PDVL PDVL Licensing Requirements 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: How long is the PDVL valid for in Singapore?
- 1 year (Correct answer)
- 3 years
- 5 years
- Indefinitely
Correct answer: 1 year
The PDVL is valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually. Drivers must continue to meet all requirements including medical fitness at renewal.
Question 2: Can a person with a criminal record obtain a PDVL in Singapore?
- Yes, criminal records are not checked
- Applicants undergo background checks; serious criminal offences may result in rejection of the application (Correct answer)
- Only traffic offences are checked
- Criminal records are automatically cleared when applying
Correct answer: Applicants undergo background checks; serious criminal offences may result in rejection of the application
LTA conducts background checks on PDVL applicants. Those with serious criminal records, particularly offences involving violence, drugs, or sexual offences, may be denied a licence.
Question 3: What happens if a PDVL holder accumulates excessive demerit points?
- Nothing happens
- The PDVL may be suspended or revoked by LTA, and the driver cannot operate as a private hire car driver during the suspension (Correct answer)
- Only a fine is imposed
- Only a warning letter is sent
Correct answer: The PDVL may be suspended or revoked by LTA, and the driver cannot operate as a private hire car driver during the suspension
Excessive demerit points can lead to PDVL suspension or revocation. This is in addition to any action on the regular driving licence by the Traffic Police.
Question 4: Must a PDVL holder display their licence while driving?
- No display is required
- Yes, the PDVL must be prominently displayed in the vehicle so passengers can see the driver's identity and licence details (Correct answer)
- Only when asked by passengers
- Only during LTA inspections
Correct answer: Yes, the PDVL must be prominently displayed in the vehicle so passengers can see the driver's identity and licence details
PDVL holders must display their licence card prominently in the vehicle. This allows passengers to verify the driver's identity and licence status for safety.
Question 5: Can foreign nationals apply for a PDVL in Singapore?
- Yes, anyone can apply
- Only Singapore citizens and permanent residents can apply for a PDVL (Correct answer)
- Only Employment Pass holders can apply
- Only S Pass holders can apply
Correct answer: Only Singapore citizens and permanent residents can apply for a PDVL
The PDVL is restricted to Singapore citizens and permanent residents. Foreign nationals, regardless of their work pass type, are not eligible to drive private hire cars in Singapore.
Question 6: What is the penalty for driving a private hire car without a valid PDVL in Singapore?
- A verbal warning
- Fines of up to SGD 3,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months for the first offence (Correct answer)
- Only a SGD 100 fine
- No penalty — it is just a guideline
Correct answer: Fines of up to SGD 3,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months for the first offence
Driving a private hire car without a PDVL is a serious offence under the Third-Party Taxi & Private Hire Car Services Act. Penalties include substantial fines and potential imprisonment.
PDVL PDVL Licensing Requirements 2
How long is the PDVL valid for in Singapore?