Revised driving licence requirements extended to all heavier EVs up to 3,000kg from June 15

Electric LGVs and small buses are typically between 400kg and 500kg heavier than ICE vehicles due to their battery weight. These batteries are usually positioned beneath the vehicle floor, creating a lower centre of gravity and enhancing vehicle stability.

These fundamental characteristics of such electric vehicles (EVs) on the road – such as steering and turning radius – as well as their dimensions – such as wheelbase and length – are also similar to ICE vehicles that Class 3 and 3A licence holders are permitted to drive, the TP noted.

Existing Class 3 or 3A licence holders will automatically qualify to drive eLGVs and electric small buses up to 3,000kg in ULW. No additional endorsement, update, or modification to their licence is needed.

However, electric vehicles exceeding the new 3,000kg ULW threshold still require a Class 4 or 4P licence to operate, as the TP said that such heavier vehicles “may have different handling characteristics that require additional driving competencies”.

Similarly, drivers of ICE vehicles exceeding 2,500kg in ULW must hold a Class 4 or 4P driving licence, as these vehicles “have different weight distributions and designs” compared to their electric counterparts.

Drivers can check if their electric vehicle qualifies under the higher ULW threshold by referring to their vehicle’s registration card or the Land Transport Authority registration details through the OneMotoring portal.

Alternatively, they can contact their vehicle manufacturer or authorised dealer for the technical specifications, or check the manufacturer’s vehicle identification number plate.

Those convicted of driving electric vehicles heavier than 3,000kg with only a Class 3 or 3A licence face up to three years in jail, a fine of up to $10,000, or both.

“TP will continually review driving licence requirements to facilitate EV adoption while maintaining road safety standards,” the traffic police said.