Carpooling sounds like a simple, practical solution—especially in a busy city like Singapore. Whether you’re looking to save on fuel, ease traffic congestion, or just enjoy some company during your daily commute, the idea of sharing a ride seems harmless enough. But is it legal for drivers to carpool in Singapore? This is a question that many have asked, and the answer is not as straightforward as it might seem.
Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense for anyone thinking about giving someone a lift or accepting one. The key is knowing the difference between casual carpooling and providing unlicensed transport services—which can land you in serious trouble.
What Exactly Counts As Legal Carpooling?
In Singapore, carpooling is allowed—but only if it follows the Land Transport Authority (LTA) rules. Here’s what makes a carpool arrangement legal:
- Maximum Of Two Carpool Trips Per Day
You’re only allowed to offer up to two carpool trips each day. This keeps the activity non-commercial. Making multiple trips for different people throughout the day may be considered illegal. - Trip Must Be Pre-Arranged
The carpool ride should be arranged before the journey begins. That means no flagging down passengers on the road or waiting at taxi stands. The ride must be agreed upon in advance, either directly or through a carpooling platform. - Only Cost-Sharing Is Allowed
Drivers can accept some payment, but only to cover basic expenses like petrol, parking, and ERP charges. You’re not allowed to charge a fare or make a profit from the trip. - Use Of A Private Vehicle (Not For Hire And Reward)
In Singapore, carpooling is allowed—but only if it follows the Land Transport Authority (LTA) rules. Here’s what makes a carpool arrangement legal: - No Soliciting Or Advertising Of Rides Publicly
Drivers should not publicly advertise carpool rides on social media or chat groups unless through an approved carpool platform. This helps prevent abuse of the system.
When Does Carpooling Become Illegal?
Carpooling becomes illegal the moment it steps outside the guidelines laid out by the LTA. If you’re asking if it’s legal for drivers to carpool in Singapore and you’re making more than two trips a day, picking people up off the street, or charging beyond cost-sharing, then no, it isn’t legal anymore.
Drivers who breach these rules could be seen as operating an unlicensed transport service, similar to running a taxi without the right approvals. This is a serious offence under the Point-to-Point Passenger Transport Industry Act. Punishments can include fines, demerit points, suspension of driving privileges, and, in some cases, even criminal charges brought before the Court.
In short, you’re breaking the law once you start behaving like a full-time driver without the appropriate licence. It doesn’t matter if the ride is casual or if you’re helping someone in need—the rules still apply.
What About Carpooling Through Apps?
Using apps to carpool has become popular in Singapore, and the good news is, yes—it can be done legally. But again, conditions apply. Apps like GrabHitch and RydePool are structured to comply with LTA rules. They help regulate carpooling so it doesn’t turn into an unlicensed business.
These platforms automatically limit users to two trips per day, ensure each ride is pre-booked, and do not allow drivers to earn profit beyond cost recovery. They also keep a digital trail of the arrangements, which is helpful in the event of any dispute or inspection.
So, is it legal for drivers to carpool in Singapore through these apps? Yes—but only when used as intended. If a driver tries to work around the system to offer more rides or charges excessive fees, they risk enforcement action. Using an approved app doesn’t give you free rein to do as you please—the same laws still apply.
What Are The Requirements For Getting A Private Hire Car Driver’s Vocational Licence (PDVL)?
If you’re thinking about going beyond casual carpooling and offering regular rides for payment, you’ll need to get a Private Hire Car Driver’s Vocational Licence (PDVL). This licence is issued by the LTA and is required by law for anyone who wants to provide point-to-point transport services in exchange for fare.
To qualify for a PDVL, you must meet these requirements:
- Be at least 30 years old if you’re a new applicant. Existing drivers may apply if younger but will be assessed individually.
- Hold a valid Class 3/3A Singapore driving licence for at least one year.
- Be a Singapore citizen or permanent resident.
- Pass a medical examination, especially for applicants above a certain age.
- Complete and pass the PDVL training course, which covers service quality, rules and regulations, safety standards, and other essential topics.
- Have a clean criminal and driving record, with no serious offences such as drunk driving or dangerous driving.
Once approved, the PDVL allows you to work legally as a private hire driver using platforms like Grab or Gojek. This is a separate category from casual carpooling and is considered a professional transport service.
Conclusion About Carpooling In Singapore
So, is it legal for drivers to carpool in Singapore? Yes, it is—but only if done the right way. What feels like a friendly favour can turn into a legal offence if the rules are not followed. If you’re ever uncertain about whether your actions fall within the law, it’s better to get professional advice.
At Tembusu Law, our team is here to guide you. If you’re caught in a situation involving transport-related offences, or if you’re just unsure about your rights, speak with the best criminal lawyers in Singapore today.
Don’t take risks—take action and contact Tembusu Law today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Carpooling In Singapore
Can I Offer Carpool Rides Every Day In Singapore?
Yes, you can offer carpool rides daily, but you’re limited to a maximum of two trips per day. Going beyond this may be seen as providing an unlicensed transport service.
Is It Legal To Accept Money From Passengers When Carpooling?
Yes, it is—provided the payment only covers the running costs such as fuel, ERP charges, and parking. You must not make a profit from the ride.
Do I Need A Special Licence To Carpool Legally In Singapore?
No special licence is required if you stick to two trips per day, pre-arrange the rides and only share costs. If you go beyond that, then a Private Hire Car Driver’s Vocational Licence (PDVL) is necessary.
What Happens If I Carpool For Profit Without A Licence?
You could face legal penalties such as fines, vehicle impoundment, or even be charged in Court for operating an illegal point-to-point transport service.
Can I Offer Carpool Rides Without Using An App?
Yes, you can. As long as the ride is pre-arranged, not done more than twice daily, and payment is strictly cost-sharing, it is considered legal.
