What the Singapore driving license is
The Singapore driving license is an official document issued by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). It allows you to drive a motor vehicle on public roads in Singapore and proves that you passed the required tests. The document is a plastic card in credit card format, 85.6 × 54 mm, with holograms, microprinting and UV elements against forgery. It shows your name, date of birth, address, card number, vehicle classes, issue and expiry dates, and your photograph. That is why your portrait has to be clear, recent and look like you today.
Singapore driving license photo size explained
The Singapore driving license photo measures 35 mm wide and 45 mm high, a passport-style format. Your head takes about 74% of the photo height, and there is about 4 mm of space between the top edge of the photo and your hair. The background is plain white. A print at 290 DPI keeps it sharp, so every detail of your face stays visible on the card. A photo cropped too tight or too loose is easy to spot, so our tool sets the head position for you.
Who needs a Singapore driving license photo
You need a Singapore driving license photo when you apply for your first card after the practical test. The Singapore Embassy in Cairo also has a consular page on the photocard driving licence.
How to get a Singapore driving license
To apply, you must be at least 18 years old. The steps below follow the Land Transport Authority process. Well-known driving schools include the Singapore Safety Driving Centre (SSDC), Bukit Batok Driving Centre (BBDC) and ComfortDelGro Driving Centre.
- Enrol in a driving school or hire a private driving instructor and complete the theory and practical lessons.
- Pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT) on road signs, traffic rules and safe driving.
- Get a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL), which lets you practise under supervision.
- Book and pass the Practical Driving Test (PDT) in real traffic.
- Apply for your Singapore driving license with your identity card or passport, a recent passport-sized photo, your PDL and the fee.
- Collect the card at the designated LTA office or have it mailed to you.
Vehicle classes
Every card lists the vehicle classes you may drive: Class 2B for motorcycles up to 200cc, Class 2A for motorcycles above 200cc up to 400cc, Class 2 for motorcycles above 400cc, Class 3 for cars, Class 4 for buses and Class 5 for heavy vehicles. One card covers all your classes, so a single Singapore driving license photo is all you need.
Driving abroad
If you are a Singaporean driving abroad, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your card. The IDP is issued by the Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS). Check the rules of the country you plan to visit before you travel, and carry both documents when you drive there.
Singapore driving license photo checklist
- Dimensions: 35 × 45 mm, head about 74% of the photo height.
- Plain white background, no shadows or patterns.
- Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open.
- Head straight and centred in the frame.
- No glasses; your full face stays inside the frame.
- Sharp, recent colour photo with no filters.
