Starting November 2025, Singapore’s road and mobility rules will tighten significantly under a new Land Transport Authority (LTA) reform package aimed at reducing accidents and strengthening public safety.
Drivers, riders, and pedestrians alike will notice tougher demerit point rules, stricter medical checks at licence renewal, and clearer restrictions on personal mobility devices (PMDs). These measures are designed to curb reckless driving, protect pedestrians, and encourage long-term safety awareness.
Transport safety analyst Tan Siew Ling notes, “This is one of Singapore’s most comprehensive road safety updates in a decade — it encourages responsibility on every level, from young drivers to seniors renewing their licences.”
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Singapore Driving Laws Change in November 2025: Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Month | November 2025 |
| Demerit Point Ceiling Before Suspension | Reduced from 24 to 20 points |
| Speeding Penalty | 8 demerit points per offence |
| New Driver Probation Period | Extended from 1 year to 2 years |
| Licence Renewal Requirement | Full medical and vision check required |
| Dangerous Driving Penalties | First-time mandatory jail terms removed; repeat penalties adjusted |
| PMD & Bicycle Footpath Rules | Banned on pedestrian paths next to cycling routes from 1 November 2025 |
| Mobility Scooter Regulation | Medical certificate required from Q1 2026 |
| Speed Cap for Mobility Devices | 6 km/h universal cap by 2029 (transition until end 2028) |
Why the Rules Are Changing?
The LTA’s 2025 initiative supports Singapore’s “Vision Zero” goal — to eliminate road fatalities and serious injuries through stricter enforcement and improved public awareness.
According to LTA spokesperson Lee Kai Wen, “Even small lapses — like habitual speeding or ignoring medical checkups — can have large consequences. The new framework closes those gaps.”
The reform targets five key areas:
- Reducing repeat minor offences with lower demerit ceilings.
- Preventing fatigue- and vision-related accidents via mandatory medical renewals.
- Encouraging careful driving among probationary licence holders.
- Protecting pedestrians from PMD and bicycle collisions.
- Ensuring long-term mobility safety for seniors and individuals using mobility aids.
Demerit Points and Speeding Penalties
1. New Demerit Point Ceiling
The maximum points before suspension drop from 24 to 20.
That means frequent minor violations — like speeding, phone use, or unsafe lane changes — will now trigger suspension faster.
- Example: Three speeding offences (8 points each) could already push a driver near suspension, especially if combined with other infractions.
2. Updated Speeding Penalties
Each speeding offence now carries 8 demerit points, up from 6. The LTA aims to deter habitual speeding on expressways and high-risk areas.
Practical Tip: Use adaptive cruise control or speed alerts to maintain compliance, particularly during peak hours.
New Driver Probation Period
The probation period doubles from 1 year to 2 years for newly licensed motorists.
During this period:
- Committing major or multiple minor offences may lead to licence suspension or revocation.
- A “P-plate” display remains mandatory throughout the full two years.
Good Habits for Probation Drivers:
- Maintain a 3-second following distance.
- Signal early before changing lanes.
- Avoid tailgating or aggressive overtaking.
- Take defensive driving courses early — insurers often reward clean records.
Driving instructor Ng Wei Hong adds, “Extending probation gives new drivers time to build discipline. The first 24 months are crucial to forming safe habits.”
Licence Renewal: Medical and Vision Checks
From November 2025, every driver renewing their licence must complete a medical and vision assessment.
The exam covers:
- Visual acuity and field tests
- General medical fitness, including conditions that may affect reflexes or alertness
- Neurological or musculoskeletal evaluations, where applicable:
| Check Type | Requirement | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Vision Test | Must meet minimum eyesight standards | Every renewal cycle |
| Medical Assessment | Required for all drivers | Every renewal cycle post-2025 |
| Additional Evaluation | For drivers aged 65+ or with chronic conditions | Case-by-case basis |
How to Prepare:
- Schedule your health screening 1–2 months before renewal.
- Bring corrective lenses and updated prescriptions.
- Submit doctor-certified forms promptly to avoid renewal delays.
Dangerous and Careless Driving Penalties
The legal framework is being refined for proportional justice:
| Offence Type | Previous Minimum Sentence | 2025 Update |
|---|---|---|
| First-time Dangerous Driving | Mandatory minimum jail term | Removed (judge discretion allowed) |
| Repeat Dangerous Driving (causing death) | 4 years minimum | Reduced to 2 years |
| Repeat Dangerous Driving (causing grievous hurt) | 2 years minimum | Reduced to 1 year |
Courts will now have flexibility for first-time offences but retain firm measures for repeat offenders.
Legal analyst Rachel Ong explains, “This shift balances deterrence with fairness — judges can weigh intent, severity, and remorse rather than rely on rigid sentencing.”
Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) and Mobility Aids
1. Footpath Rules (from 1 November 2025)
- Non-motorised PMDs and bicycles will be banned on pedestrian footpaths adjacent to cycling routes.
- This aims to reduce collisions in dense housing estates and park connectors.
2. Medical Certificate Requirement (from Q1 2026)
- Mobility scooter users must obtain a medical fitness certificate before use.
- Assessments open in Q4 2025 to give users ample time.
3. Speed Cap (by 2029)
- A universal 6 km/h limit will apply to all mobility devices by 2029, with phased enforcement beginning in 2026.
| Device Type | Rule | Implementation Year |
|---|---|---|
| Non-motorised PMDs & Bicycles | Banned from pedestrian footpaths next to cycling paths | Nov 2025 |
| Mobility Scooters | Medical certificate required | Q1 2026 |
| All Mobility Devices | Speed capped at 6 km/h | 2029 (transition ends 2028) |
Practical Advice:
- Follow signage at town centres.
- Dismount in crowded areas.
- Plan routes in advance — noncompliance can lead to fines or confiscation.
What Drivers Should Do Now?
- Check your demerit record: If you’re nearing 20 points, adopt safer habits now.
- Prepare for renewal: Book your health and vision tests early.
- Stay informed: Follow official LTA updates before November 2025.
- For PMD users: Verify if your regular routes will be affected by the new bans.
- For families: Discuss safety with young or senior drivers who may be affected by the new checks.
Why These Changes Matter?
The reforms aim to reduce accidents, protect vulnerable users, and future-proof Singapore’s transport system.
By 2029, LTA expects a 20% decline in pedestrian-related incidents and a measurable improvement in compliance rates. The focus is not just punishment but prevention.
“Safety must evolve with society,” said LTA Deputy Director Tan Rui Min. “These laws are not about punishment but about preserving lives.”
Compliance Checklist
- Keep within posted speed limits
- Avoid handheld mobile use while driving
- Signal early and change lanes gradually
- Check licence expiry and renew early
- Undergo mandatory medical and vision tests
- PMD users — follow path designations and speed limits
- Mobility scooter users — prepare for 2026 medical certification
Final Words
Singapore’s November 2025 road law update marks a major milestone in the country’s transport evolution. From demerit ceilings to PMD controls, these changes encourage every motorist and commuter to share responsibility for safer, more sustainable roads. By understanding the updates early, you can avoid penalties — and help keep Singapore’s streets secure for all.
FAQs
What is the new demerit point ceiling before suspension?
The limit is 20 points, down from 24. Exceeding this can lead to suspension.
How many points for speeding?
Each offence now carries 8 demerit points.
How long is the new driver probation?
Probation lasts two years. Any major violation may cause licence suspension or cancellation.
What are the new renewal requirements?
All drivers must complete a medical and vision test at licence renewal.
Are PMDs allowed on pedestrian paths?
No. From November 1, 2025, PMDs and bicycles are banned from footpaths next to cycling routes.
What about mobility scooters?
From Q1 2026, a medical fitness certificate will be mandatory to operate mobility scooters.
