PDVL Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield PDVL facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. According to LTA requirements, how frequently must a private hire car that is 3 years old or older undergo mandatory vehicle inspection? → Once a year
2. Private hire cars in Singapore must be rented through or affiliated with a licensed: → Private hire car operator (ride-hailing platform holder) licensed by LTA
3. Under Singapore law, what must a driver do at a 'Give Way' sign? → Slow down and give way to traffic on the road being entered or crossed
4. What happens to a PDVL if the driver's regular driving licence is suspended? → The PDVL is automatically invalidated as it requires a valid underlying driving licence
5. What is the minimum legal tyre tread depth for a private hire vehicle operating on Singapore roads? → 1.6 mm
6. A PHC driver notices the vehicle's headlights are flickering and noticeably dim before starting a shift. What is the correct response? → Have the lights repaired by a qualified mechanic before resuming hire work
7. When conducting a pre-trip vehicle check, which safety item should a PHC driver prioritise above all others? → Ensuring lights, brakes, and tyres are in good working order
8. What is the correct lane for PHC drivers to use on a 3-lane expressway during normal driving conditions? → The leftmost (first) lane, using the centre or right lanes only for overtaking
9. What does PDVL stand for in Singapore? → Private Hire Car Driver's Vocational Licence
10. What is the minimum age requirement to apply for a PDVL in Singapore? → 30 years old
11. PDVL holders are required to renew their vocational licence: → Every 3 years, subject to meeting renewal criteria
12. What is the maximum age limit for private hire cars operating in Singapore? → 8 years from first registration, or 10 years under the revised vehicle quota scheme
13. Can foreign nationals apply for a PDVL in Singapore? → Only Singapore citizens and permanent residents can apply for a PDVL
14. When a private hire vehicle is used for commercial hire, what type of insurance coverage is specifically required beyond the standard minimum? → Commercial hire car insurance that covers fare-paying passengers
15. A PHC passenger requests to be taken to Jurong East MRT station. Which expressway would most efficiently connect from Orchard Road? → Ayer Rajah Expressway (AYE)
16. What is the primary purpose of a PHC driver conducting a thorough pre-trip vehicle inspection before each shift? → To ensure the vehicle is safe for passengers and all other road users
17. Under the Singapore Road Traffic Act, what is the speed limit on an expressway unless otherwise indicated? → 90 km/h
18. How long is the PDVL valid for in Singapore? → 1 year
19. What driving licence requirement must a PDVL applicant meet? → Must hold a valid Class 3/3A Singapore driving licence for at least 2 years
20. Which symptom most strongly suggests that a PHC vehicle's tyres or suspension require immediate professional attention? → The vehicle consistently pulls to one side when driving on a straight road
21. Why is it important for a PHC driver to check the engine oil level regularly? → To lubricate engine components, reduce heat, and prevent engine damage
22. What are the penalties for operating a vehicle as a private hire car without proper registration? → Fines of up to SGD 10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months, plus vehicle impounding
23. A PHC driver discovers a significant oil leak pooling beneath the vehicle before starting a shift. What is the correct action? → Cease all operations immediately and have the vehicle repaired before resuming hire work
24. In Singapore, which authority is responsible for issuing and revoking driving licences? → The Land Transport Authority (LTA)
25. What is the demerit points threshold in Singapore at which a driving licence is suspended? → 24 demerit points within 24 months
26. What legislation governs private hire car services in Singapore? → The Third-Party Taxi & Private Hire Car Services Act and the Road Traffic Act
27. When should a driver use hazard warning lights in Singapore? → When the vehicle is stationary and causing an obstruction, or in an emergency
28. A licensed PHC operator must maintain records of all bookings for at least how long? → 2 years, as required by LTA for audit and enforcement purposes
29. What must a PDVL driver do if their driving licence is suspended or revoked? → Immediately stop operating as a PHC driver and inform their platform operator
30. What action must a PDVL holder take if their residential address changes? → Notify LTA of the address change within the timeframe required by LTA regulations