Theory Test Requirement for E-bikes/PABs (Power Assisted Bicycles)

Come mid-2021, updated legislation in the Road Traffic Act will be brought into effect. Crucially, this includes a new requirement for PAB users to pass a theory test.

Against the backdrop of changing regulations, are you contemplating whether you should get an e-bike or not?

Worry not, we are here to give you the latest e-bike-related updates. Here are some common questions you might have right now:

1. Who will this affect? 

All e-scooter and power assisted bicycle (PAB) riders in Singapore who wish to ride their personal mobility devices on public paths and on roads (PABs only) must pass this upcoming theory test.

2. What kind of theory test will it be?

The test will cover modules on path and road safety to ensure that riders are aware of active mobility rules, a general code of conduct, and safe riding behaviour.

3. How will I be affected if I buy an ebike now? 

In Singapore, we have over 30,000 PAB owners on the road - with that many riders, existing users and prospective buyers can rest assured that there will be a grace period from the government for riders to obtain their theory test certificate. Duration of the grace period is not yet made known to the public, but it should be in the range of 6 - 12 months given the large number of PAB and e-scooter owners in Singapore. 

With that in mind, if you purchase a new ebike right now, it is unlikely that the changes in legislation will affect you in the near future (6-12 months).

4. Where do I take the test?

According to news sources, LTA (Land Transport Authority) will be administering the PAB theory test online.

At the time of writing, registration is not open yet- we will update you once news about this is made available.

5. How much does the test cost?

The cost of the test has not been made public yet. We estimate it to be around 10 dollars as the current basic theory test for motorcars costs 16 dollars. Stay tuned for more updates!

6. Who can take the test?

Anyone who is at least 16 years old and has paid the single test fee.

7. Need to renew license anot?

Nope, the test result is valid for life (unless it was fraudulently obtained).

8. What if I don’t want to take the test?

Please take note that once the updated legislation in the Road Traffic Act has come into force, the penalties for riding PABs on public paths without a license are as follows:

First offence: Fine of $2000 and/or 6 months’ imprisonment;

Subsequent offences: Fine of $5000 and/or 12 months’ imprisonment

The penalties for riding PABs on roads without a license are even harsher:

First offence: Fine of $10000 and/or 3 years’ imprisonment;

Subsequent offences: Fine of $20000 and/or 6 years’ imprisonment

9. Anything else I should know?

According to Baey Yam Keng, Senior Parliamentary Secretary in the MOT (Ministry of Transport), a test handbook will be released sometime this month (Apr 2021), so keep an eye out for that!

At the end of the day, we must understand that the government is implementing these new regulations to keep all road users safe. By complying with these new regulations, we can do our part to create a safe riding environment for all.