 7 passengers exclusive drivers who only want to drive automated Class
3CA of the driver. 3C vehicles.
Omnibuses - For public service vehicles which are used on
Be at least 21 years old and in possession of a
Class 4A scheduled services and in which passengers are charged separate
class 3 Qualified Licence.
and distinct fares.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 2 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 3

PART A PART A
DRIVING LICENCES DRIVING LICENCES
Heavy motor cars of an unladen weight exceeding 2500 kg and ‘NEW’ DRIVERS
Be at least 21 years old and in possession of a
Class 4 constructed to carry a load or passengers; and motor tractors of
class 3 Qualified Licence. 10 New drivers are motorists who hold a new class of driving licence for less than one year from the date of grant of licence. They
an unladen weight between 2500 kg and 7250 kg. shall be under probation for one year from the date of grant of the new driving licence to them.
Motor vehicle of an unladen weight exceeding 7250 kg and not Be at least 21 years old and in possession of a
Class 5 constructed to carry any load. class 4 Qualified Licence. 11 During the one year probation period, all new Class 2B, Class 3/3A and Class 3C/3CA drivers are required to display a
distinguishing mark (i.e. Probation Plate) at the front and rear of their vehicles when driving.
TEST OF COMPETENCE TO DRIVE
4 An applicant for a new class of licence must pass the test of competence to drive, which includes the theory and/or practical In the case of a Class 2B motor vehicle, the Probation Plate should be displayed:
driving/riding tests: (a) directly above or below the headlamp; and
(a) Basic Theory Test (BTT) (b) directly above or below the rear licence plate.
The Basic Theory Test (BTT) is designed to test your knowledge of the traffic rules, traffic regulations, traffic signs and
signals as well as general road safety. The testing curriculum for BTT is broadly covered in the handbook titled “The Official For a Class 3, 3A, 3C & 3CA motor vehicle which is constructed with a front and a rear windscreen, the
Handbook - Basic Theory of Driving” and all learner drivers and riders must obtain a pass for BTT before they can proceed Probation Plate should be displayed;
to take the advanced theory test i.e. the Final Theory Test (FTT) or the Riding Theory Test (RTT). (a) at the top right portion of the front windscreen; and
(b) Final Theory Test (FTT) (b) at the top right portion of the rear windscreen, as seen from the outside of the vehicle; Probation Plate
After passing the BTT, and if you want to obtain a motorcar driving licence (Class 3 or 3A), you must pass your FTT before
you can take the Practical Driving Test. The FTT aims to test your knowledge on driving safety aspects and proper techniques 12 Those who fail to display the Probation Plate will be fined. Repeat offenders with at least 2 offences of failing to display the
of driving, as well as your interaction with other road users whilst driving on the roads. After you have passed your FTT, you Probation Plate during their one year probation period will have their licence revoked.
are required to pass the Practical Driving Test within two years, failing which, you will have to retake and pass your FTT
again before you can apply for another Practical Driving Test. The testing curriculum for FTT is broadly covered in the A new driver who accumulates 13 or more demerit points during the one year probation period will also have his/her new driving
handbook titled “The Official Handbook - Final Theory of Driving”. licence revoked.
(c) Riding Theory Test (RTT)
After passing the BTT, and if you want to obtain a motorcycle driving licence (Class 2B), you must pass your RTT before DRIVER IMPROVEMENT POINTS SYSTEM (DIPS)
you can take the Practical Riding Test. The RTT aims to test your knowledge on riding safety aspects and proper techniques 13 Singapore’s demerit points system, named the Driver Improvement Points System (DIPS), was introduced on 1 March 1983.
of riding, as well as your interaction with other road users whilst riding on the roads. After you have passed your RTT, you
are required to pass the Practical Riding Test within one year, failing which, you have to retake and pass your RTT again 14 DIPS is designed to identify and rehabilitate errant drivers through a system of rewards and punishments. Errant motorists are
before you can apply for another Practical Riding Test. thus encouraged to improve their driving behaviours on the roads with incentives to expunge their demerit points and previous
(d) Practical Driving / Riding Test suspension record as well as remission of suspension period.
The Practical Driving / Riding Test will be conducted by a Driving Examiner appointed by the Traffic Police. You must
provide a motor vehicle which is suitable for the test, in good mechanical condition and properly insured against third-party Key Features Of DIPS
risks.
Suspension Of Driving Licence
5 In order to book and take a theory or practical driving / riding test, an applicant must fulfil the following eligibility requirements New or Probationary Motorists
at the date of booking or date of taking his/her test: 15 For a new motorist who is under one year probation from the date of grant of his/her driving licence, his/her new driving licence
(a) He/She has not accumulated more than 12 demerit points; will be revoked and become invalid when he/she accumulates 13 or more demerit points during his/her probation period. The
(b) He/She is not under suspension or Court disqualification or is not within the period of one year from the date of revocation licence holder will have to retake all the necessary driving tests (theory and practical) to obtain a licence to drive/ride again and
of his/her driving licence; can only retake the driving tests one year after the revocation is effected.
(c) He/She is not under police investigation; and
(d) He/She has not committed 2 or more offences of failing to display a distinguishing mark (i.e. Probation Plate) during his/her Non-Probationary Motorists
period of probation as a new driver for his/her other new class of driving licence. 16 For a motorist who has no previous suspension record with Traffic Police, if he/she has accumulated 24 or more demerit points
within 24 consecutive months, his/her driving licence will become liable for the 1st suspension of a period of 12 weeks.
PROVISIONAL DRIVING LICENCE (PDL) 17 For a motorist who has previous suspension records with Traffic Police, if he/she has accumulated 12 or more demerit points
6 After passing your BTT, you may apply for a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) to start learning to drive or ride on the roads within 12 consecutive months, his/her driving licence will become liable for the subsequent suspension.
with your driving instructor. A PDL is valid for 2 years from the date of grant and can be renewed subsequently for every 2 years.
18 For subsequent suspensions after the 1st suspension, the suspension periods are:
7 As a PDL holder, you must display two 18 cm square ‘L’ plates, in a conspicuous position on both the front and back of your (a) 2nd suspension : 24 weeks;
motor vehicle during your driving lessons and driving tests, as well as be insured against third-party risk, during your driving tests (b) 3rd suspension : 1 year;
and driving lessons. You can only drive whilst under the supervision of your licensed driving instructor or driving school’s driving (c) 4th suspension : 2 years; and
instructor. (d) 5th suspension (onwards) : 3 years.
8 To apply for a PDL, an applicant must fulfil the following eligibility requirements at the date of the application: 19 Where the suspension period lasts a year or longer (i.e. 3rd suspension onwards), the driving licence will be revoked and become
(a) He/She has not accumulated more than 12 demerit points; invalid. The licence holder will have to retake all the necessary driving tests (theory and practical) to obtain a licence to drive/ride
(b) He/She has passed his/her BTT; again.
(c) He/She must be able to read at a distance of 25 metres (with the aid of glasses, if worn) a series of 6 letters and figures in
white on a black background of the same size and arrangement as those prescribed for the identification mark of a motor 20 Motorists liable for 1st and 2nd suspensions will be offered a retraining course to correct their driving behaviour. If they take and
vehicle; and pass the retraining course, they will be given a remission on their suspension period:
(d) He/She must be able to distinguish the colours red, amber and green from a distance of 25 metres. (a) For 1st suspension, the suspension period will be reduced from 12 weeks to 4 weeks. If none of their traffic offences leading
to their 1st suspension was involved in a traffic accident, their suspension period will be further reduced to 1 week; and
VALIDITY OF DRIVING LICENCE (b) For 2nd suspension, it will be reduced from 24 weeks to 12 weeks.
9 If you are a Singapore Citizen or a Permanent Resident, your driving licence will be valid for your lifetime. However, if you are
a foreigner and a holder of a work pass granted by the Ministry of Manpower (for example: Employment Pass, S-Pass, Work 21 There is no offer of retraining course and remission for 3rd and subsequent suspensions.
Permit, Dependent Pass issued with restriction as to his/her period of stay in Singapore), your driving licence will be valid for a
period up to 5 years. 22 During the suspension period, the licence holder’s photocard driving licence must be surrendered to Traffic Police. For 1st and
2nd suspensions, the licence holder’s photocard driving licence will be returned to him/her upon the expiry of the suspension
period.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 4 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 5

PART A PART A
DRIVING LICENCES DRIVING LICENCES
The following table summarises the suspension rules under DIPS for non-probationary motorists.
S/No. Offences Committed Demerit Points
Level Of Criteria for Period of Maximum Balance Period Of Suspension 15 Exceeding the speed limit of a vehicle by 1 to 20 kilometres per hour 4
Suspensions Suspension Suspension Remission Allowed After Retraining 16 Exceeding the speed limit of a road by 1 to 20 kilometres per hour 4
17 Failing to give way to oncoming traffic at a controlled junction 4
1st suspension 24 points or 12 weeks 8 weeks (after passing 4 weeks OR 1 week (If none of the
18 Failing to give way at an uncontrolled junction 4
more within 24 retraining) traffic offences leading to the 1st 19 Failing to give way at a junction 4
months suspension was involved in a traffic 20 Failing to give way at a roundabout 4
accident) 21 Crossing double white lines 4
2nd suspension 12 points or 24 weeks 12 weeks (after passing 12 weeks 22 Crossing a road divider 4
more within 12 retraining) 23 Obstructing the flow of traffic 4
months 24 Forming up incorrectly when turning left or right 4
3rd suspension 12 points or 12 months 0 12 months (Licence revoked) 25 Failing to give way to an ambulance, fire brigade or police vehicle 4
more within 12 26 Driving while carrying a load on a motor vehicle in a dangerous manner 4
months 27 Stopping on the shoulder or verge of an expressway 4
4th suspension 12 points or 24 months 0 24 months (Licence revoked) 28 Stopping or remaining at rest on the carriage way of an expressway 4
more within 12 Fine : Light Vehicle: $150 ; Heavy Vehicle : $200
29 Exceeding the speed limit of a vehicle by 21 to 30 kilometre per hour 6
months
30 Exceeding the speed limit of a road by 21 to 30 kilometres per hour 6
5th suspension 12 points or 36 months 0 36 months (Licence revoked) Driving on the shoulder of an expressway
31 6
and above more within 12 32 Failing to securely tie or attach goods to a goods vehicle to prevent them from falling off the vehicle 6
months 33 Offences committed by motorists at a pedestrian crossing 6
34 Driving or riding against the flow of traffic as indicated by traffic signs 6
Multiple Notice Of Demerit Points Accumulated 35 Careless driving 6
23 Motorists will be notified and updated of their demerit point status after settling every offence where demerit points are awarded. 36 Carrying passengers on a motor vehicle or trailer in a dangerous manner 6
The intent of the letter is to pre-warn the licence holders to improve their driving behaviour, and encourage them to remain 37 Reversing unnecessarily along an expressway 6
offence-free for 12 months for their demerit points to be expunged; otherwise they may face the consequence of becoming liable 38 Failing to obey the 1.1 metre height restriction for persons carried on an open deck goods vehicle 6
for suspension. 39 Carrying passengers when the clear floor space of the open deck of a goods vehicle available for each 6
passenger is insufficient
Incentives For Good Driving Behaviour Fine : Light Vehicle: $200 ; Heavy Vehicle : $250
24 A licence holder who maintains a 12-month period free of scheduled offences from the date of the last scheduled offence 40 Exceeding the speed limit of a vehicle by 31 to 40 kilometres per hour 8
41 Exceeding the speed limit of a road by 31 to 40 kilometres per hour 8
committed will have all his/her previous demerit points removed from his/her record.
Fine : Light Vehicle: $300 ; Heavy Vehicle : $400
42 Driving without due care or reasonable consideration for other road users 9
25 A licence holder who maintains a 24-month period free of scheduled offences from the date of expiry of the last suspension will Carrying passengers on a goods vehicle in a dangerous manner
43 9
also have all his/her previous suspension(s) removed from his/her record, i.e. he/she will be treated similar to a driver with no Fine : Light Vehicle: $300 ; Heavy Vehicle : $400
previous suspension record. 44 Exceeding the speed limit of a vehicle by 41 to 50 kilometres per hour 12
45 Exceeding the speed limit of a road by 41 to 50 kilometres per hour 12
26 Motorists with a clean driving record for a continuous period of three years will enjoy a discount over and above the usual No- Offender will be prosecuted in court
Claim Bonus when they renew their insurance policy with participating insurance companies. They must also not have made any 46 Failing to conform to traffic light signals 12
claims on their vehicles’ insurance for the past three years. Fine : Light Vehicle: $400 ; Heavy Vehicle : $500
47 Use of mobile telephone while driving 12
27 The public can check on a driver’s driving licence status and demerit points accumulated via Singapore Police Force e-Services 1st offence: Fine not exceeding $1000 or jail up to 6 months or both
at www.police.gov.sg/e-services. 2nd and subsequent offence: Fine not exceeding $2000 or jail up to 12 months or both
48 Exceeding the speed limit of a vehicle by 51 to 60 kilometres per hour 18
List Of Scheduled Offences Under DIPS 49 Exceeding the speed limit of a road by 51 to 60 kilometres per hour 18
Offender will be prosecuted in court
28 Under the DIPS, demerit points are given for the following list of scheduled offences under the Road Traffic (DIPS) Rules.
50 Exceeding the speed limit of a vehicle by more than 60 kilometres per hour 24
S/No. Offences Committed Demerit Points 51 Exceeding the speed limit of a road by more than 60 kilometres per hour 24
52 Reckless or dangerous driving 24
1 Carrying excess pillion or carrying pillion sitting not astride 3
Offender will be prosecuted in court
2 Rider failing to wear, or wearing insecurely, on his/her head a protective helmet 3
3 Disobeying the traffic direction of police officer, employee of Authority or security officer engaged in 3
regulating traffic MEDICAL EXAMINATION
4 Conveying a load not properly secured 3 29 Upon reaching the stipulated age limits, all licence holders are required by law to undergo a medical examination to certify their
5 Using tyres with ply or cord carcass exposed 3 fitness to drive in order to validate their driving licence to continue to drive:
6 Driver failing to wear seat belt 3 (a) Class 2B, 2A, 2, 3, 3A, 3C and 3CA Driving Licence
7 Parking abreast of another vehicle 3
8 Parking within a pedestrian crossing 3 A Class 2B, 2A, 2, 3, 3A, 3C and 3CA licence (whichever applicable) shall cease to be valid upon the holder reaching the
9 Stopping in a zebra controlled (or more commonly known as zebra crossing) area 3 age of 65 years, unless the holder is certified physically and mentally fit to drive by a Singapore registered medical
10 Driver failing to ensure that every passenger wears a seat belt 3 practitioner every 3 years from age of 65 (i.e. 65, 68, 71, 74 etc).
11 Using a motor vehicle where a person below 1.35 metres in height is a passenger and is not properly 3 (b) Class 4A, 4 and 5 Driving Licence
secured by an approved child restraint or a body-restraining seat belt
12 Parking within a Demerit Points No Parking Zone 3 A Class 4A, 4 and 5 driving licence shall cease to be valid upon the holder reaching the age of 65 years, unless:
13 Stopping within a Demerit Points No Stopping Zone 3 (i) the holder is certified physically and mentally fit to drive by a Singapore registered medical practitioner every year
14 Failing to fill up every passenger seat in the driver’s cabin, or any additional cabin or enclosed space 3 from age of 65 till age of 74; and
provided for the carriage of passengers or goods and which is adjacent to or is an extension of the cabin (ii) the holder has passed a Proficiency Driving Test at the driving test centre.
for the driver, before carrying any person on the floor of an open deck goods vehicle
Fine : Light Vehicle: $150 ; Heavy Vehicle : $200

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 6 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 7

PART A
DRIVING LICENCES PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS
ONLINE PORTALS
30 For more information on driving in Singapore and general road safety, you are encouraged to refer to the following relevant (to be tested during Basic Theory Test)
websites:
(a) Singapore Police Force
http://www.police.gov.sg/resources/traffic-matters
(b) Singapore Road Safety Council SIGNS & SIGNALS
http://srsc.org.sg/ 32 Traffic signs are erected for 2 main purposes:
(c) Electronics Driver Data Information & Enquiry System (EDDIES) (a) To regulate traffic movements.
http://www.police.gov.sg/e-services (b) To warn and inform road users of hazards or give useful information.
(d) One.Motoring
http://www.onemotoring.com.sg/publish/onemotoring/en.html MANDATORY SIGNS
33 These are compulsory signs. It is an offence to disobey them.
31 For information on driving in overseas and application of International Driving Permit (IDP), you may refer to the following
website:
(a) Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS)
http://www.aas.com.sg/index.php

Turn right only Turn left only Ahead only

Turn right ahead Turn left ahead

Keep left Split traffic

(Vehicles may pass on either side)

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 8 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 9

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Mandatory Signs SIGNS & SIGNALS Prohibitory Signs

PROHIBITORY SIGNS
34 Failure to comply with these signs constitutes an offence.

No entry for No stopping

Stop all vehicles
(Stop before the white line.
Give way to traffic from the right and left)

Stop for children to Left Turn on Red

cross the road • Stop at the red light
• Give way to pedestrians crossing at the junction No waiting
• Give way to traffic approaching from the right (Vehicles may stop
• Proceed only when the way is clear and it is safe to do to allow boarding or
so alighting only)

No waiting and
No loading/unloading
during stated hours

Give Way
(Slow down. Stop if necessary.
Give way to traffic on major road)

No right turn No left turn

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 10 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 11

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Prohibitory Signs SIGNS & SIGNALS Prohibitory Signs

Width limit
(This sign prohibits the entry of vehicles with width in excess of 2.3m. The
numerals on the sign may be altered to indicate different width restriction)

Speed limit Speed limit Speed limit

(Do not exceed 40 km/h) (Do not exceed 50 km/h) (Do not exceed 60 km/h)

Height limit (This sign prohibits the entry of vehicles with an overall
height in excess of 4.5m. The numerals on the sign may be altered to
indicate different height restriction. Anyone who drives a vehicle with
overall height exceeding 4.5m without police escort is committing an
offence)
Speed limit Speed limit Speed limit
(Do not exceed 70 km/h) (Do not exceed 80 km/h) (Do not exceed 90 km/h)

Weight limit (This sign prohibits the entry of vehicles with weight laden
or unladen in excess of 10 tonnes. The numerals on the sign may be altered
to indicate different weight restriction. Anyone who drives a vehicle with
laden or unladen weight exceeding 10 tonnes without police escort is
committing an offence)

No sounding of horn No overtaking No entry for lorries

(Except to prevent accident)

No entry for No entry for motorcycles No entry for motorcycles and pedal
vehicles with 3 cycles
or more axles

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 12 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 13

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Warning Signs SIGNS & SIGNALS Warning Signs

WARNING SIGNS
35 Take extra care, slow down as you approach these signs.

Side road ‘Y’ junction ‘Y’ junction

(Slow down. Beware of (Slow down. Beware of (Slow down. Beware
Right bend Left bend vehicles from the left) traffic joining from the of traffic joining from
(Slow down. Keep left. Do not (Slow down. Keep left. Do right and left) the right)
overtake, make a U-turn or not overtake, make a U-turn
park your vehicle) or park your vehicle)

‘Y’ junction Merging traffic Staggered junction

(Slow down. Beware (Slow down. Beware (Slow down. Beware
of traffic joining from of traffic joining from of vehicles from the
the left) the left) right and left)
Series of bends
(Slow down. Keep left. Do not overtake,
make a U-turn or park your vehicle)

Two-way traffic ahead Two-way traffic across a one-way Lanes merging

(Slow down. Keep left. carriageway (Slow down. Beware
Beware of oncoming (Slow down. Beware of of traffic merging from
traffic) traffic from the right right or left)
Cross junction T junction Side road and left)
(Slow down. Beware of traffic (Slow down. Give (Slow down. Beware of
approaching junction) way to traffic from vehicles from the right)
the right and left)

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 14 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 15

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Warning Signs SIGNS & SIGNALS Warning Signs

Road narrows on one side Road narrows on Vehicle breakdown sign Slippery road Gated level crossing
(Slow down. Do not overtake, make a both sides (To be placed at least 20 (Slow down. (Slow down.
U-turn or park your vehicle) (Slow down. Do not metres from the rear of Drive carefully) Beware of gate closing)
overtake, make a U-turn the vehicle)
or park your vehicle)

Ungated level crossing Uneven road Road hump ahead

Dual-carriageway ends Roundabout Light signals ahead (Slow down. Beware of (Slow down. Keep left. (Slow down. Keep left.
(Slow down. Keep left. (Slow down. Stop if (Slow down. Beware of train approaching) Do not overtake) Do not overtake)
Beware of oncoming necessary. Give way to traffic lights changing)
traffic) traffic on the right)

Steep upward slope Steep downward slope Road leading to quay,

Pedestrian crossing ahead Electronic Road Expressway ahead (Keep left. Change to (Keep left. Change to river bank or sea
(Slow down. Stop for Pricing Zone ahead (Certain types of vehicles a lower gear. Do not a lower gear. Do not (Slow down. Beware of
pedestrian to cross at (Pay a road user charge are prohibited from using overtake, make a U-turn overtake, make a U-turn road ending ahead)
designated crossing) when entering the zone the expressway) or park your vehicle) or park your vehicle)
during restricted hours)

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 16 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 17

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Warning Signs SIGNS & SIGNALS Regulatory Signs

REGULATORY SIGNS
36 These signs regulate the movements of traffic.

Animals Low flying aircraft ahead

(Slow down. (Beware of sudden noise
Beware of animals) from low flying aircraft)

Raised zebra
crossing ahead
(Slow down. Stop for
pedestrians to cross Slow down Drive within the speed limit
at the raised zebra
crossing)

Elderly or handicapped pedestrians Children

(Slow down. Beware of elderly or (Slow down. Beware of children
handicapped pedestrians crossing the crossing the road)
road)

Keep to the left side of Slow down and beware

the road and leave the of obstruction ahead
outermost right lane
for overtaking vehicles

U-turn ahead U-turn ahead Start of school zone

(U-turn ahead (From opposite direction) (Slow down and look
for vehicles) (Beware of U-turning vehicles out for children walking
from opposite direction) or crossing the road)

Slow down and give way as Slow down and get

traffic converges into single lane ready to detour ahead

School zone, 40km/h when lights Pedestrian in road ahead Start of silver zone
flash (Slow down. (Slow down and look out for elderly
(Do not exceed 40km/h when the Beware of pedestrians pedestrians crossing the road ahead.
amber lights flash alternately) Crossing the road ahead) Vehicles shall not travel at more than
40km/h in the silver zone if
40km/h speed limit sign is attached
below)

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 18 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 19

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Regulatory Signs SIGNS & SIGNALS Information Signs

INFORMATION SIGNS
37 These signs provide useful information to motorists.

Detour in the direction indicated

One-way traffic No through road No through road ‘Terminus’ with ‘Terminal’

(Vehicles may turn (Road on the right does (Road ends in a short distance) (For buses only)
right or left) not lead to another road)

Sharp deviation
(Slow down and drive in the
direction indicated)

Bus stop For taxis only For taxis only

(No parking or stopping
within 9 metres of the bus
stop or within the bus bay
Barrier One-way street except omnibuses)
(Slow down and drive carefully) (One-way street begins
from this sign)

Bus lane Full-Day Bus Red light camera ahead

(Vehicles other than Lane Hours Get ready to stop when
Curve Alignment Markers buses are not allowed (Denoted by a the signals change to
(Slow down and drive carefully at bends) to use this lane during Continuous “Amber”
restricted hours) Yellow-and-Red Line)

Normal Bus Lane Hours

(Denoted by a Continuous
Yellow Line)

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 20 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 21

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Information Signs SIGNS & SIGNALS Information Signs

U-turn facility ahead Three turning lanes ahead Start of expressway End of expressway Rain shelter for Any vehicle parked
(Vehicles should (Signal and filter to the (Vehicles should comply (Vehicles should slow motorcyclists in this zone may be
U-turn after the sign) correct lane) with the Expressway down and drive within towed away
Rules after this point) the speed limit of the road)

U-turn sign with vehicle

weight restriction
(U-turn ahead for vehicles
not exceeding the weight
limit as stated on the sign)

Four waiting lanes ahead

(Vehicles waiting to Traffic signals White walking sticks End of school zone End of silver zone
turn may take any of the operating hours (Slow down. Stop if necessary
four waiting lanes. Stop (Traffic signals not in to give way to blind people
for pedestrians crossing operation during crossing the road)
the road) stated hours)

Bus Priority Box

(Also known as Mandatory
Give-Way to Buses)
(Slow down at the first Give-
Way Triangle road marking and
watch out for buses exiting bus stop.
Stop before the Give-Way
lines and give way to buses which Exclusive left turn and
are waiting to leave the bus stop. Give-way to buses shared left turn lane ahead
Do not stay in the yellow exiting. (Usually along expressway)
Give-Way Bus Box) (Slow down. (Signal and filter to the
Give way to buses correct lane)
exiting the bus bay)

Any vehicle parked in this zone Speed regulating Parking Enforcement

may have its wheel clamped strips ahead Camera
(Slow down)

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 22 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 23

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Pedestrian Crossing Signs SIGNS & SIGNALS Traffic Signs For Tunnels

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING SIGNS TRAFFIC SIGNS FOR TUNNELS

38 Pedestrians should obey these signs when crossing the road. 39 Traffic using the tunnel should heed and obey these signs.

Pedestrian overpass Pedestrian underpass Designated pedestrian crossing Tunnel Ahead Vehicles carrying Switch on headlights
(The stretch of road dangerous goods are not and turn on radio
ahead is in a tunnel) allowed in the tunnels (Local/BBC)

The GREEN Arrow

indicates that the lane is open for use

Pedestrian signal Pedestrian signal ‘Green Man’ Countdown timer

‘Red Man’ (You may cross but do (Indicates the remaining time
(Do not cross) not cross when the (in seconds) for pedestrians
light flickers) to cross the road)

The FLASHING AMBER Cross

is a caution signal to indicate possible obstruction
ahead although the lane is open to vehicles.
Drivers must slow down and be prepared to change lane

Pedestrian crossing Prohibition

(Within these signs, pedestrians must use the designated crossing The RED Cross
when crossing the road) indicates that the lane is closed to traffic

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 24 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 25

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Signs For Pedal-Cycles SIGNS & SIGNALS Directional Signs

SIGNS FOR PEDAL-CYCLES DIRECTIONAL SIGNS

40 Pedal cyclists should obey these signs. 41 Directional signs are usually rectangular with a green background. There are two types: Advance and Confirmation Directional
Signs. Confirmation Directional Signs have a chevron shape on one end to indicate the direction.

No entry for bicycles

Bicycle stand

Advance Directional Sign Confirmation Directional Sign

No entry for pedestrians and 42 On all roads leading to destinations along expressways, the signs have either:
pedal-cycles
(a) Yellow letters on green backgrounds with yellow borders, which will be phased out;

No parking of bicycles

This sign prohibits the riding

of pedal-cycles (e.g. trishaws,
tricycles and bicycles) beyond
the point marked by the sign. Advance Directional Sign Confirmation Directional Sign

OR

(b) White lettering on green backgrounds, and the white text describing an expressway destination is encased in a blue
Bicycle Crossing background.

Cyclists Ahead

Road Safety Tips for Cyclists

Bicycles
(a) Install a front light and rear light or reflector for cycling during hours of darkness.
(b) A properly secured seat is required for pillion riders below 12 years old.
(c) Always obey traffic light signals.
Advance Directional Sign Confirmation Directional Sign
(d) Cycle with the flow of traffic when on the roads.
(e) Always dismount at pedestrian crossings and push your bicycle across.
(f) Do not cycle along footways, expressways or overhead bridges.

Power-Assisted
(a) You must only ride an LTA-approved power-assisted bicycle.
(b) Minimum age for Power-Assisted Bicyclists, including pillion passengers, is 16 years old.
(c) Protective helmets must be worn when riding Power-Assisted Bicycle.
(d) Power-Assisted Bicycle must be registered and affixed with a rear number plate.

Crime Advisory
(a) Secure your bicycle with a strong lock (e.g. U-lock) when left unattended, even if it is only for a short while.
(b) Affix a Bicycle Security Label, available from any Neighbourhood Police Centre, to your bicycle to help identify your bicycle Intermediate Sign Gantry Sign
with a unique serial number.

Please refer to www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/walk-cycle-ride/rules-and-code-of-conduct.html for more information on the

rules and code of conduct for cycling.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 26 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 27

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Directional Signs SIGNS & SIGNALS Expressway Monitoring and Advisory Systems (EMAS)

EXPRESSWAY MONITORING AND ADVISORY SYSTEM (EMAS)

44 Motorists should look out for these three types of electronic signboards when travelling towards and along the expressways; and
selected major arterial roads.

Additional information on some directional (a) TRAVEL TIME DISPLAY (TTD)

signs have black letters on white backgrounds These electronic advisory signboards are placed at various entrances leading to the expressways. They provide estimated
with black borders. The sign provides travel times to selected exits on the expressways from the point the motorist enters a particular expressway. For example, if
information on the road that you are a motorist enters CTE, he/she will notice the TTD as below. The estimated travel time to the expressway exit of Ang Mo Kio
approaching. Avenue 1 is about 5 minutes from the point he/she enters CTE.

The estimated travel times are displayed in colour. Green indicates the travel time displayed is up to 50% more than normal
travel time, yellow indicates the travel time displayed is between 50% to 125% more than normal travel time and red indicates
the travel time displayed is more than 125% of normal travel time.

Messages are also displayed on this signboard pertaining to incidents on the expressway. For example, the message
“ACCIDENT on CTE (SLE)” displayed on the TTD below informs motorists that there is an accident occurring on the CTE
in the direction towards SLE.
43 On all roads leading to destinations along roads other than expressways, the signs have white letters on green backgrounds with
white borders.

Accident on
CTE (SLE) Estimated travel times of journeys to
destinations
a) To Ang Mo Kio 1 exit is normal
(green colour);
b) To SLE exit is 50% more than the
normal travel time (yellow colour); and
c) To Woodlands Ave 2 exit is 125%
more than the normal travel time (red
colour)
Advance Directional Sign Confirmation Directional Sign
Displayed destinations / expressway exits
Expressway symbol to denote travel journey via
expressway

In the TTD below, the travel times are displayed in a single colour. The text “ACCIDENT” toggles with “ON CTE (AYE)”
to inform motorists that there is accident occurrence on CTE in the direction of AYE. TTDs like these will be phased out.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 28 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 29

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Expressway Monitoring and Advisory Systems (EMAS) SIGNS & SIGNALS Expressway Monitoring and Advisory Systems (EMAS)

(b) TRAFFIC INFORMATION DISPLAY (TID) ON EXPRESSWAYS / SELECTED MAJOR ARTERIAL

ROADS (iii) An incident occurs on a flyover or underpass along arterial roads
These large displays found along the expressways and selected major arterial roads display traffic information in text and
simple graphic display up to seven colours. They inform motorists of traffic conditions ahead. A red cross indicates location Name of flyover or underpass
with reference to the expressway exits or major road names labelled. A flashing red bar indicates road closure ahead. TIDs
may also display information on incident type, lane(s) affected, congestion information, travel time information or other
traffic advisory messages.

For example, if there is an accident on ECP in the direction towards Airport between Bayshore and Tampines exits, the TID Incident on
Flyover e.g. Right most lane affected
below will alert motorists in advance for them to react accordingly.
Farrer Flyover

Incident occurs between

Left most lane 2 exits (e.g. Bayshore
affected and Tampines exits on Accident Icon
ECP)

Current location (iv) An incident occurs on the road next to a flyover or underpass along arterial roads
Accident Icon

Incident on road next

The TID on the left displays traffic information to flyover
in text and traffic symbols. Expressway TIDs like
these will be phased out.

(c) TRAFFIC SIGN DISPLAY (TSD)

These are smaller signs generally found on the centre divider of expressways. Traffic symbols are displayed to indicate
adverse traffic conditions or to provide instructions to motorists to change lanes.

The following are examples of some other incident scenarios and graphical representations on EMAS TIDs.

(i) Road closure along expressway

Flashing red bar to emphasise

on the road closure ahead

Expressway closure after exit

reference (e.g. Bayshore exit on
ECP)

Accident Icon

(ii) Road closure at expressway exit

Flashing red bar to emphasise
on the exit closure ahead

Exit closure (e.g. Ang Mo Kio

Ave 1 exit on CTE)

Accident Icon

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 30 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 31

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Expressway Monitoring and Advisory Systems (EMAS) SIGNS & SIGNALS Expressway Monitoring and Advisory Systems (EMAS)

EMAS SIGNS
45 Motorist should also be familiar with most of the traffic symbols used on the EMAS signboards. Some of the more commonly
displayed ones are listed below. In addition, lanes are numbered in ascending order from the fast lane to the slow lane, excluding
the road shoulder. Acronyms Meanings
AFT After
BEF Before
LN Lane
SH Shoulder
VEH Vehicle
Common EMAS Acronyms
Caution Congestion Accident
(Slow down. Drive carefully. (Slow down. Drive carefully) (Slow down. Drive carefully.
Beware of road conditions Beware of stopped vehicles
such as road sweeping, tree and motorists)
pruning, plant watering,
spillage, debris or no lane
marking on the road)

Event Running Event Cycling Event

(Drive with (Drive with care. (Drive with care.
Care. Beware of Beware of running Beware of cycling
event on road. event on road. event on road.
Vehicle Breakdown Roadworks Recommended Speed Expect delays) Expect delays) Expect delays)
(Slow down. Drive carefully. (Slow down. Drive (Drive at recommended
Beware of breakdown carefully. Beware of speed)
vehicles and motorists) roadwork activities)

Must Exit Exit Closed Ahead Lane Reduction Right & Left No Left Turn
(Expressway closed (Expressway exit closed (Obstruction at lane 3. Turns Only (Arterial Road –
ahead. Exit from ahead. Use alternative exits) Slow down. Drive carefully. (Arterial Road – Left turn
expressway) Get ready to change lane if Through lanes lane(s) closed
necessary) closed ahead) ahead)

Lane Reduction Ambulance Fire Engine

(Obstruction at lane 4. (Look out and give (Look out and give
Slow down. Drive carefully. way to ambulance) way to fire engine)
Get ready to change lane if
necessary)

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 32 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 33

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Facilities Signs / Vehicle Markings SIGNS & SIGNALS Common Road Markings

FACILITY SIGNS COMMON ROAD MARKINGS

46 Facility signs give motorists information of facilities and the 51 Common road markings ACROSS the road.
direction to take to get to them. These signs have black
letters on white backgrounds with black borders.

47 Directions leading to places of interest for tourists have

white multi-lingual text on a brown background with white
borders, white arrows and pictures.

VEHICLE MARKINGS
48 Vehicles carrying dangerous goods are required to display
hazard information signs,
e.g. DANGER- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE.

49 Long vehicles are required to display at least 3 yellow

reflective markings on each side of the vehicle and at least
1 red reflective marking at the rear of the vehicle. This is to
make them more conspicuous to other road users, especially
at night.

Long vehicles comprise:

(a) Goods vehicles with length exceeding 10 metres; (a) Parallel Broken White Lines (b) Single White Line
(b) Trailers with length exceeding 5 metres; and Parallel broken white lines indicate that traffic approaching these Horizontal white line indicates that traffic is required to stop
(c) Mobile cranes with length exceeding 10 metres lines must give way to traffic on a major road. and must stop close to and before this line.

(Note: Mobile cranes require fitting of rear markings only).

50 Vehicle speed limit

Buses, goods vehicles and trailers are required to display a
marking showing the maximum speed in kilometres per
hour at which the vehicle may be driven or, in the case of a
trailer, drawn on a road. Such vehicles must not travel faster
than their vehicle speed limit or the posted road speed limit,
whichever is lower.

(c) Parallel Dashed / Solid White Lines (d) Zebra Crossing

Parallel dashed or solid white lines (will be phased out) Slow down and stop if there are pedestrians or cyclists crossing
accompanied by pedestrian signals (Green Man/Red Man) indicate or about to cross.
a designated crossing. Turning vehicles must give way to
pedestrians when the ‘Green Man’ is lighted.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 34 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 35

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Common Road Markings SIGNS & SIGNALS Common Road Markings

52 Common road markings ALONG the road.

(e) Raised Zebra Crossing (f) Hump

Slow down and stop if there are pedestrians or cyclists crossing or Slow down. (a) Broken White Line (b) Continuous White Line
about to cross. Beware of raised hump. A broken white line is the centre line of a two-way road. Vehicles A continuous white line is the centre line of a two-way road.
should keep to the left of this line. Vehicles should keep to the left of this line. Parking is not
allowed on either side of the road at all times.

Motorists can only cross a single continuous or broken white

line when they can see that the road ahead is clear & it is safe
to do so.

(c) Unbroken Double White Lines

Parallel continuous white lines in the centre of a two-way road
indicate no parking on either side of the road at all times.
Vehicles are also not allowed to cross these lines.

Where continuous double white lines are painted on a road to

separate traffic flowing in opposite directions, you may not
overtake at the double white lines unless you keep entirely to
the left of such lines.

Never cross double white lines. Making a U-turn or a right turn

is not allowed on a road where such lines are painted.

(g) Bus-Friendly Hump

Slow down.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 36 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 37

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Common Road Markings SIGNS & SIGNALS Common Road Markings

(d) Unbroken Yellow Line (e) Unbroken Double Yellow Lines

An unbroken yellow line indicates no parking between 7.00am and Unbroken double yellow lines indicate no parking at all times
7.00pm on that side of the road where the line is drawn, except on on that side of the road where these lines are drawn, except for
Sundays and public holidays. the immediate picking up and letting down of passengers.

(j) School Zone

The sections in brick red indicate a school zone. Slow down and look out for children on the road.

(f) A Single Yellow Zig-Zag Line (g) Double Yellow Zig-Zag Lines
A single yellow zig-zag line indicates No Parking at all times on Double yellow zig-zag lines indicate No Stopping at all times
that side of the road where the line is drawn, except for the on that side of the road where the lines are drawn. Violation of
immediate picking up and letting down of passengers. Violation of this rule attracts demerit points and a fine.
this rule attracts demerit points and a fine.

(h) Broken White Line at Accelerating Lane (i) Broken White Line at Decelerating Lane
A broken white line indicates the edge of a road adjacent to an A broken white line indicates the edge of a road adjacent to a
accelerating lane. turning or decelerating lane.
(k) Yellow Box (l) Chevron Areas
Do not drive into the yellow box when traffic has come to a standstill Chevron markings are used to channel traffic. The white
at the left lane. Give way to vehicles from the side road entering the lines indicate the chevron area. No driving or parking of
main road. vehicles in the chevron area.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 38 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 39

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Common Road Markings SIGNS & SIGNALS Common Road Markings

Bus Lanes
53 Vehicles other than omnibuses, bicycles, emergency service and police vehicles must avoid using the bus lanes during restricted
hours. Non-scheduled buses such as school and factory buses may use the bus lane. However, they are not allowed to stop, pick
up or let their passengers alight along bus lanes.

(c) Bus Priority Box (also known as Mandatory Give-Way to Buses)

The section in yellow indicates a mandatory give-way to buses area. Slow down and watch out for buses pulling out of the bus
bay. Stop before the give way line and give way to buses exiting the bus bay at the location.

(a) Normal Bus Lane

A continuous yellow line and a short horizontal line at intervals indicate a normal bus lane. No driving or parking of vehicles in the bus
lane during the bus lane operational hours - Mondays to Fridays: 7.30am to 9.30am and 5.00pm to 8.00pm, except on Saturdays,
Sundays & Public Holidays. Vehicles can use the bus lane where there is a broken yellow line to turn into a side road or turn from a
side road into the bus lane road.
(d) Enhanced Chevron Zone at Bus-Stop Separator
Bus-stop separator areas are painted red to alert motorists of the presence of merging vehicles from bus-stops. No driving or
parking of vehicles in the enhanced chevron zone.

(b) Full-Day Bus Lane

An additional red line marked parallel to the yellow line indicates
a full-day bus lane. No driving or parking of vehicles in bus lane
during the full-day bus lane operational hours - Mondays to
Saturdays: 7.30am to 11.00pm, except on Sundays & Public
Holidays.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 40 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 41

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Common Road Markings SIGNS & SIGNALS Direction Arrows / Merging Arrow Markings

54 Common road markings ON the road. DIRECTION ARROWS

55 You should only proceed in the directions shown by the arrows.

MERGING ARROW MARKINGS

56 Merging arrows are drawn on the road to give motorists advance warning that two traffic lanes are merging into one traffic lane.
(b) Right-Turn Pocket Alternate vehicles from the two lanes have the right-of-way into the single lane.
(a) Zig-Zag Lines by Side of the Road
Vehicles turning right at road junctions should stay within
Zig-zag lines by the side of the road give advance
the pocket until it is clear to complete the turn.
warning of the presence of a Pedestrian Crossing.
The white zig-zag lines indicate no stopping at all
times on this road. Vehicles should not overtake,
or wait in the vicinity. Pedestrians are also
prohibited from crossing at the zig-zag areas.

(c) Traffic Calming Markings

A series of triangular markings of the side of the road to
create a visually narrowed road to encourage motorists to
slow down.

(d) Dashed Pedestrian Crossing Lines

These lines provide better contrast of the
pedestrian crossing lines with the stop line to
better demarcate the crossing area for
pedestrians. Motorists should comply with the
stop line for pedestrians to cross.

(e) Pedestrian Crossing Ahead Markings

These markings warn motorists of Zebra Crossing ahead.
Motorists should watch out and give way to pedestrians.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 42 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 43

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Signals (Traffic Lights) SIGNS & SIGNALS Signals (Traffic Lights)

SIGNALS (TRAFFIC LIGHTS)

57 Traffic Lights

GREEN ‘B’
Means “GO” for all buses only. This is to allow them to move out of a bus-bay or a side lane and
RED proceed ahead of other vehicles.
Means “STOP”.

ALL RED
Some junctions have an ALL RED period for safety or for pedestrians to cross. This means that all
the approaches are simultaneously showing the red signals. Do not start to move until the green
light appears in your favour.

ADVANCED WARNING LIGHTS

A signal with two “flashing amber” lights, “light signals ahead” sign and a blue “prepare to stop”
sign. It is erected before bends where visibility of the traffic light ahead is unsatisfactory. Vehicles
AMBER should slow down and be prepared to stop.
Means “STOP” unless you are so close to the stop-line when the lights turn AMBER that you
cannot stop safely.

FLASHING AMBER
Means that the traffic light signals are out of order. Proceed with caution. Give way to traffic on
the right.

GREEN
Means “GO”.
Look to the right and left to ensure it is safe before you proceed.

GREEN ARROW AMBER ARROW RED ARROW

Means “GO” in the Means “READY TO Means “STOP” behind the
GREEN ARROW direction indicated. STOP” behind the stop-line in the direction
Means “GO” but only in the direction indicated after ensuring that oncoming traffic is clear. (Turn right) stop-line in the indicated. (Do not turn right
FLICKERING GREEN ARROW direction indicated. even when there is no traffic
Means signal is about to be cancelled. Do not proceed if you have not crossed the stop-line. from the opposite direction)

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 44 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 45

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Signals (Traffic Lights) / Signals (On the Road) SIGNS & SIGNALS Signals Given By A Police Officer

SIGNALS GIVEN BY A POLICE OFFICER

EXAMPLES 59 Signals given by Police Officers directing traffic take precedence over those conveyed by road signs, traffic light signals, road
markings and traffic regulations.

(a)
Vehicles approaching Police Officer from all directions to stop.

Means “GO” for Means “GO” for straight Means “GO” for straight
straight ahead ahead vehicles only. ahead vehicles only.
vehicles and “GO” Vehicles turning right Vehicles turning right must
for right turn must get ready to stop behind the stop line.
vehicles. “STOP”.

SIGNALS (ON THE ROAD)

(b)
(i) Vehicles approaching Police Officer from front and behind to
stop.
(ii) Vehicles approaching from his/her right and left may proceed.

Road Studs in the Day Road Studs at Night

58 Intelligent Road Studs

Blinking devices that are activated when the green man signal comes on. Turning vehicles should watch out and give way to
pedestrians crossing the road.

(c)
(i) Vehicles approaching Police Officer from his/her right, front
and behind to stop.
(ii) Vehicles approaching from his/her left may proceed.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 46 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 47

PART B PART B
SIGNS & SIGNALS Signals Given By A Police Officer SIGNS & SIGNALS Hand Signals

HAND SIGNALS
60 Before you:
(a) Turn or move towards the right/left;
(b) Stop or slow down;
(c) Pull out from a parking place; or
(d) Pull out to pass,
give a clear signal and in good time to let other road users know your intention.

(d) Motorcyclist Cyclist

(i) Vehicles approaching Police Officer from front and
behind to stop.
(ii) Vehicles approaching from his/her right may proceed.
Vehicles approaching from his/her left be ready to stop
- signal is about to change. I intend to move out to
the right or turn right

I intend to move in to
the left or turn left

I intend to slow down

(e) (f)
(i) Vehicles approaching Police Officer from his/her (i) Right-turning vehicles in front of Police Officer
left, front and behind to stop. may proceed.

(ii) Vehicles approaching from his/her right be ready (ii) Vehicles approaching from all other directions to
to stop. Signal is about to change. stop.

55 I intend to stop

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 48 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 49

PART B PART B
TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS The Keep-Left Rules / Lane Discipline / Overtaking TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS Overtaking

THE KEEP-LEFT RULE

61 When driving along two-way streets, keep well to the left and as near as practicable to the boundary of the road, except when you 76 Correct method of overtaking - The 12 steps illustrated below show you the correct method of overtaking another vehicle safely.
intend to overtake or turn right. Do not hog the middle of the road. This applies to dual-carriageways as well.

62 You must not cross the centre line at bends, near the crest of a rise or anywhere else where you cannot clearly see the road ahead.

63 Sometimes your path of travel may be obstructed by road works, parked vehicles etc. In such circumstances, to avoid the 1 CHECK TRAFFIC AHEAD
obstruction, take extra care to ensure that your intended path is safe and clear before you move to the right. You may cross the
centre line if the roads are narrow.

LANE DISCIPLINE
2 CHECK TRAFFIC BEHIND
64 You must obey the directions indicated by arrows marked in the lanes. See illustration below. You must not change lanes suddenly
as you may inconvenience or endanger other motorists. When changing lanes, give sufficient warning of your intention. Always
signal in advance. Failure to do so could cause an accident. 3 SIGNAL RIGHT
65 In traffic hold-ups, do not “jump the queue”. Trying to get
ahead of others by squeezing between lanes and overtaking
recklessly is courting disaster. Always be patient and have 4 CHECK BLIND SPOT
consideration for other road users.

66 Well before you reach a junction, make sure that you get into
the correct lane for whichever direction you wish to take. 5 MOVE RIGHT
67 On a two-lane carriageway, keep to the lefthand lane except
when overtaking.
6 ACCELERATE
68 On a three-lane carriageway, you may keep to the centre lane
when the left-hand lane is occupied by slower moving
vehicles. The outer (right-hand) lane is for overtaking and
emergency vehicles only. 7 TAP HORN (if necessary)

OVERTAKING
69 Never overtake unless you can do so without endangering yourself or others. Be especially careful at night, and in heavy rain and
mist. When visibility is poor, it becomes more difficult to judge speed and distance.
8 CHECK MIRROR

70 Always overtake on the right. There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule when you can overtake on the left:
(a) When the driver in front has signalled his/her intention to turn right. 9 SIGNAL LEFT
(b) When you want to turn left at a junction.
(c) When traffic is moving slowly in queues and vehicles in the lanes on your right are moving more slowly than you are.
(d) On one-way streets (but not dual-carriageways) where vehicles may pass on either side.
10 MOVE LEFT
71 After overtaking, return to the appropriate lane on the road as soon as it is safe to do so, but do not cut in sharply in front of the
vehicle you have just overtaken.

72 Do not overtake when you are at, or when you are approaching:
11 CANCEL SIGNAL
(a) A pedestrian crossing.
(b) A road junction.
(c) A corner or bend. 12 RESUME NORMAL SPEED
(d) The brow of a hill.
(e) Double white lines.

73 Do not overtake:
(a) Where the road narrows.
(b) If it would force another vehicle to swerve or reduce speed.
(c) If in doubt.

74 Do not increase your speed while being overtaken. Slow down if necessary to let the overtaking vehicle pass.

75 In the following cases, overtaking is dangerous and should not be attempted:

(a) When the car in front of you is about to overtake the car in front of it.
(b) When the car in front is changing from the left to the right lane in order to make a right turn.
(c) When you have to get into the path of oncoming traffic in order to overtake.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 50 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 51

PART B Road-Hogging / Speed Limits / PART B
TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS The “Give Way Rule” At Road Junctions TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS The “Give Way Rule” At Road Junctions / Roundabouts

ROAD-HOGGING 82 At a junction, look right, then left, then right again. Do not proceed until you are sure that it is safe to do so. Do not rely on signals
77 Road-Hogging is driving at an unreasonably slow speed on the road especially on the right-hand or along the centre of the road. to go ahead given by unauthorised persons.
Road-Hogging hinders the flow of traffic behind and may cause other vehicles to pass dangerously on the left. Motorists who
travel at a slow speed should keep to the left side of the road; this applies especially to small capacity motorcycles, goods vehicles 83 Well before you turn right at a junction, take full account of the position and movement of traffic behind you. When it is safe to
and lorries. You should only use the right hand lane when overtaking or when you are about to turn right or make a U-turn. do so, signal your intention and take up a position just left of the middle of a two-way street or to the extreme right lane of a one-
way street. Wait there until there is a safe distance between you and any approaching vehicle before you complete your turn.
SPEED LIMITS
78 Unless otherwise stated, the speed limit of all roads in Singapore is 50 km/h. Do not exceed the speed limit of your vehicle or the 84 When turning right into a two-way street, turn into the lane just left of the centre line of the road you are turning into.
road, whichever is the lesser.
85 When turning right into a one-way street, turn into the extreme right lane of the road you are turning into.
79 Always obey the “Reduce Speed Now” sign.
86 If you intend to turn left, keep to the left, signal in good time, and do not swing out to the right before or after making the turn.
THE ‘GIVE WAY’ RULE AT ROAD JUNCTIONS 87 When a vehicle turns, the rear nearside wheel tends to pull closer to the kerb. So when making a turn, take special care not to
80 When approaching a junction with a major road, slow down gradually and give way to traffic on the major road. Where there is brush against pedestrians, bicycles or motorcycles.
a “STOP” sign, stop before the stop-line.

81 At an uncontrolled junction where there are no traffic lights, “GIVE WAY” sign or “STOP” sign:
(a) If you are going straight across the junction, you must give way to traffic going straight from the right.

Notice the wide difference between

the arcs that the front and rear
nearside wheels take when making
a turn.

ROUNDABOUTS
88 Slow down when approaching a roundabout and give way to traffic on your right.
(b) If you are turning right, you must give way to traffic going straight from all directions, as well as traffic turning right from
the right and traffic turning left from the opposite direction. 89 The general rule is that:
(a) traffic from lane A as in the illustration goes to ‘A’.
(b) traffic from lane B goes to ‘B’.
(c) traffic from lane C goes to ‘C’.

(c) If you are turning left, you must give way to traffic going straight from the right.

REMEMBER - Traffic coming from your right takes priority over you.

Rules for Motorists

You must always give way to traffic approaching from your right. You are advised to exercise caution at all times, and decide as
early as possible which exit you need to take. Take note of and act on all the information available to you from traffic signs, traffic
lights and road markings that direct you into the correct lane. Always remember that you have to:-
(a) Give clear signals showing your intention in good time;
(b) Obey the right-hand rule;
(c) Not inconvenience other drivers;
(d) Use your mirror intelligently to see that you do not obstruct the path of vehicles behind you; and
(e) Show consideration to other road users in the interest of road safety.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 52 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 53

PART B PART B
TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS Driving On Expressways / Yellow-Box Junctions TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS Yellow-Box Junctions

DRIVING ON EXPRESSWAYS (b) Situation Two

90 Do not drive, move or stop on road shoulder or verge unless in the event of a breakdown, accident or emergency. The second situation is when motorists are waiting in the yellow box while trying to turn right in the face of oncoming traffic.
Drivers of vehicles marked A, B and C can remain in the box until a suitable opportunity arises for them to complete their turns.
91 Vehicles which have a speed limit of 60 km/h and below shall be driven along the left hand lane of the expressway. Should the lights turn red against them, they should proceed to complete their turn and clear the yellow box junction.

92 Cycling, skating and walking are prohibited on expressways.

YELLOW-BOX JUNCTIONS
93 It is an offence for any driver to drive his/her vehicle into a junction marked with a yellow box and cause obstruction even if the
lights are in his/her favour. However, there are certain situations in which a driver or rider will not be penalised for entering the
yellow-box junction.

(a) Situation One

The first is when the turning vehicles in a box-junction do not block other vehicles. Only drivers of turning vehicles A, B and C
and NOT those marked X may enter the yellow box when their exit lanes from it are blocked by other vehicles. Should the traffic
lights change to red, vehicles A, B and C would not cause any obstruction to other vehicles. However, vehicles marked X would
be obstructing traffic should the lights change and the drivers will be penalised, as such they should wait behind the stop-line at
‘Y’.

(c) Situation Three

The third situation is when motorists are waiting in a yellow box junction while making left or right turns because of pedestrians
crossing the road. The diagram shows that the drivers of vehicles A, B, C, D and E may enter the yellow box even when they are
prevented from executing their turns by pedestrians using the crossings.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 54 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 55

PART B PART B
TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS U-Turns / Stopping And Parking TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS Seat Belts / Lights

U-TURNS SEAT BELTS

94 Do not make a U-turn at any road 101 All persons travelling in vehicles, irrespective of their age,
intersection, junction or any opening in a should be appropriately belted up. Adults below the height of
road divider except where a U-turn sign is 1.35m shall use booster seats or approved adjustable seat belts
located. to lower the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

95 Always negotiate a U-turn carefully, 102 A composition fine of $120 and 3 demerit points will be
especially if roadside trees or hedges are awarded for failing to belt up.
obstructing your view of oncoming traffic.
As you turn, be alert for any vehicles,
especially motorcycles, which may be
turning together with you on your right.

STOPPING AND PARKING LIGHTS

96 Do not park or let your vehicle wait: 103 At night (between 7.00pm and 7.00am) you must drive with your headlights on.
(a) At a bend, the brow of a hill or a bridge.
104 At night always drive well within the limits of your
(b) On a footway or cycle track. headlights. Beware of pedestrians standing on the central
(c) Near traffic lights or pedestrian divider because it is difficult to see them when dazzled by the
crossings. lights of oncoming vehicles.
(d) On a main road or on a road carrying fast
moving traffic. 105 Use dipped headlights at night in built-up areas and during
(e) Opposite or nearly opposite another rainy weather.
stationary vehicle across the road, or
Pedestrian is invisible to driver
other obstructions (eg. road repairs).
(f) Abreast of another vehicle. 106 On unlit roads always use your high beam. Dip your headlights when meeting other vehicles and cyclists. If you are dazzled by
(g) Within 6 metres (20 feet) of an intersection or junction of any road or street (as shown in the diagram below). the lights of another vehicle, slow down and stop if necessary.
(h) Within 9 metres (30 feet) of a bus stop (from the edge of a yellow demarcated box or from the tip of a bus bay except when
the vehicle breaks down owing to a defect in the vehicle or its tyres).
(i) Within 3 meters (10 feet) on either side of fire hydrant.
(j) Where it will obstruct any entrance.
(k) Facing oncoming traffic.
(l) Along any slip road.
(m) On a flyover, underpass or ramp leading to a
flyover or underpass.
(n) On a grass verge or on a road shoulder.
(o) In any bus lane.
(p) In any designated taxi stop (except taxis).
(q) In any taxi stand (except taxis).
(r) In any bus terminus (except omnibuses).
(s) Within “No Waiting” zone
(t) Within “No Stopping” zone

(Note: Parking means to bring the vehicle to a stationary position and cause it to wait other than for the immediate picking up or
letting down of passengers.) 107 Dip your headlights when driving behind other vehicles.

97 Before opening a door of a vehicle, make sure that it will not endanger or inconvenience anybody on the road or foot-path. Get
out on the side nearest to the kerb whenever it is possible.

98 When you have to stop, pull in as close as possible to the edge of the road.

99 Whenever you park, remember to:

(a) Turn off the engine and engage the hand-brake.
(b) Put your car into reverse gear if facing downhill and into low gear if facing uphill.
(c) Remove the ignition key.
(d) Lock the steering mechanism or activate the burglar alarm if your car is fitted with one.
(e) Wind up the windows and lock the doors.
(f) Keep your valuables in the boot or in a place where they cannot be seen.

100 Remember that you are not allowed to leave any broken-down or wrecked vehicle on any public road. If your vehicle breaks down
on the road, push it into a break-down bay or as close to the side of the road as possible. Switch on the hazard warning lights even
during daylight and place a reflective warning triangle at least 20 metres behind the vehicle. Arrange for it to be towed away
immediately so as not to cause obstruction to the flow of traffic.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 56 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 57

PART B Lights / Alcohol / PART B

TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS Light Goods Vehicles / Height Limits TRAFFIC RULES & REGULATIONS Use Of Mobile Communication Device While Driving

108 In the daytime whenever visibility is poor or if it is raining, switch on your headlights. This is to enable other road users to see USE OF MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE WHILE DRIVING
your vehicle. Switching on your headlights will not in any way affect your fuel consumption. (“Use”, in relation to a mobile communication device, means to hold it in at least one hand while operating any of its functions)

109 It is advisable when parking in unlit or poorly lit roads at night to leave your side or parking lights on. 124 It is an offence to use a mobile communication devices [including mobile telephone and any hand held devices (e.g. tablets,
walkie-talkies, handheld gaming consoles, etc) which are designed or capable of being used for a communicative function) when
110 Try not to look directly at the headlights of oncoming vehicles but direct your vision slightly to the left. This technique can save
driving. Should you need to use the mobile communication device while driving, you should drive to a safe place such as a carpark
you from momentary blindness.
and use it when you are stationary. Communicative function, in this context, refers to any of the following functions:
111 Always keep a look-out for flashes from the brake lights of vehicles in front. (a) Sending or receiving oral or written messages;
(b) Sending or receiving electronic documents;
112 When approaching a curve or intersection with poor visibility, it is a good idea to flash your headlights to let pedestrians and (c) Sending or receiving still or moving images;
oncoming cyclists and motorists know that you are heading into the curve or intersection. (d) Sending or receiving audio or video files; and
(e) Providing access to the internet
113 It is unsafe to drive with the interior lights on as they reduce your external visibility. Motorcyclists are required to switch on their
headlights throughout the day.
125 Any driver caught using a mobile communication device whilst driving will be charged in court. The penalty for this offence is a
fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months, or both. The offender’s driving licence is also likely to be
ALCOHOL disqualified.
114 Alcohol, when even a small quantity has been consumed, makes you less safe on the roads. The safe rule is IF YOU DRINK,
DON’T DRIVE. The same applies to drugs even when taken medicinally. 126 Typical scenarios of using a mobile communication device while driving includes driving with one hand holding a mobile
communication device and communicating with another person on that device while the vehicle is in motion; texting with a mobile
115 The prescribed legal limit for blood alcohol content is 80 milligrammes (mg) of alcohol per 100 millilitres (ml) of blood while communication device, dialling a phone number or pressing a button to receive a call while holding the mobile communication
that for breath is 35 microgrammes (ug) of alcohol per 100 millilitres (ml) of breath. Any person caught driving with blood or device are also against the law. Using hands free devices, such as wireless or wired headsets, is acceptable unless the driver is
breath alcohol content which exceeds the prescribed limit will be charged in court for drink driving. A person can also be charged holding on to the mobile communication device while using the hands free device while the vehicle is in motion.
for drink driving even when the blood or breath alcohol content is below the legal limit if there is evidence to show that he/she
was unable to control the vehicle because of alcoholic intoxication. The penalty for drink driving is a fine of between $1,000 and In short, an offence is committed if the driver satisfies all the 3 conditions below:
$5,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months. There is also a mandatory 1-year disqualification in respect of the offender’s
(a) At least one hand is holding a mobile communication device; and
driving licence. A repeat offender will face a mandatory jail sentence not exceeding 1 year.
(b) Driver is using any function of the mobile communication device; and
LIGHT GOODS VEHICLES (c) The motor vehicle is in motion.
116 All lorries used for carrying workers on the carriage deck must be fitted with canopies and higher side railings.

117 The load on any vehicle on a road should always be securely fastened.

118 The front passenger seat(s) in the lorry’s cabin must be occupied before workers can be carried on the rear carriage deck.

119 Lorry owners who wish to use their lorries to carry their workers must display a Maximum Passenger Capacity (MPC) label on
the right side of the lorry’s rear tailboard indicating the maximum number of workers that can be transported when the carriage
deck is empty.

120 For safety, when workers are carried in lorries, they should be made to sit down properly and the maximum allowable height of
a seated worker shall not be more than 1.1 metres measured from the carriage deck.

121 The vehicle must not carry an excess number of workers based on the minimum deck space requirement of 0.372 square metres
(or 4 square feet) per seated worker. If goods or equipment are also transported, the number of workers that may be carried is to
be reduced according to the remaining floor area available.

122 When transporting workers on the carriage deck, the vehicle must not travel faster than the posted road speed limit or the vehicle
speed limit of 60 km/h, whichever is lower.

HEIGHT LIMITS
123 Anyone who drives a vehicle with overall height exceeding 4.5m without police escort is committing an offence.

Avoid collision with an overhead structure in 4 steps

(a) Ensure vehicle height is less than 4.5m. Apply for a police escort if vehicle height exceeds 4.5m.
(b) Plan your route before driving off.
(c) Obey speed and height limits.
(d) Stop and seek alternative route if you:
(i) are diverted from your original route
(ii) are lost
(iii) realise that your route is obstructed by a road structure lower than your vehicle’s height during your journey.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 58 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 59

PART B Moving Off / Mirrors And Signals / PART B
CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD Driving Along / Tailgating / Safe Following Distance CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD The ‘Two-Second’ Rule / Stopping Distance

MOVING OFF THE ‘TWO-SECOND’ RULE

127 Before you move off, fasten your seat belt and look in the mirrors. Give the proper signal, look around to check on traffic and 135 A simple way to ensure a safe gap between you and the vehicle in front is to use the ‘two-second’ rule. As the vehicle in front of
pedestrians. Move off only when you can do so safely and without causing inconvenience to other road users. Give way to passing you passes a stationary object, such as a lamp post on the side of the road, start counting to yourself ‘one-thousand-and-one, one
and overtaking vehicles. thousand-and-two’. This will take you 2 seconds. If you reach the same spot before you finish these eight words, you are following
too closely and it is necessary to slow down. This rule will keep you at a safe following distance and will apply to all types of
MIRRORS AND SIGNALS vehicles at any speed.
128 Mirrors should be checked before moving off, slowing down, stopping, changing lane, overtaking and making any turn. You
should also cultivate the habit of checking the mirrors every 5 to 10 seconds while driving along.

129 The areas on the right and left of your vehicle which cannot be viewed in your mirrors are known as “blind spots”. You have to
turn your head and look over your shoulder to the left or the right to check for traffic in the “blind spots” before changing lane,
overtaking, turning and stopping.

130 Always give clear signals well in advance of your intentions (at least 3 seconds) before your manoeuvre so that other road users
can interact safely.

DRIVING ALONG
131 Constantly adjust your speed to the conditions of the road on which you are travelling. Such adjustment will enable you to stop
in any emergency without skidding or losing control of your vehicle.

132 A good driver automatically reduces speed when:

(Vehicle ‘A’ does not pass the lamp post before counting “one-thousand-and-one, one-thousand-and-two”. Thus vehicle
‘A’ is at a safe following distance from vehicle ‘B’)
(a) Entering a built-up area.
(b) Approaching a school or a stationary bus with children alighting from or boarding it.
136 Always watch for the brake lights of the car immediately in front and the traffic ahead of the car in front.
(c) Travelling on narrow winding roads.
(d) Approaching children who are playing.
(e) Approaching a bend, brow of a hill, or other obstruction that limits his/her view. STOPPING DISTANCE
(f) The road surface is wet. 137 It takes a longer distance to stop a moving vehicle than most people think. It is therefore prudent to study the chart below and
remember that your stopping distance is approximately the sum of your reaction distance and braking distance. These distances
will increase with the driving speeds of your vehicle.
TAILGATING
133 Tailgating, or following too closely behind another vehicle is a dangerous practice. If the vehicle in front stops suddenly, an
accident is inevitable since you will not be able to stop in time. Tailgating also makes the driver in front nervous and can cause
him/her to be involved in an accident.

SAFE FOLLOWING DISTANCE

134 To be able to stop with an appropriate space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front, you must allow at least one car length
for every 16km/h of your speed.

48km/h

64km/h

80km/h

138 The braking distance will also increase when the road is wet, or if the tyre treads are worn, or when the car is fully loaded. Reaction
time will also increase if a driver is tired or if he/she has consumed alcohol.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 60 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 61

PART B Reversing / Safety of Pedestrians And Cyclists/ PART B

CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD Emergency Vehicles / General Safe Driving CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD General Safe Driving

REVERSING 155 HOW TO REACT TO ANIMALS CROSSING THE ROAD

139 Before you reverse, make sure that there are no children or other pedestrians or obstructions in the blind areas behind you. (a) Slow down when driving next to nature areas, and where wildlife crossings are indicated.
(b) Be alert and slow down if you see any animals crossing the road ahead of you.
140 Do not reverse from a side road/minor road into a main road. (c) Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk as this is the peak period for animal movements.
(d) Scan the road shoulders ahead of you. Look for reflecting eyes or animals walking along the side of the road.
141 If your view to the rear is restricted, get help when reversing.
(e) Even though animals may be walking along the side of the road as your vehicle approaches, they may panic and attempt to
SAFETY OF PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS flee by crossing the road. Slow down as you approach.
142 Pedestrians have the right-of-way at Pedestrian Crossings. (f) If collision with the animal is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane.
(g) If you have a collision with an animal and it is causing an obstruction to other road users; you are required to stop your
143 When approaching a pedestrian crossing, slow down and do not overtake other vehicles. vehicle, turn on your hazard light and notify the Traffic Police at 999.
(h) Refrain from touching or moving the injured animal unless you are confident to do so; as it may still be able to defend
144 When approaching a pedestrian crossing, ALWAYS – itself. In the event you are able to move the animal place it at the road shoulder or grass verge ensuring it does not cause any
(a) be ready to slow down or stop so as to give way to pedestrians; further obstruction to road users. Update Traffic Police at 999 once you have successfully moved the animal.
(b) signal to other drivers your intention to slow down or stop;
(c) allow yourself more time to stop when the road is wet. 156 DRIVING ALONG
(a) Adjust your speed to the speed of the traffic around you so as not to slow down traffic behind you (road hogging). Even when
145 At a pedestrian crossing controlled by traffic signals or by a policeman, give way to pedestrians who are still crossing even when you are driving on the left hand side of the roadway, do not drive slowly at below 15km/h of the stipulated speed limits of the
the signal allows vehicles to move. road.
(b) It is courteous to give the right-of-way to others when circumstances permit.
146 Stop, when signalled to do so by a school patrol warden showing a “STOP-Children” sign.
(c) When right-of-way is given to you, it is gracious to show a ‘thank you’ hand gesture.
147 Watch for pedestrians who come out suddenly from behind stationary vehicles and other obstructions. Be very careful near schools (d) When driving in countries with left-hand drive vehicles, do familiarise yourself with the traffic rules and regulations by
and bus stops. reading up on the Highway Code of that country. New drivers are to gradually familiarise themselves with the road conditions
in countries with Left Hand Drive if they plan to drive in those countries.
148 Pedestrians using rural roads tend to be less “road-wise”. Watch out for them.
157 SIGNALLING
149 When you are passing a pedestrian or cyclist, always maintain as wide a distance from him/her as possible and drive slowly.
(a) Give appropriate signals early to allow others to act on them in time.
150 When driving across a muddy section of the road or through a puddle, you should slow down to avoid splashing muddy water (b) Cancel your signals when they are not in use so as not to confuse others.
onto pedestrians.
158 USE OF HORN
EMERGENCY VEHICLES (a) Sound the horn only to warn other road users of dangers such as a likely collision.
151 Ambulances ferry the sick and injured to hospitals. Fire Engines help put out fires, and Police Vehicles carry police personnel (b) Do not use the horn to express anger or frustration.
whose presence is much needed in an emergency. Obstructing the passage of any such vehicle could mean the difference between (c) Do not use the horn to demand the right-of-way or bull doze your way through crowded places.
life and death for someone, somewhere. If you encounter any of them on the road with sirens and/or seeing the flashing beacon (d) Sounding your horn when driving is unnecessary, except as a warning. In some areas e.g. near a school or hospital, it is an
lights, give way by pulling in to the left or right side of the road depending on the circumstances. offence to use the horn, except to avoid an accident.
DO
159 LANE DISCIPLINE
(a) Pull to the nearest edge of the roadway and come to a complete stop if necessary, until all emergency vehicles have passed.
(a) Keep to the left of the road and leave the other lanes for other faster moving vehicles to pass safely.
(b) Be alert to the approach of an emergency vehicle.
(b) Keep within your lane. It is inconsiderate to straddle lanes as this would obstruct other vehicles and may lead to traffic being
(c) Switch on your direction signal when pulling off the road. This sends a message to the emergency vehicle operator that the
held up.
driver is aware of his/her presence.
(c) Do not weave in and out of traffic lanes as it would cause confusion and danger to others.
DO NOT (d) Cutting into the path of other vehicles is discourteous/inconsiderate and likely to cause an accident and road rage.
(a) Block any intersection (even when attempting to give way to an emergency vehicle), as it is dangerous.
(b) Follow closely behind an emergency vehicle responding to an emergency. 160 AT ROAD JUNCTIONS
(c) Stop on a bridge, curve or crest of a hill; instead, switch on your directional signal and proceed forward until you can safely (a) Move into the correct lane early at road junctions to let others know your intended direction of travel.
pull over and come to a complete stop. (b) When making right turns, position your vehicle properly so that it does not hinder oncoming vehicles.
(d) Slam on your brakes or stop directly in front of an emergency vehicle.
161 IN TRAFFIC QUEUES
(a) Stay in queue during traffic hold-ups. Do not jump queue. Jumping queue is discourteous/inconsiderate and would aggravate
GENERAL SAFE DRIVING
152 When you are driving, keep your attention on the road ahead, except for necessary and frequent glances at the rear view mirror, the traffic jam.
wing mirrors and panel of the car. Do not turn your head to talk to your passengers or to light a cigarette. Children should not be (b) Leave a gap at the junction to a side road to enable vehicles from the opposite direction to turn right as well as for vehicles
allowed to obstruct or distract the driver and parents should train them not to do so. from the side road to move out.

153 Be careful when driving on steel plates laid on unfinished roadworks because these are extremely slippery, especially when they 162 OVERTAKING
are wet. (a) Overtake only when it is absolutely necessary.
(b) Overtake only when you are sure that there are no other vehicles attempting to pass or overtake you.
154 Avoid driving through floods as there is a danger that brake malfunction may subsequently occur. If unavoidable, pump the brake
(c) Slow down and keep left when being overtaken to allow the overtaking vehicle to pass quickly.
pedal repeatedly after emerging from flood waters so as to dry the brakes.
(d) Accelerating when others are trying to overtake you is unsafe and discourteous.
(e) Cutting into the path of another vehicle after overtaking it is discourteous and likely to anger the driver and cause an accident.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 62 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 63

PART B General Safe Driving / PART B
CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD Safe Driving Technique (Defensive Driving Technique) CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD Safe Driving Technique (Defensive Driving Technique)

163 FOLLOWING DISTANCE 171 DRIVER CONDITIONS

(a) Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front so as to allow yourself enough room to stop safely should the vehicle Your physical and mental condition can affect your driving. These conditions are:
in front stop abruptly. (a) Your vision,
(b) Your physical health,
(b) Do not harass the vehicle in front by tailgating it. This is a dangerous practice which could easily lead to an accident.
(c) Your mental state,
(c) Flashing your headlights or blasting the horn at slower moving vehicles in front of you is rude. (d) Consumption of alcohol and drugs.

164 STOPPING AND PARKING 172 Eighty percent (80%) of information perceived while driving comes through the driver’s eyes. It is therefore important that you
(a) Always stop or park close to the edge of the road. make optimal use of your eyes when driving. Do not fix your eyes on a particular object for longer than necessary. Keep moving
(b) Always stop or park at places where you would not cause any inconvenience to other road users. your eyes about every two seconds or so. Also, take regular glances at the rear view mirrors every five to ten seconds so that you
(c) Do not stop your vehicle under a shaded spot which is at a distance from a junction while waiting for the traffic signal to are aware of the changing situation around you. As the vehicle speed increases, your field of vision would be reduced.
change. This is a selfish act and slows down traffic at the junction.
(d) When parking your vehicle in a parking lot, be considerate by parking your vehicle parallel to and in the centre of the lot. 173 Tiredness, giddiness and being unwell can affect your concentration on the road. If you feel unwell or tired, do not drive.
(e) Wait for your turn when looking for a parking lot. It is rude to jump queue or force your way into a lot when another vehicle
174 Anger, worry and stress can also reduce concentration and may lead to rash or careless driving on the road.
is trying to get into the parking lot.
175 Consumption of alcohol and certain types of drugs affect your judgement, concentration and reaction time. If you are on
165 LIGHTS medication, check with your doctor whether the prescribed medicine you are taking will affect your driving ability. If so, do not
(a) Do not drive if your vehicle’s headlamps, tail-lamps and/or direction indicators are not working. drive. It is also unsafe for you to drive if you have consumed alcohol.
(b) Dip your headlights when following other vehicles or when facing oncoming vehicles, so as to prevent dazzling the drivers
of other vehicles. 176 It is an offence for a person to drive or attempt to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. If a driver is suspected to
(c) In the daytime when visibility is poor, you should turn on the headlights so that you can see and be seen more easily. be under the influence of alcohol, he/she will be required to undergo a breath analyser test. A person with a BAC (Blood Alcohol
Concentration) exceeding 80mg per 100ml of blood is presumed incapable of controlling his/her vehicle properly.
166 PEDESTRIANS (ESPECIALLY THE YOUNG AND ELDERLY), CYCLISTS AND MOTORCYCLISTS
177 WEATHER CONDITIONS
(a) Give pedestrians (especially the young and elderly), cyclists and motorcyclists plenty of room from your vehicle as they might Adverse weather conditions affect your ability to see and be seen.
change direction suddenly. These conditions are:-
(b) Do not sound the horn when you are close to pedestrians as you might scare and cause them to react irrationally, resulting in
an accident.
(c) Do not obstruct pedestrians by stopping on the pedestrian crossing.
(d) On wet roads, slow down when you are near pedestrians and cyclists so as not to splash them with water from the road.
(e) It is not safe to pass a cyclist, be patient and wait until it is safe. This should not hold you up for long and it may save the
cyclist’s life.
(f) If a cyclist is ahead of you and you want to turn, turn behind the cyclist. Overtaking and cutting off the cyclist is very
dangerous. If and when you do need to overtake cyclists, always ensure that there is ample room from your vehicle when
overtaking (this is especially so for drivers of heavy or large vehicles), and do not merge sharply into lanes.
(g) Always check your blind spot before changing lanes, making turns or moving from a stationary position. RAIN FLOOD STRONG WINDS
(h) Always check for cyclists before opening the vehicle door.
(i) Signal early to inform other road users and cyclists of the direction in which you are heading. 178 The basic rules to follow when driving in bad weather conditions are:
(j) When approaching road crossings, look out for cyclists and pedestrians. (a) Reduce your speed so that you can manoeuvre safely.
(k) Always stop to render assistance and exchange particulars when involved in an accident. (b) Do not out-drive the actual distance that you can see clearly.
(l) Do not expect cyclists to cycle all the way to the left next to the kerb, because their pedals may hit the kerb and there are (c) Switch on your headlights so that you can see more clearly and be more visible.
usually drain holes at the side where their tyres could get stuck in and cyclist could lose balance. (d) Turn on the demister to clear the mist on the windscreen.
(e) Move to a safe spot and stop at the side of the road with your hazard lights turned on if you cannot see clearly. Proceed when
167 PATIENCE conditions are favourable.
(a) Always be patient. Do not rush or lose your cool on the road. (f) Use a faster front windscreen wiper speed when driving in heavy rain.
(b) It is not gracious to show any provocative gesture when other drivers do something wrong or cause inconvenience to you. No
one would deliberately get himself/herself involved in an accident. 179 On a wet road, the stopping distance of a vehicle will increase to about twice the distance of that on a dry road. This is because
there is less friction between the tyres and the wet road surface. On a wet road, stepping hard on the brake pedal (locking the
168 TO ERR IS HUMAN; APOLOGISE AND FORGIVE wheels) will cause the vehicle to skid or spin. If you lock the wheels accidentally, quickly release the brake pedal and apply the
Indicate that you are sorry when you have caused inconvenience to others. This will soothe the other driver. intermittent (ON/OFF) braking technique until the vehicle comes to a stop. Thus, on a wet road, it is important that you drive at
a slower speed to avoid such dangerous circumstances.
SAFE DRIVING TECHNIQUE (DEFENSIVE DRIVING TECHNIQUE)
169 Safe/Defensive driving technique:
Driving safely and competently demands the total involvement of most of your senses. It is not enough to gain physical mastery
of the vehicle without cultivating an awareness of the environment. A good driver can interpret, anticipate and act unhesitatingly
under adverse driving conditions.

170 Adverse conditions include:

(a) Driver conditions
(b) Weather conditions
(c) Light conditions
(d) Road conditions
(e) Traffic conditions

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 64 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 65

PART B PART B
CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD Safe Driving Technique (Defensive Driving Technique) CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD Safe Driving Technique (Defensive Driving Technique)

180 On a rainy day, a thin layer of water forms on the road surface. Even good
tyres may not have a good grip on the road. As speed increases, surface water
builds up under the vehicle’s tyres. When this happens, your vehicle will 189 When the headlight of an oncoming vehicle dazzles you, look to your left to
glide on the surface of the road, and this is known as ‘Aquaplaning’. avoid the glare. Use the edge of the road to guide your vehicle. If the light is
blinding, slow down and stop by the side of the road.
181 Aquaplaning results in the loss of steering control and braking efficiency.
The faster you go, the more difficult it will be to control the vehicle. To
counter this, you should slow down by braking intermittently (on/off
braking) until you gain control of your vehicle.
190 When facing oncoming traffic, dip your headlights.

182 When approaching a road that is flooded but passable to vehicles, engage a
lower gear to go through the flood

183 After passing through water, the brakes become ineffective. To dry the
brakes, pump the brake pedal repeatedly until braking action returns.

184 You can also dry the brakes by gently depressing the brake pedal with your
left foot while pressing the accelerator with the right foot.

185 At night, the depth of flood water can be deceptive. If in doubt, take an alternative route.
191 Dip your headlight when you are immediately behind another vehicle. If not, the beam from your headlight will be reflected by
the rear view mirror of the car in front and dazzle the driver.
186 Stretches of open highways are usually subjected to strong winds. To avoid the danger of being forced into the path of other traffic
by the wind, you should slow down and drive cautiously.

187 LIGHT CONDITIONS

Too much or too little light will affect our ability to see. Sun-glare or light reflected off objects or a pool of water on the road
can dazzle and even blind our vision. You should wear sunglasses or lower the sun-visor when it is very bright.

192 On approaching bends where visibility is poor, use your high beam. This will attract the attention of other road users and warn
them of your approach.

188 Switch on your headlights from 7pm to 7am. Drive at a slower speed than you would during the day.

193 It is safer not to out-drive your normal headlight range. The average headlight on high beam is about 100 metres.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 66 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 67

PART B PART B Safe Driving Technique (Defensive Driving Technique) /
CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD Safe Driving Technique (Defensive Driving Technique) CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD Stopping And Moving Off At Traffic Light Junctions

194 ROAD CONDITIONS 199 TRAFFIC CONDITIONS

A good driver should know how to read and adjust his/her speed accordingly to suit the road conditions, such as: Traffic conditions vary depending on time, place and situation. Traffic may be congested or relatively light. The speed of other
(a) The width of the road; vehicles also varies. Try to drive with the traffic in order not to disrupt its flow.
(b) The kind of road surface he/she is driving on;
200 Adjust your speed to the traffic and road situation. Situations change as you travel from urban built-up areas to sub-urban and
(c) The contour of the road;
then to rural areas.
(d) The possible danger of hazards ahead.

195 On a sandy or pebbled surface, there is a greater risk of ‘side slipping’. Try
to avoid hard acceleration, braking and sudden sharp turning of the steering
wheel.

URBAN SUB-URBAN RURAL

196 If the rear of your vehicle skids side way, remove the foot from the
accelerator at once. Never apply the brakes during a skid correction, steer in 201 In urban areas, traffic is slow and heavy. Traffic is faster and lighter in suburban areas. In rural areas, traffic is generally light.
the direction of the skid. Whatever the traffic conditions, the driver has the responsibility to be careful and alert at all times.

202 DRIVING OVERSEAS

Most countries in Europe adopt a left hand drive system, ie. you’ll find the steering wheel on the other side of the car.

For more information on overseas driving tips, please refer to the Automobile Association of Singapore’s website. Being prepared
will allow you to drive more confidently.

STOPPING AND MOVING OFF AT TRAFFIC LIGHT JUNCTIONS

203 (a) WHEN STOPPING
DO’s DON’Ts
1. Stop before and close to the stop-line. 1. Stop beyond or too far from the stopline.
2. Leave a safety gap of 2 metres between your vehicle and 2. Stop less than 2 metres behind the vehicle in front.
the vehicle in front. 3. While waiting for the lights to change,
3. Apply the handbrake after stopping. a. read newspapers, magazines, etc.
4. Be alert to the traffic around you while waiting for the b. sip drinks,
(a) On roads with uneven surfaces, drive slowly. (b) If you encounter large pot-holes, reduce your lights to change. c. adjust the car audio system,
speed further and proceed slowly. 5. Position your vehicle in the centre of the lane. d. use the car-phone,
197 When driving round a bend or sharp corner at high speed, your vehicle tends to be pushed out of its path of travel by a force called e. rev the engine.
the Centrifugal Force. 4. ‘Inch’ forward while waiting for the lights to change.
5. Stop under shades which are far from the junction.
6. Allow passengers to alight or board your vehicle.
7. Stop suddenly.

(b) WHEN MOVING OFF

DO’s DON’Ts
1. Move only when the lights turn ‘green’. 1. Move off before the lights change even though there
2. Look to the right and left for approaching vehicles before are no approaching vehicles.
moving. 2. Accelerate harshly.
3. Look out for pedestrians crossing the road in front of you. 3. Move before it is safe to proceed.
4. Wait 2 secs after the vehicle in front has moved off, 4. Change your direction of travel.
before proceeding. 5. Overtake slow moving vehicles in front of you.
5. Proceed only in the direction indicated on the lane. 6. Weave past pedestrians crossing the road.
6. Give way to vehicles beating the lights.
198 The greater the travelling speed around the curve or the sharper the curve,
the more the vehicle will be pushed from its path. You should therefore
reduce speed when going round a bend. The diagram on the right shows the
appropriate speed and the dangerous speed for each turning radius.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 68 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 69

PART B PART B
CODE OF CONDUCT ON THE ROAD Roadworthiness PARTS AND CONTROLS OF A CAR Front View / Rear View

ROADWORTHINESS FRONT VIEW

204 Maintain your vehicle in a roadworthy condition. You should pay attention to the following matters in regard to
maintenance, which if attended to, could prevent accidents.

(a) Tyres
Keep your tyres up to the correct pressure. Tyres that have treads less than 1.6mm in depth should be replaced. Smooth or
bald tyres will cause skids when you brake hard in an emergency, whether the road is wet or dry.
(b) Brakes
Have the brake system checked regularly, particularly hydraulic brakes, for any leakage of brake fluid may indicate that a
serious fault is developing.
(c) Steering
The steering assembly of your car should be regularly checked and kept in good condition. Check for vibration or too much
looseness in the steering mechanism or wheels that are out of alignment. A car that wanders on the road because of faulty
steering is as dangerous as a car being driven by a drunk driver.
(d) Lights
Check all your vehicle lights regularly.
(e) Direction Indicators
Keep your signalling devices in order by checking them frequently. Signal lights that do not light up when required may cause
an accident.
(f) Horn
Check your horn to make sure it is in working order.
(g) Radiator Coolant
Check the level of coolant in the radiator regularly. Most modern cars come with a coolant reservoir and the correct coolant
level should be somewhere between the ‘high’ and ‘low’ indicator markings. Checking should be done when the engine is
cool especially for cars without coolant reservoirs. Coolant in the radiator is highly pressurised when hot and releasing the
radiator cap may drench you with boiling liquid. Ensure that the engine is cool before opening the radiator cap.
(h) Engine Oil
Keep enough oil in the engine and have the oil changed periodically. Check the oil level with the help of the dip-stick. REAR VIEW
(i) Windscreen Wipers
Make sure that your windscreen wipers are kept in good condition. Dirty windscreens and faulty wipers will hinder vision
when it rains.
(j) Battery
Keep the battery and its terminals clean. Make sure that the connections at the terminals are securely tightened. Check the
level of the battery water if your battery is not the maintenance-free type. If the water level is below the ‘low’ level, add
distilled or commercially available battery water. Refilling with tap water will shorten battery life considerably.
(k) Exhaust
All vehicles must be maintained in a condition and be driven in a manner so as to eliminate excessive emission of smoke and
noise. Smoke and noise are a nuisance and hazardous to health. Check the exhaust system regularly. If exhaust fumes leak
into the passenger compartment, especially if the car is idling with its air-conditioner on, it can be dangerous as there is a
likelihood of carbon-monoxide poisoning.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 70 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 71

PART B The Instrument Panel (Dashboard) / PART B Road Users At Work Zones /
PARTS AND CONTROLS OF A CAR Names Of Various Driving Controls WORK ZONES Work Zone Signs

THE INSTRUMENT PANEL (DASHBOARD) ROAD USERS AT WORK ZONES

Motorists, Motorcyclists or Cyclists
205 Take special care to watch out for the warning of the work activity and the obstruction ahead. Be alert of the traffic situation
around you.

206 Observe the orange warning and information signs that are to help you. You must not exceed any temporary maximum speed
limit posted at the work zone for your safety.

207 Get into the correct lane in good time. Do not switch lanes to overtake queuing traffic or move through an area marked off by
traffic cones or barriers.

208 Be careful not to get into the path of traffic entering or leaving the work area. Do not be distracted by the activity in the work
area. Concentrate on the road ahead and keep a safe distance from the traffic in front.

Pedestrians
209 Keep away from the work area. Do not enter the work area for convenience or a short cut.

210 Follow the direction sign for the alternative path provided when the footpath is blocked.
Do not walk along the traffic lane if it is not designated and cordoned off for pedestrians.

WORK ZONE SIGNS

211 These signs are displayed along the work zone, the section of the road affected by a work activity where temporary traffic control
is exercised. These signs contain a black symbol or message with or without a logo on an orange background and are either
diamond-shaped for warning or rectangular-shaped for information to the road users. Lateral shift markers are work zone signs
that indicate a lateral change in direction of the carriageway or a sharp bend in a road diversion through the work zone.
1 Temperature Gauge 8 Door Ajar Warning Light
212 Typical examples of work zone signs are illustrated below:
2 Speedometer 9 Battery Warning Light

3 Odometer 10 Hand Brake Indicator

4 Tripmeter 11 Oil Pressure Indicator

5 Signal Indicators / Hazard Light Indicator 12 High Beam Indicator

6 Tachometer 13 Engine Check Light

7 Fuel Gauge 14 Empty Fuel Tank Warning Light Caution Road Users Works Ahead Road Narrows Road Narrows
on Left on Right

NAMES OF VARIOUS DRIVING CONTROLS

1 Wiper Switch

2 Steering Wheel

3 Horn

4 Direction Indicator Switch Left Lane Right Lane Centre Lane Hazard Ahead
Ahead Closed Ahead Closed Ahead Closed
5 Accelerator Pedal

6 Brake Pedal

7 Clutch Pedal

8 Handbrake

9 Gear Lever

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 72 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 73

PART B PART B
WORK ZONES Work Zone Signs DRIVING IN SPECIAL ZONES School Zone / Silver Zone

SCHOOL ZONE SAFETY

213 Children are vulnerable road users with limited experience using the roads, thus it is of paramount importance to keep school
zones safe.

ROAD SAFETY MEASURES

214 Several road engineering measures have been installed in school zones to enhance safety. These include:
(a) Prominent school zone signs that remind motorists to drive carefully
(b) Traffic calming measures such as road humps
(c) Pedestrian crossings
(d) Parking restriction lines
(e) Railings along the road centre to deter jaywalking
Work Access Left Bend Right Bend Lateral Shift Marker (f) Parts of the road surface near the school gate are covered with a red texture to catch drivers’ attention and alert them to drive
Ahead Ahead Ahead (Indicates a lateral change of carefully and to look out for children crossing the road.
direction)

Series of Bends Ahead Shoulder Lane DRIVING IN SCHOOL ZONES

Closed Ahead 215 (a) Slow down and drive very carefully when you are in a school zone.
(b) Be extra vigilant in watching out for children crossing the road as they may be easily blocked from your view due to their
height.
(c) Be patient when you encounter heavy traffic at school zones during school peak hours. If you are rushing for time, please take
other routes if you can.
(d) If you drive your child to school, let him/her alight at safe and proper drop-off points.

SILVER ZONE SAFETY

216 Silver zones are designated areas with enhanced road safety engineering measures such as new signs, road features and markings
to change the character of the street, making it safe and more convenient for senior pedestrians to cross the road.
217 Silver zones are found in selected housing estates with high senior populations, relatively higher accident rates involving senior
Pedestrian Path Indicates Location Distance Project Information and proximity to places where seniors frequent.
(To supplement another Supplementary Plate
sign) (To supplement warning ROAD SAFETY MEASURES
signs) 218 Several road safety engineering measures have been installed in silver zones to enhance road safety for all road users, senior
pedestrians in particular. These includes:
(a) Silver zone gateway treatment which includes signs and road markings to indicate the start of a silver zone.

Start of Work Zone End of Work Zone Project Information Start of Work Zone
(example) (example)
(b) Setback crossings to provide reduced crossing distance for pedestrians.
(c) 2-stage crossings so that pedestrians can rest momentarily at the pedestrian refuge (centre divider) before continuing to cross
the road
(d) Centre divider to narrow lanes and reduce vehicles’ travel speeds.
(e) Traffic calming measures such as chicanes and eye-lands (horizontal curves constructed along existing straight stretches of
roads), pinch points (narrowed lanes to slow motorists down) and bus-friendly humps.
(f) Silver zone bollards at crossings to highlight the crossing points.

DRIVING IN SILVER ZONES

219 (a) Drive slow and carefully within silver zones, especially when approaching crossings.
(b) Be extra vigilant in watching out for all pedestrians, especially senior pedestrians crossing the road.
(c) Be patient when you encounter senior pedestrians crossing within silver zones as they may require a longer crossing time.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 74 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 75

PART B PART B
DRIVING IN TUNNELS Daily Driving Rules AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE (AV)

DAILY DRIVING RULES INTRODUCTION

220 The following is a list of Do’s in the tunnel: 224 An AV is a vehicle that can drive from a starting location to a pre-determined destination using various technologies and sensors
(a) Plan your route well in advance; to sense its environment and navigate in autonomous mode.
(b) Turn on the vehicle headlights;
225 As part of the long-term vision of deploying autonomous vehicles and shared-mobility concepts to complement our multi-modal
(c) Turn on the radio;
land transport system in Singapore, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) started facilitating AV trials in July 2015 at one-north.
(d) Follow the traffic signs; The AV test-bed area was recently expanded to neighbouring areas such as the National University of Singapore, Singapore
(e) Heavy vehicles to keep left; Science Park 1 and 2, Dover and Buona Vista. For public notification, signboards are put up in the test areas to indicate that trials
(f) Stay in lane; are being carried out.
(g) Insert cash card in advance for ERP payments.

221 The following is a list of Don’ts in the tunnel:

Existing Rules
(a) Do not stop your vehicle unless in the case of an accident, breakdown, emergency or when lawfully required to do so;
(b) Do not make any U-turns or reverse your vehicle.
Tunnel-Specific Rules
(a) Do not alight from your vehicle unless in an emergency;
(b) Do not use your horn except in an emergency;
(c) Do not change your tyre or wheel;
(d) Do not refuel or repair your vehicle;
(e) Do not overtake;
(f) Do not tailgate;
(g) Do not speed.
HOW TO RECOGNISE AN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES ON TRIAL?
226 AVs that are approved by LTA for the purpose of trials on public roads are issued with permits and sport decals for easy
recognition by road users.
222 The following is a list of vehicles which are prohibited in the tunnel:
(a) Vehicle which is not carrying sufficient fuel in its fuel tank;
(b) Vehicle carrying animals or poultry which are not properly controlled or confined, or carrying garbage, fine particles or other
similar materials which are not sufficiently covered;
(c) Vehicle with a load or the cover of the load not properly secured;
(d) Vehicle carrying a person standing on the outside of the vehicle or seated with any part of his/her person overhanging the
sides or rear of the vehicle;
(e) Vehicle whose overall height is 4.5 metres or above;
(f) Vehicle whose overall width exceeds 3 metres;
(g) Vehicle whose overall length exceeds 13 metres;
(h) Vehicle which is carrying hazardous materials;
(i) Trailer conveying a standard container;
(j) Tanker carrying diesel fuel;
(k) Motorcycles with side cars attached, invalid carriages, three-wheeled vans, low trailers, concrete trucks, cranes, excavators,
road pavers, tractors, dumpers, wheel loaders, bulldozers, graders, mobile concrete pumps or hydrant dispensers;
HOW TO INTERACT WITH AN AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE ON TRIAL
(l) Vehicle with speed limit of 40km/h and below.
227 A good driver is not merely one who is skilful in handling his/her vehicle competently but more importantly is one who is safe.
In addition, a good driver must also be patient, considerate and courteous. He must have a sense of responsibility for the safety of
223 Vehicles which have a speed limit of 60km/h and below shall be driven along the left lane of the expressway. other road users and the ability to concentrate, anticipate and react appropriately while driving.

228 Safe driving calls for total awareness of what other road users are doing. The correct attitude towards driving will make the road
a safer and more pleasant place.

229 When you notice an AV being tested on the road, you should continue driving safely as you would normally do. You are advised
to observe these simple driving practices:
(a) Do not tailgate
(i) Tailgating, or following too closely behind another vehicle is a dangerous practice. If the front vehicle stops suddenly,
an accident is inevitable since you will not be able to stop in time.
(b) Maintain a safe following distance
(i) Drive at a steady speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration or braking.
(ii) Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the AV so that you will have more time to react if necessary.
(c) Overtake only if necessary
(i) Never overtake unless you can do so without endangering yourself or others. Similar to overtaking any other vehicles,
you need to check that it is safe to do so and leave a safe gap between your vehicle and the AV when overtaking.
(ii) After overtaking, return to the appropriate lane on the road as soon as it is safe to do so, but do not cut in sharply in front
of the vehicle you have just overtaken.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 76 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 77

PART C
PARKING IN URA/HDB CAR PARKS
PART C 232 (a) Signboards In Housing & Development Board (HDB) Car Parks
USEFUL INFORMATION

Car Park Number Car Park Number

PARKING IN URA/HDB CAR PARKS
230 Coupon Parking System
(a) Please read the car park signboard carefully when parking your vehicle at any HDB or URA car park. Besides the car park Night Parking
Coupon Parking
signboard, motorists are advised to look out for other parking restrictions signs within the car park. from 10.30pm to 7am
from 7am to 10.30pm in
(b) The car park signboard, which is located either at the entrance of each car park or along the public road, will indicate the (Illuminated Signboard)
Short-Term Parking Lots
Coupon Parking No Coupon Parking
different parking schemes, their operating hours and parking rates available in the car parks. 24 hours in Short-Term from 10.30pm to 7am
(c) Sufficient coupons must be displayed to cover the parking period. The relevant tabs must be torn off completely to indicate Parking Lots
the date and start time of parking the vehicle.
Parking Charges
(d) Displaying a coupon with any irregularity which indicates that the coupon has been tampered with (e.g. tabs with
folded/creased marks) is a serious offence. Such offences are chargeable in Court. Parking Charges
Whole Car Park
(e) Parking coupons can be purchased from authorised sales outlets. Reserved for
Season Parking
231 Electronic Parking System from 10.30pm to 7am:
Park & Ride No Night Parking for
(a) Some HDB/URA car parks use the Electronic Parking System (EPS). With EPS, parking charges are on a per-minute basis. Charges & Hours Non-Season Parking Ticket Holders
(b) For short-term parking, the system reads the In-Vehicle Unit (IU) numbers of the vehicles entering the car park. Payment of
parking charges can be through cash card or EZ-link card. Free Parking on Sundays
& Public Holidays Free Parking on Sundays &
(c) For season parking, the system captures the IU numbers of the season parking ticket holder’s vehicle for identification, to from 7am to 10.30pm in Public Holidays from 7am to
allow the vehicle to enter and leave the car park. Short-Term Parking Lots 10.30pm in Short-Term Parking
Lots
(d) For more information, please visit www.hdb.gov.sg or www.ura.gov.sg.

CAR PARK SIGNBOARDS

Reserved for Season Parking Reserved for Season Parking

from 7pm to 7am Daily from 7pm to 7am on Mondays to Saturdays and
Coupon Parking Whole Day on Sundays and Public Holidays
from 7am to 7pm Coupon Parking
URA Coupon URA Coupon HDB Coupon from 7am to 7pm on Mondays to Saturdays only
Parking Signboard Parking Signboard Parking Signboard
(for motorcycles) (b) Signboards In Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) Car Parks

URA Coupon Parking Signboard

Parking Operation Hours

and Charges for Motorcars
Restriction Sign
(No parking of
heavy vehicles such
as lorries, Signboard on parking
Directional Sign
buses, coaches etc) restrictions Parking Operation Hours
in the car park
and Charges for Motorcycles

Free Parking on Sundays & Public Holidays

No Parking of Bus and Lorry

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 78 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 79

PART C PART C
PARKING IN URA/HDB CAR PARKS LANE USE AND VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGNS (LUS) / EMERGENCY FACILITIES (TUNNELS)
(c) Line Markings For Parking Lots LANE USE AND VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGNS (LUS)
233 Lane Use Signs are overhead signs in the KPE, CTE, MCE, Woodsville and Fort Canning
tunnels which are used to inform motorists of any precautions to take prior to proceeding
ahead on the lane. Each lane use sign will display either a green-down arrow, flashing
amber cross or a red cross. A green-down arrow indicates that a motorist can drive on
ahead; a flashing amber cross indicates that a motorist needs to drive with caution (e.g.
obstructions on the lane ahead); and a red cross indicates that a motorist shall not proceed
beyond the sign. Motorists travelling in the tunnel are to adhere to the displays shown on
these overhead lane use signs.

234 The Variable Message Signs on the road are used to disseminate traffic condition information to motorists.

There are various types of Variable Message Signs along the tunnels and at arterial roads leading to tunnels:

(a) Entrance Variable Message Signs (EVMS): Located at the entrance of the slip
road leading into the tunnel.

Lots Demarcated in Red Lots Demarcated in White

 Reserved for Season Parking Ticket Holders  For car parks outside the Restricted Zone (b) Arterial Variable Message Signs (AVMS): Located along an arterial road that
 Coupon parking allowed leads to the entrance to the tunnel.
 Refer to signboard located at the car park for
the coupon operating hours and parking charges
(c) Tunnel Variable Message Signs (TVMS): An overhead sign located in the tunnel.

235 For closure of the KPE, MCE and Woodsville tunnel, barriers and traffic signal controls at entry slip road approaches will be
activated.

236 Variable speed limit signs are also provided in the KPE and MCE tunnels. In smooth traffic
conditions, the display on the signs will show a posted speed limit (with a red ring) that requires
motorists’ compliance. At times of congestion, recommended lower speed limits can be
displayed (without a red ring) to smoothen out the flow, reduce the risk of flow breakdown and
minimise the risk of accidents.

237 KM markings are found on the vertical face of the kerb wall in the MCE, KPE and CTE tunnels
to provide location referencing for the motorists

EMERGENCY FACILITIES
Exit
238 Exit doors are located next to both the slow and fast lanes of the MCE, KPE and CTE tunnels.
Lots Demarcated in Red and White Lots Demarcated in Yellow
(Bi-Coloured)  For car parks within the Restricted Zone 239 Escape Staircase doors - These exit doors next to the slow lanes can generally be found at intervals of
500m in the main tunnel. There are also exit doors along the slip roads. These exit doors lead to escape
 Reserved for Season Parking Ticket Holders  Coupon parking allowed staircases which open up to surface roads or open areas.
 Coupon parking allowed during restricted hours  Higher parking charges during certain hours
 Refer to signboard located at the car park for  Refer to signboard located at the car park for
the coupon operating hours and parking charges the coupon operating hours and parking charges 240 Cross-passage doors - These exit doors next to the fast lanes are located at intervals of
100m in the main tunnel and they lead to the opposite-bound tunnel.

241 During an emergency, additional flashing lights at the doors will be lighted up to alert
motorists of the emergency situation and the need for evacuation, and to draw their
attention to the exit locations. CTE Escape CTE Cross
Staircase Doors Passage Doors
Communication (OCC - Operations Control Centre)
242 Emergency telephones are provided in the tunnel next to the slow lane at approximately
100m intervals.

243 Each phone also has an amber light next to it that can be switched on to indicate to the
motorist the OCC’s intention to communicate with him/her in the MCE and KPE
tunnel. The motorist can pick up the phone set to speak to the OCC.
Emergency (SOS) Phone

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 80 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 81

PART C PART C
EMERGENCY/INCIDENT PROCEDURES (TUNNELS) EMERGENCY/INCIDENT PROCEDURES (TUNNELS)
244 Radio break-in is an important tool for the OCC to communicate with motorists in the tunnel during an emergency and as a good 252 Escape Route:
driving habit, motorists are encouraged to tune into an FM radio channel before entering the tunnel. (a) Fort Canning Tunnel (FCT) and Woodsville Tunnel (WVT) - head for the tunnel entrance or exit, whichever is safer.
(b) CTE - head for the escape staircase and cross passage doors within tunnels with walls painted with red and white stripes.
Fire Protection
(c) KPE/MCE - head for the white escape doors with green walls within tunnels.
245 Portable fire extinguishers are also provided in the emergency cabinet which is available at
50m intervals along the tunnel. Motorists can make use of the fire extinguishers to put out
any small scale fire in their vehicles.

246 MCE and Woodsville tunnels are equipped with a water-based firefighting system. This is an
overhead water sprinkler system that helps suppress fire growth rates to further protect major
structural tunnel elements and minimise the potential impact of a fire.

247 Coupled with the ventilation system present in all our road tunnels, the water-based
firefighting system enhances the overall incident management process in the event of fire FCT/WVT - In an emergency, when KPE/MCE - Strobe light mounted next CTE – Strobe light mounted above
you see flashing from the red coloured to the escape staircase and cross door
beacon lights mounted on the wall next passage doors
EMERGENCY/INCIDENT PROCEDURES to the service cabinets, leave the tunnel
248 For Motorist Whose Vehicle Is Broken Down immediately
(a) Switch on vehicle hazard lights.
(b) When possible, drive onto the road shoulder and stop the vehicle.
(c) The motorist can use the nearest emergency (SOS) phone (located next to the slow lane of tunnel) to contact the OCC for
assistance. Alternatively, the motorist can dial 1800-CALL LTA (1800-2255582) for assistance.
(d) LTA EMAS vehicle recovery service crew will arrive at the incident site to tow the stalled vehicle to the nearest designated
car park.

249 For Motorist Who Meets With An Accident

(a) If there is neither injury nor serious damage caused to the accident vehicles, motorists involved in the accident are advised to
drive out of the tunnel (especially for accidents which occur in the tunnel) and discuss all details pertaining to the accident at KPE/MCE: In an emergency, look out
Escape Staircase Cross Passage Door
a safe location e.g. public car park. for white escape staircases and cross
(b) If there is injury, or if an accident vehicle cannot be moved, motorists can use the nearest emergency (SOS) phone (if the CTE – In an emergency, look out for escape staircase and cross passage doors
passage doors with green walls and
accident occurs in the tunnel) to contact the OCC for assistance. Alternatively, motorists can dial 1800-CALL LTA (1800- identified by flashing bluish-white
indentified with flashing strobe light
strobe lights Escape Staircase Cross
2255582) or 995/ 999 for assistance.
Passage Door
(c) LTA EMAS and SCDF/Traffic Police response teams will arrive at the incident site to assist the motorists.
253 If you are approaching the tunnel:
250 For Motorist Whose Vehicle Is On Fire
(a) Use the manual call point to sound an alarm and wait for help. (a) Do not enter the tunnel.
(b) Use the portable fire extinguisher inside the emergency cabinet to attempt to extinguish the smoke if the situation appears (b) Look out for the messages displayed on the Variable Message Signboards.
manageable. (c) Use an alternative road to reach your destination.
(c) Dial 1800-CALL LTA (1800-2255582) or use the nearest emergency (SOS) phone to contact the OCC for assistance.
Alternatively, the motorist could contact the OCC immediately.
(d) LTA and SCDF/Traffic Police response teams will arrive at the incident site to assist the motorist.

251 For Motorist Who Encounters A Tunnel Emergency Eg. Fire in Tunnel
If you are in the tunnel:
(a) Listen to any of the local radio channels for LTA emergency announcements and instructions.
(b) Look out for the lane use signs.
(c) If you cannot proceed, do not attempt to reverse your vehicle; turn off your engine and leave your vehicle. Proceed to the
nearest exit or escape route to leave the tunnel immediately.
(d) Do not be alarmed if the overhead water sprinkler system (water-based firefighting system) is activated (MCE and Woodsville
Tunnel only).

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 82 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 83

PART C PART C
ECO-DRIVING: WAYS TO SAVE FUEL AND SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT ECO-DRIVING: WAYS TO SAVE FUEL AND SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT

INTRODUCTION (c) Drive Smoothly

254 How you drive and treat your vehicle can have a significant impact on fuel consumption and emissions. Practicing eco-driving (i) Avoid dragging the engine by using the correct gear if you drive a manual vehicle. Driving the vehicle in the right gear
can reduce fuel consumption by up to 10% on average over time1. By observing just a few simple eco-driving steps, you can will increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
reduce fuel use and at the same time reduce vehicular emissions. This lets you play a part in saving the environment while (ii) Drive at a steady speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration or braking as much as possible. Avoiding unnecessary
saving money! acceleration Maintain a and heavy braking helps reduce your vehicle’s fuel consumption.
(iii) safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front to avoid last-minute braking and to get up to speed as
What is Eco-Driving?
smoothly as possible.
255 Eco-driving generally refers to the practice of handling one’s vehicle in a manner that promotes fuel economy and reduces
emissions. These include vehicle maintenance, on-road driver behaviour, and route selection.

How to ADOPT Eco-DRIVING

256 Eco-driving is not difficult. You can lower your vehicle’s fuel consumption and impact on the environment by observing these
simple driving practices:

(a) Don’t Leave Your Vehicle Engine idling

(i) Turn off the engine when your vehicle is stationary for reasons other than traffic conditions. Idling engines waste fuel,
generate unnecessary pollution to the environment, and cause fumes and noise nuisance to the public.

Note: Under the Environmental Protection and Management

(Vehicular Emissions) Regulations, it is an offence to leave the
vehicle engine running when it is stationary for reasons other than
traffic conditions. Offenders are liable to a fine of up to $5,000, if Drive at a safe and steady speed
convicted in court.
(d) Minimise Use of the Air-Conditioner While Driving
(i) Avoid setting your vehicle’s air-conditioning temperature too low and instead increase the fan speed in order to achieve
higher fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Air-conditioning consumes a lot of fuel to keep you cool!

Do not idle your vehicle’s engine

(ii) There is no need to warm up the engine before driving off. Modern engines reach their optimal temperature faster when
the vehicle is driven at moderate speeds upon starting.

Avoid setting your air-conditioning temperature too low

(e) Plan Your Journey

(i) Plan your journey before setting off to avoid traffic congestion or getting lost on the roads. This can save you both time
Turn off the engine when your vehicle is stationary
and fuel as well as reduce emissions.
(b) Maintain Your Vehicle Regularly
(i) Service your vehicle regularly. A well maintained vehicle is more fuel efficient and emits less pollution on the road.
(ii) Check your vehicle’s tyre pressure at least once a month. Correctly inflated tyres help reduce drag, improve fuel
economy and reduce pollution. So make sure your tyres are at their recommended pressure.
(iii) Avoid over-loading your vehicle. Carrying excess weight in a vehicle increases fuel consumption and emissions. Heavy
or large items, e.g. heavy tool kits, etc., should be removed from your vehicle when not required.

Plan your journey

Ensure that your vehicle’s tyres are correctly inflated Carry only what is necessary; avoid unnecessary weight

1
Kojima, K., & Ryan, L. (2010). Transport Energy Efficiency: Implementation of IEA Recommendations since 2009 and next steps
(No. 2010/9). OECD Publishing.

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 84 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 85

PART C PART C
SECURITY MEASURES TO PREVENT THEFT OF/FROM MOTOR VEHICLES KEY POINTS OF THE MOTOR CLAIMS FRAMEWORK (MCF)

INTRODUCTION 265 In the case of an Accident, you should avoid all unauthorised tow-truck operators or repair workshops.
257 Motor vehicle theft (MVT) and theft from vehicle (TFV) are two of the Police’s key crime concerns. The majority of these cases
take place in carparks located in public housing estates. Steps to take:
266 (a) Exchange particulars of involved parties (including Name, NRIC/FIN, Telephone Number, Address and Insurer);
258 Similar to past trends, theft of motorcycles continue to form the majority (about two-thirds) of all theft of motor-vehicles reported (b) Take note of the Vehicle Numbers;
to the police. Joyrides and transportation for personal uses continue to be common motives for stealing such vehicles. However, (c) Take pictures at the accident scene and submit all pictures at your authorised accident reporting centre during reporting;
some stolen vehicles are never recovered. Things to Photograph:
(i) The Scene (Take pictures of the accident scene capturing the accident vehicles and surrounding areas);
259 Likewise, for theft from vehicles, common items stolen, especially from cars, are laptops, handbags, cash cards and handphones.
The culprit(s) usually smash the window or windscreen of the car in the dead of the night to gain access to the valuables left (ii) Own Vehicle (Take pictures of the damage to your own vehicle, capturing your licence plate);
behind by the owner. (iii) Other Damaged Vehicles (Take pictures of damage to all other vehicles involved in the accident, capturing their license
plates. For multiple vehicle collision, take pictures of the vehicles with direct contact, e.g. vehicles in the immediate
260 Therefore, it is every vehicle owner’s responsibility to ensure the security of their vehicle and valuables kept within, in order to front and immediate rear.)
prevent such thefts from occurring. Future vehicle owners such as yourself, are encouraged to enhance the security of vehicles by
taking adequate crime prevention measures. 267 Call your insurer’s hotline for a tow truck or for further advice on the accident.

261 The inconveniences and monetary loses caused to vehicle owners by such thefts are significant. You can prevent such unfortunate 268 Report and bring your accident vehicle (whether damaged or not) to the approved reporting centre / authorised workshop within
incidents by adopting the following simple measures: 24 hours or by the next working day.

MOTORCYCLES The benefits of reporting:

262 (a) Remove the ignition keys and handle lock your motorcycle, even if you are leaving for a short while. It takes only a short 269 By reporting the accident within the stipulated time, you not only enjoy hassle-free and quality-certified repair services as provided
time for thieves to strike; under the MCF, you will also avoid potentially higher costs from exaggerated claims.
(b) Locking devices such as front wheel safety lock, handlebar lock, brake/disc lock and cable lock can be used to enhance the (a) Remember that all accidents must be reported to your insurer within 24 hours or by the next working day with your accident
vehicle. Report the accident no matter how trivial or even if there is no visible damage, and irrespective of whether you are
security of your motorcycle;
claiming from any insurers or third parties.
(c) Use a motorcycle canvas to cover the vehicle, securing both ends with locks; (b) Should you fail to report the accident to your insurer with your accident vehicle, you may find yourself in a position of
(d) Consider fitting additional safety devices such as an alarm system and immobilizer for your motorcycle; having your claims prejudiced or declined later by insurers. Failure to comply with this new policy condition will be seen as
(e) To prevent the motorcycle parts from being stolen, you may consider labelling security markings (e.g. the vehicle registration being “In breach” of the policy terms and conditions, i.e. there will be no liability on the part of the insurer. In addition, any
number) on major parts of the motorcycle or installing a device known as a suspension guard to prevent easy removal of the non-compliance with this policy condition will result in a loss of your ‘No Claims Discount’ upon renewal of your policy.
motorcycle’s suspension;
(f) Remove your cashcard from the IU when you leave your motorcycle.

CARS
263 (a) Remove the ignition key, wind up all the windows and lock all the doors whenever it is left unattended, even for a short while;
(b) Do not leave valuables such as cash cards, briefcases, handbags, laptops or handphones exposed in your vehicle. If need be,
such items should be kept out of sight or locked in the car boot;
(c) Consider fitting additional safety devices such as an anti-theft alarm system or an immobilizer on your vehicle. An anti-theft
alarm should be regularly checked/serviced to ensure its effectiveness;
(d) Use an additional lock such as steering wheel lock, clutch & brake locks, gear lock, etc.;
(e) Keep a record of the serial numbers of valuable items such as laptops, handphones (IMEI no.) and/or cash cards. These will
help the police in investigations.

GENERAL
264 (a) Be wary of suspicious characters loitering around the carparks. If you see any person loitering around suspiciously, do not
hesitate to contact the Police at ‘999’;
(b) Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a well-lit area. Avoid parking at dark or secluded areas;
(c) Form a good habit of securing your vehicle. Always remember, “Lock, Look and Leave”:
(i) Lock your vehicle and ensure that all valuables are kept out of sight,
(ii) Look around your car when parking. Whenever
possible, park your vehicle in a well-lit area or prominent location where human traffic volume is high,
(iii) Leave your car secured and with peace of mind;
(d) Crime prevention is a shared responsibility. Crime can be prevented if owners and members of the public adopt measures to
stay vigilant against criminal acts. Together, we can help make Singapore a safer home for all.

Published online by Traffic Police

BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 86 BASIC THEORY OF DRIVING 87