Singapore has rolled out major changes to its road traffic laws in 2025. These updates aim to make the roads safer, ensure fair enforcement, and adapt rules for modern drivers and personal mobility device (PMD) users. The changes are primarily contained in the Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act 2025, which came into effect on June 12, and the Road Traffic (Amendment) Rules 2025, effective from September 4.
Sentencing for Dangerous and Careless Driving Has Changed
One of the biggest updates affects sentencing for dangerous or careless driving. Previously, courts were required to impose minimum jail terms and licence bans for first-time offenders who caused death or serious injury. The new rules remove these mandatory minimums, allowing judges to decide sentences based on the details of each case. The maximum penalties, including up to eight years in prison, remain the same.
For repeat offenders, mandatory minimum sentences have been reduced but are still significant. Dangerous driving causing death now carries a minimum of two years in jail, down from four, while causing serious injury now requires at least one year, down from two. These changes allow courts to hand out fairer sentences while keeping habitual offenders accountable.
Repeat Speeding Offenders Are Now Clearly Defined
The rules for repeat speeding offences have been refined. Previously, any past speeding conviction could result in harsher penalties. Now, only drivers with at least two convictions for exceeding the speed limit by more than 40 km/h within five years will be considered repeat offenders. This change ensures that only high-risk drivers face stricter penalties, while minor infractions do not lead to disproportionately harsh punishments.
Licence Suspensions and Digital Enforcement Are Updated
Licence suspensions will now stay in effect until all appeals are resolved, even if a driver has been convicted but is appealing the case. This ensures that dangerous drivers remain off the road during the legal process. The law also allows non-imprisonable offences to be served by email if the driver has given consent. Additionally, more police officers are now authorized to issue fines, making enforcement faster and more efficient.
New Licence Categories for Heavy Vehicle Drivers
The 2025 amendments introduced new licence categories for heavy vehicles, including 4P, 4A, 4AP, and 5P. Some of these categories come with stricter medical and vision requirements to ensure drivers are fully competent. Foreign workers holding a Class 3C licence must now pass a road assessment before upgrading to a Class 4 licence. If they fail, their Class 3C licence will be revoked. These measures aim to make sure that only qualified drivers operate heavy vehicles.
Safer Speeds in School and Silver Zones
To protect students and elderly pedestrians, Singapore will introduce full-day 40 km/h speed limits in school zones starting January 2026. Until now, these limits only applied when amber lights were flashing. Silver Zones, typically located in residential areas with more elderly residents, will continue to have speed limits between 30-40 km/h. More Silver Zones are being added to cover additional neighborhoods. These measures are part of Singapore’s Vision Zero strategy, which aims to reduce traffic fatalities.
Stricter Rules for PMD and Bicycle Users
From July 2025, footpaths next to cycling paths will be designated as Pedestrian-Only Paths, and bicycles or e-scooters will not be allowed. This reduces conflicts and improves safety for pedestrians. E-scooter users must also follow updated rules regarding weight, width, and mandatory safety certification. Enforcement will remain strict, and non-compliance can result in fines or confiscation.
What Drivers and PMD Users Should Do
Drivers should review their driving records under the new repeat-offender rules, prepare for permanent 40 km/h school zones starting in 2026, and ensure vehicles meet inspection and emissions requirements. Understanding the new licence categories before upgrading is also important. PMD users should stick to designated cycling paths, avoid pedestrian-only areas, and make sure their devices comply with weight, width, and certification rules.
Singapore’s 2025 reforms are a strong step toward safer roads, fairer penalties, and responsible use of both vehicles and PMDs. Everyone on the road from car drivers to e-scooter riders needs to understand and follow these new rules.