Important Note: As of this writing, new PDVL applicants must complete a 2-hour Refresher Driving Course every 3 years to renew the licence. Also, you cannot hold both a PDVL and a TDVL (Taxi Licence) simultaneously without special approval.
He smiled, adjusted his rearview mirror, and began his new journey. The PDVL wasn’t just a card; it was his passport to a legitimate, regulated career.
Arjun took a photo of his new PDVL, uploaded it to his chosen platform (Grab), and waited 24 hours for their internal approval. The next morning, his app showed "GO ONLINE." He drove to a busy HUB, switched on the app, and within seconds – “Ding! New booking request.” how to apply pdvl license
The LTA doesn’t just want a good driver; they want a healthy one. Arjun booked an appointment at a registered medical clinic (any SATA CommHealth or approved GP clinic). The doctor checked his vision, hearing, blood pressure, and general physical fitness. He filled out the (Form VL/MED/01). Cost: ~$50. Validity: 6 months.
| Step | Action | Cost (approx.) | Where | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 1 | Eligibility check | Free | LTA website | | 2 | Medical exam | $30–$60 | Approved clinic | | 3 | 10-hr course & test | $200–$300 | Driving centre | | 4 | Online application | $50 | LTA e-Services | | 5 | Background check | Free | LTA / Police | | 6 | Collect licence card | $30 | LTA Sin Ming / Post Office | Important Note: As of this writing, new PDVL
The Road to the PDVL: A Complete Guide to Applying for Singapore’s Private Hire Licence
~3–6 weeks from start to card in hand. Total cost: ~$350–$450 (excluding course materials and transport). The PDVL wasn’t just a card; it was
LTA cross-references your records with the Traffic Police and the Registrar of Vehicles. They check for outstanding summons, demerit points, and criminal history. For Arjun, who had a clean slate, the status changed from "Pending" to "Approved-in-Principle" after 7 working days.