A rental car in Singapore offers comfort and flexibility as you move between diverse districts. Drive from the Marina Bay skyline to heritage areas like Kampong Glam and Little India, then head out to Sentosa for beaches and family attractions.
Explore less crowded corners such as the Jurong Lakeside area, Seletar, and the nature trails of the Southern Ridges. With efficient roads and clear signs, it is easy to fit in shopping, dining and green escapes in a single day behind the wheel.
At a glance
Drives onLeft
Motorway tollElectronic road pricing (ERP)
CurrencySingapore Dollar (SGD)
Min. rental age21 years
Good to know before you drive
The essentials for a smooth, ticket-free trip.
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Speed limits
Town50 km/h
Open road90 km/h
Motorway130 km/h
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Parking
Paid short-stay zones in city centres — buy a ticket and display it.
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Alcohol limit
Typically 0.05% blood-alcohol limit; lower for new drivers.
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Vignette / tolls
Check whether a motorway vignette or tolls apply — many rentals include one.
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What drivers say about Singapore
★★★★★★4.5
★★★★★5
"I travelled with a friend and booked online with brand:bookingcar. The confirmation came through instantly and we could easily review all terms before paying. At the desk, staff were friendly, didn’t push extras, and upgraded us to a slightly larger car at no cost."
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Olivia Chen
Singapore
★★★★★5
"I travelled with a friend and our rental worked out perfectly. Booking online was clear and simple, and we got exactly the car category we expected. It was comfortable for long drives, very economical on fuel, and the staff were helpful without pushing extras."
A
Amelia Johnson
Singapore
★★★★★5
"I rented a car for a work and sightseeing mix, and everything went perfectly. The car was modern, very clean, with great fuel economy. Staff gave helpful tips for local driving rules, and the whole pickup and return process felt efficient and professional."
Booking 2 to 4 weeks ahead is usually enough for Singapore, as supply is generally good. During peak periods such as Chinese New Year, major exhibitions or school holidays, aim for 4 to 6 weeks in advance. Early booking gives you a wider choice of vehicles, better rates, and more time to compare suppliers and insurance options.
Most Singapore rental companies place a pre-authorisation hold on your card, typically released within 3 to 10 working days after you return the car in good condition. The exact timing depends on your bank and card issuer. Some offers feature reduced or zero deposits, but always check the rental conditions to see how and when the hold is released.
The excess is the maximum amount you must pay if the car is damaged or stolen, even when basic insurance is included. In Singapore, it commonly ranges from about SGD 1,500 to SGD 4,000, depending on vehicle class and supplier. You can often buy extra cover to reduce or eliminate this excess, either directly from the rental company or through separate excess insurance.
Many Singapore suppliers still require a major credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit. However, some local and international companies offer no-deposit or low-deposit deals, and a few accept debit cards if certain conditions are met. A small number of offers may advertise no deposit, no credit card rentals; always read the payment and deposit rules before booking.
For a small to mid-size car, expect around SGD 80 to SGD 140 per day, depending on season, demand and how early you book. Weekday rates can be lower than weekends, and larger vehicles, SUVs or luxury models cost more. Long-term rentals may offer better daily prices, but always check what is included, such as mileage, insurance and toll device fees.
Bookingcar compares prices and conditions from many rental companies in Singapore so you can see deals side by side. By viewing multiple suppliers at once, you can quickly find competitive rates, suitable vehicle types and insurance options that match your needs. The comparison approach helps you spot promotions or special offers that individual companies may not clearly highlight.
Returning the car late in Singapore usually leads to additional charges, often calculated by the hour and then as an extra day once a threshold is passed. Rates for late returns are set in the rental contract. Some companies allow a short grace period, but this is not guaranteed. If you know you will be delayed, contact the rental branch in advance to discuss options.
Typical Singapore speed limits are:
50 km/h on most built-up urban roads, unless otherwise signed
40 km/h in some school zones and residential areas with traffic calming
60 to 70 km/h on selected major arterial roads, as signposted
80 to 90 km/h on expressways, depending on the specific expressway and posted limits
Always follow local signs as they override general limits.
Singapore enforces strict penalties. Expect substantial fines for speeding, illegal parking and running red lights, along with demerit points on your driving record. Serious offences such as dangerous driving, driving under the influence or hit-and-run can lead to very high fines, licence suspension or revocation, vehicle impoundment, and even imprisonment for severe or repeat violations.
The legal blood alcohol limit in Singapore is 0.08% (80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood) or 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 ml of breath. Enforcement is strict, with heavy fines, possible imprisonment and disqualification from driving for offenders. Because penalties are severe and checkpoints are common, it is safest to avoid drinking altogether if you plan to drive.
Fuel prices in Singapore change frequently, but as a rough recent guide, 95-octane petrol often costs around SGD 2.60 to SGD 2.90 per litre, with premium grades slightly higher. Diesel is usually a bit cheaper per litre. Prices vary by brand and promotions, so check local petrol stations or fuel apps for up-to-date rates before a long journey.
Singapore uses an Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system rather than traditional toll booths. Gantries on busy roads and expressways charge variable fees depending on time and congestion. Rental cars are typically equipped with an in-vehicle unit; charges are deducted from a stored-value card or billed to you later. Some expressways and routes have no ERP charges, especially outside peak periods.
