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Singapore Highway Code Overview

The Highway Code outlines the responsibilities and conduct expected from all road users in Singapore, emphasizing cooperation to reduce accidents. It includes guidelines for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers regarding safe practices, road crossings, and the use of signals. The document serves as a crucial resource for understanding traffic laws and ensuring road safety.

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ivanchuah315
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
33 views32 pages

Singapore Highway Code Overview

The Highway Code outlines the responsibilities and conduct expected from all road users in Singapore, emphasizing cooperation to reduce accidents. It includes guidelines for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers regarding safe practices, road crossings, and the use of signals. The document serves as a crucial resource for understanding traffic laws and ensuring road safety.

Uploaded by

ivanchuah315
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Highway Code

Table of Contents

Part I All Road Users

2 (Deleted)

Part II Road users on foot

7 Walking along the road

9 (Deleted)

10 Crossing the road

10A

10B

11

12

13
Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
14

15 Pedestrian crossings

16

17

18

19

20

20A

21 Crossing the Road at Junction

22 Signal Controlled Crossings

23

24

25

26 Police-controlled Crossings

27 Pedestrian overpasses and underpasses

28 Getting on or off Public Vehicles

Part III Pedal cyclists, recumbent device riders and power-assisted bicycle riders

29 When Riding

30

31

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
32

33

34

35

35A

35B

36

37

38 Roadworthiness

39 General

40

41

42 (Deleted)

43

44

Part IIIA USE OF CROSSINGS, AND USE OF PERSONAL MOBILITY


DEVICES, ETC.

44A Use of crossings by pedal cyclists, riders of power-assisted bicycles


or personal mobility devices, etc.

44B Crossing speed

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
44C Use of personal mobility devices, mobility scooters and motorised
wheelchairs

Part IV ROAD USERS ON WHEEL

45

46 Moving off

47 Driving along

48

49

49A

50 Keep left

51

52 White Lines

53

54

55

56

57

58

59

60 Overtaking

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
61 Overtaking on the Right

62

63

64

65

U-Turn

66

67 Following Distances

68

69 Speed and Stopping Distances

69A Road Junctions

70

71

72

73

74

75

76

77 Safety of Pedestrians, Pedal Cyclists, etc.

78

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
79

80

81

82

83

84 Reversing

85

86

Mirror and signals

87

88

89

90

Stopping and parking

91

92

93

94

95 Lights

96

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97

98

99

100

HEAVY MOTOR VEHICLES

101

102

SMOKY AND NOISY EXHAUSTS

103

104

ROADWORTHINESS

105

GENERAL

106

107

108

109

110

Part V ROAD USERS AND ANIMALS

111

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112

113

SIGNS AND SIGNALS

114

SIGNALS GIVEN BY POLICE OFFICER

115

HAND SIGNALS

116

COMMON CAUSES OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS

117

Legislative History

ROAD TRAFFIC ACT


(CHAPTER 276, SECTION 112)

HIGHWAY CODE
R 11

G.N. No. S 8/1975

REVISED EDITION 1990

(25th March 1992)

[17th January 1975]

PART I
Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
ALL ROAD USERS
1. The Highway Code is a code of conduct and not a digest of traffic laws. It lays
stress on the responsibilities of road users towards each other.
2. [Deleted by S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]
3. Road traffic requires the co-operation of all road users for its smooth and efficient
operation. This Highway Code tells you how you can co-operate with other road users in
reducing the number of accidents.
4. Always be considerate, courteous, vigilant and sober. Remember that alcohol
reduces the alertness of the driver and often the sense of caution. Other road users too
must always be sober, particularly cyclists and pedestrians. Many fatal accidents are
caused by negligence, lack of consideration for others and the influence of alcohol.
5. Study and understand the traffic signals and traffic signs set out in this Code and
the Road Traffic (Traffic Signs) Rules (R 33), and use them or obey them, as the case
may be.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

6. Read this Highway Code, study it and understand it, and then pass on your
knowledge to others, especially to children.

PART II

ROAD USERS ON FOOT

Walking along the road


7. If there is no footpath and you have to walk along the road, then walk as close as
possible to the edge of the road. Avoid using any mobile communication device while
walking along the road.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

8. If you walk on an unlit or dimly lit road at night, always wear or carry something
light-coloured or reflective. This will help to make you more visible to motorists.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

9. [Deleted by S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

Crossing the road


10. Where a pedestrian crossing is available, always use the pedestrian crossing to
cross the road. Where a pedestrian crossing is not available, always cross the road by the
shortest possible route, which is from one side to the other. Do not risk death or injury

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
by trying to cross at other places in heavy traffic. You must also obey the traffic signs
and traffic lights.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

10A. While crossing any road, make sure you have a clear view of the road both
ways. Take extra care if your view is limited by stationary vehicles or other obstruction.
Before crossing, practise the kerb drill for crossing the road mentioned in paragraph 13.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

10B. Avoid using any mobile communication device while crossing any road.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

11. Before you risk crossing the road in front of an approaching motor vehicle
remember that although you could stop almost immediately, a motor vehicle would have
to travel a considerable distance before it stops. Be aware that the stopping distance of a
moving vehicle varies with the speed of the vehicle, the distance travelled by the vehicle
when a driver reacts, and the braking distance of the vehicle (refer to paragraph 69).
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

12. In rainy weather do not rush across the street with your head down, or with an
umbrella obscuring your view.
13. Teach children the kerb drill for crossing the road, which is “look right, look left,
then look right again, and if the road is clear, quick march”.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

14. Do not follow other pedestrians blindly without yourself checking that it is safe to
cross.

Pedestrian crossings
15. Do not step onto a pedestrian crossing until approaching vehicles have come to a
complete stop. When crossing at a pedestrian crossing, be alert for vehicles being driven
inconsiderately and without care or attention. If possible, make eye contact with drivers
to ensure that they are aware of your presence.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

16. Take extra care at night. Remember that unless a pedestrian crossing is floodlit, it
may not show up very clearly. On rainy nights the markings may be almost invisible to
an approaching driver.
17. When you have stepped off the kerb on to a pedestrian crossing you have the
right of way but allow approaching vehicles ample time to give way, especially if the
road is wet.
18. Do not stand on the pavement at a pedestrian crossing if you do not intend to
cross the road.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
19. Once you are on the pedestrian crossing, look right and left as you cross, because
a driver may not have seen you.
20. Where a pedestrian crossing has a central refuge, each half is a separate crossing
and you should treat it as such.
20A. If there is a choice between using a bicycle crossing or a pedestrian crossing to
cross a road, use the pedestrian crossing.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

Crossing the Road at Junction


21. When crossing the road at junctions, look out for vehicles negotiating the corner.

Signal Controlled Crossings


22. At a light controlled crossing, wait on the footway until the traffic, in front of
which you intend to cross, has come to a standstill.
23. If traffic lights have a “green man” signal, do not cross until the signal appears. If
possible, make eye contact with drivers to ensure that they are aware of your presence.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

24. Pedestrian signals portray ‘a standing red man’ and a ‘walking green man’.
(1) When the ‘walking green man’ is lighted up, you may cross.
(2) When the ‘walking green man’ starts flickering, it means that the light will change
soon, so —
(a) if you are already crossing, move briskly across; or
(b) if you are about to start crossing, do not cross.
(3) When the ‘stationary red man’ is lighted up, do not cross.
25. When push-buttons are provided on the traffic signal pole, push the button if you
want the ‘green man’ to appear and wait until the ‘green man’ appears before crossing.

Police-controlled Crossings
26. Do not cross the road against a signal to stop given by a police officer controlling
traffic.

Pedestrian overpasses and underpasses


27. Where there is a pedestrian overpass or an underpass, you must make use of it.
Pedestrian overpasses and underpasses are built for your safety and must always be used
when crossing the road.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

Getting on or off Public Vehicles


28. Do not get on or off a bus while it is moving, or when it is not at a bus stop. Do
not step out suddenly from behind a stationary or slowly moving bus. If you want to get
on a bus at a bus stop, give a clear signal for it to stop. Do not step onto the road until it
has stopped.

PART III

PEDAL CYCLISTS, RECUMBENT DEVICE RIDERS AND POWER-ASSISTED


BICYCLE RIDERS
[S 656/2024 wef 01/03/2024]
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

When Riding
29. Always ride on the left-hand edge of a roadway. Allow other traffic to overtake
you safely. Keep a straight course and avoid sudden swerves.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

30. If a road has a full-day bicycle lane or part-day bicycle lane, cycle on the full-day
bicycle lane or part-day bicycle lane (during its operating hours) and no other part of the
road, except when that bicycle lane is blocked or obstructed, or making a U-turn or right
turn.
[S 2856/2022 wef 16/10/2022]

31. Ride in a single file when possible.


[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

32. Do not swerve in and out of vehicles in traffic. When traffic is slow, keep your
place and do not attempt to get in front of the other vehicles by weaving in and out of the
narrow spaces between them.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

33. Keep a safe distance from the rear of a motor vehicle (especially when riding
behind a moving vehicle) so as to avoid collision if the vehicle in front stops suddenly.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

34. When riding, maintain awareness of traffic.


[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

35. Slow down and look out for other road users when approaching road accesses,
bends, junctions, and crossings, or when passing a parked motor vehicle. When passing a
parked motor vehicle, beware of the vehicle door opening. Allow a margin of safety
when passing.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
35A. Do not squeeze between a bus at a bus stop and the bus stop kerb.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

35B. Avoid staying close to the rear of a turning motor vehicle or squeezing between
the turning vehicle and the road kerb.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]

36. If a hill is so steep that the bicycle, three-wheeled pedal cycle or recumbent
device you are riding on wobbles before you reach the top, get off and walk with the
bicycle, three-wheeled pedal cycle or recumbent device. Keep your cycling speed under
control on downhill roads. If you travel too fast, you will not be able to stop in time in an
emergency.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]
[S 656/2024 wef 01/03/2024]

37. Do not hold on to the back or side of motor vehicles.

Roadworthiness
38. Check that your bicycle’s, three-wheeled pedal cycle’s or recumbent device’s
front and back lights, brakes, tyres and chain are in safe working condition before setting
off. Check the height of the bicycle’s, three-wheeled pedal cycle’s or recumbent device’s
handlebars and seat. If you are unable to touch the ground with your foot on either side
of the bicycle, three-wheeled pedal cycle or recumbent device, your seat is too high and
you will not have full control of the bicycle, three-wheeled pedal cycle or recumbent
device when coming to a sudden stop in an emergency.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]
[S 656/2024 wef 01/03/2024]

General
39. You must switch on your bicycle, three-wheeled pedal cycle or recumbent device
lights at night or when visibility is low. Your bicycle’s, three-wheeled pedal cycle’s or
recumbent device’s front light must show a white light, and the rear of your bicycle,
three-wheeled pedal cycle or recumbent device must display a red light or be affixed
with a red reflector. The front white light and the rear red light or rear red reflector (as
the case may be) must be visible from a reasonable distance. If you ride at night, wear
light-coloured clothing. This will help drivers of other vehicles and pedestrians to see
you clearly.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]
[S 656/2024 wef 01/03/2024]

40. Keep both hands on the handlebars of your bicycle, three-wheeled pedal cycle or
recumbent device. When signalling your intention to change direction or make a turn, do
so ahead of time and return your hand to the handlebars, before you actually start to turn.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]
[S 656/2024 wef 01/03/2024]

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
41. Do not carry anything in your arm that may interfere with the proper control of
your bicycle, three-wheeled pedal cycle or recumbent device.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]
[S 656/2024 wef 01/03/2024]

42. [Deleted by S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]


43. Always use the safest route, and keep out of heavy traffic as much as possible.
44. Always obey the law and observe all traffic rules. Never ignore road signs.

PART IIIA

USE OF CROSSINGS, AND USE OF PERSONAL


MOBILITY DEVICES, ETC.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

Use of crossings by pedal cyclists, riders of power-assisted bicycles or personal mobility


devices, etc.
44A. Pedal cyclists, riders of power-assisted bicycles or personal mobility devices,
and drivers of mobility scooters or motorised wheelchairs must use a bicycle crossing, if
there is a choice between using a bicycle crossing or a pedestrian crossing.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

Crossing speed
44B. Pedal cyclists, riders of power-assisted bicycles or personal mobility devices,
and drivers of mobility scooters or motorised wheelchairs should only cross a pedestrian
crossing, bicycle crossing, zebra crossing or informal crossing, or the entrance or exit to
a car park, at walking speed.

Use of personal mobility devices, mobility scooters and motorised wheelchairs


44C. Do not ride a personal mobility device (other than a three-wheeled pedal cycle
or recumbent device), or drive a mobility scooter or a motorised wheelchair, on any road.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]
[S 656/2024 wef 01/03/2024]

PART IV

ROAD USERS ON WHEEL


[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

45. Before you drive any motor vehicle on the road for which a driving licence is
required, you must have a valid driving licence authorising you to drive that motor
vehicle, and be covered by valid insurance in respect of that motor vehicle.
Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

Moving off
46. Before you move off, look around, even though you may have looked in your
mirror, to see that no one is about to overtake you. Give the proper signal before moving
off, and only move off when you can do so safely and without inconvenience to other
road users. Give way to passing and overtaking vehicles.

Driving along
47. Do not exceed legal speed limits. Always obey the “Reduce Speed Now” sign.
48. Adjust your speed to the conditions of the road on which you are travelling. Such
adjustment will enable you to stop in any emergency without skidding or losing control.
49. A good driver automatically reduces his speed when —
(a) entering a built-up area;
(b) approaching a school or a bus with children alighting or boarding;
(c) travelling on narrow, winding roads;
(d) approaching children who are playing; or
(e) approaching a bend, brow of a hill, or any other obstruction that limits his
view.
49A. Do not drive, stop or park your motor vehicle on a full-day bicycle lane at any
time or a part-day bicycle lane at any time during its operating hours.
[S 1217/2018 wef 05/05/2018]
[S 2856/2022 wef 16/10/2022]

Keep left
50. When driving along, do not hog the middle of the road. Keep well to the left and
as near as practicable to the edge of the road (including on dual carriageways) unless ––
(a) you intend to overtake;
(b) you intend to turn right; or
(c) there is —
(i) a full-day bicycle lane, in which case, you should keep to the
left-most vehicle lane at any time; or

(ii) a part-day bicycle lane, in which case, you should keep to the

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
left-most vehicle lane at any time during the operating hours of
the part-day bicycle lane.
[S 2856/2022 wef 16/10/2022]

51. You must not cross the centre line at bends, near the crest of a rise or anywhere
else where you cannot clearly see the road ahead.

White Lines
52. Where continuous double white lines are painted on a road to separate traffic
flowing in opposite directions, you may not overtake at the double white lines unless you
keep entirely to the left of such lines.
53. Never cross double white lines. Making a U-turn or a right turn is not allowed on
a road where such lines are painted.
54. Never cross a single continuous or broken white line along the middle of the road
unless you can see that the road ahead is clear.
Lane Discipline

55. You must obey the directions indicated by arrows or words marked in the lanes.
See illustration above. You must not change lanes so suddenly as to inconvenience or
endanger other traffic. Signal early before changing lanes and plan your route well.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

56. In traffic hold-ups, do not “jump the queue”.


57. Well before you reach a junction, make sure that you are in the appropriate lane.
58. On a two-lane carriageway, keep to the left-hand lane except when overtaking.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
59. On a three-lane carriageway, you may keep to the central lane when the left-hand
lane is occupied by slower moving vehicles. The outer (right-hand) lane is for overtaking
only; do not stay in it longer than necessary after overtaking vehicles in the centre lane.

Overtaking
60. Never overtake unless you can do so without danger to yourself or others. Be
specially careful at night, and in heavy rain and mist, as it is more difficult to judge speed
and distance at such times.

Overtaking on the Right


61. This rule does not apply —
(a) when the driver in front has signalled his intention to turn right, in which
case you can overtake him on his left;
(b) when you are filtering to the left before a junction; or
(c) when there is slow-moving congested traffic and the vehicles on your right
are moving more slowly than your vehicle.
62. Return to the appropriate lane on the road as soon as practicable after overtaking,
but do not cut in sharply in front of the vehicle you have just overtaken.
63. Do not overtake when you are at, or when you are approaching —
(a) a pedestrian crossing;
(b) a road junction;
(c) a corner or bend;
(d) the brow of a hill; or
(e) a double white line.
64. Do not overtake —
(a) where the road narrows;
(b) if it would force another vehicle to swerve or reduce speed; or
(c) if in doubt.
65. When being overtaken, never increase speed to prevent another driver from
passing.

U-TURN

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
66. Do not make a U-turn at any road intersection, junction or any opening in a road
divider unless permitted to do so by a traffic sign.

Following Distances
67. To be able to adjust your speed so that you can stop within the space between you
and the vehicle in front, you must allow at least one car length for every 16 km/h of your
speed.

[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

68. Watch for the stop light on the car in front and the traffic ahead of the car in front.

Speed and Stopping Distances


69. Be aware that the stopping distance of a moving vehicle consists of the distance
travelled by the vehicle when a driver reacts, and the braking distance of the vehicle.

[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

Road Junctions

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
69A. When approaching a junction, you must observe the following:
(a) If you are going straight across the junction, you must give way to traffic
going straight from the right.

(b) If you are turning right, you must give way to traffic going from all
directions. You must also give way to traffic turning right from the right,
and to traffic turning left from the opposite direction.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
(c) If you are turning left, you must give way to traffic going straight from the
right.

[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

70. When approaching a junction with a major road, slow down gradually and give
way to traffic on the major road. Where there is a “STOP” sign, stop at the major road.
71. Where there are no traffic lights, give way signs or stop signs, give way to all
traffic on your right, including cyclists. See illustrations in paragraph 69A.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

72. At a junction look right, then left, then right again. Do not move off until you are
sure that it is safe to do so.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

73. Well before you turn right at a junction, take full account of the position and
movement of traffic behind you. Signal your intention early, and drive cautiously
towards the centre of the junction. Give way to approaching vehicles and crossing
pedestrians adjacent to you. Wait until it is safe to cross or wait for the green arrow
signal to appear. Turn swiftly to the correct lane, keeping a look-out for pedestrians
crossing at the junction.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

74. If you intend to turn left, keep to the left, signal in good time, and do not swing
out to the right either before or after making the turn.
75. When turning left or right, drivers must always give way to vehicles going
straight on and to pedestrians.
76. Slow down when approaching a roundabout, and give way to traffic on your right.

Remember — you must always give way to traffic approaching from your right. The
general rule is that —
traffic from Lane A in this illustration goes to ‘A’;

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
traffic from Lane B goes to ‘B’; and

traffic from Lane C goes to ‘C’.

If, however, you find your correct lane overcrowded, you may use another lane to reach
your destination: Provided that —
(a) you give clear signals showing your intention in good time;
(b) you obey the right-hand rule;
(c) you do not inconvenience other drivers;
(d) you use your mirror intelligently to see that you do not obstruct the path of
vehicles behind you.

Safety of Pedestrians, Pedal Cyclists, etc.


77. Pedestrians, pedal cyclists, riders of power-assisted bicycles or personal mobility
devices, and drivers of mobility scooters or motorised wheelchairs have the right of way
on pedestrian crossings.
[S 244/2019 wef 01/02/2019]

78. When approaching a pedestrian crossing slow down and do not overtake other
vehicles.
79. When approaching a pedestrian crossing always —
(a) be ready to slow down or stop so as to give way to pedestrians, pedal
cyclists, riders of power-assisted bicycles or personal mobility devices, and
drivers of mobility scooters or motorised wheelchairs;
[S 244/2019 wef 01/02/2019]

(b) signal to other drivers your intention to slow down or stop; and
(c) allow yourself more time to stop when road is wet.
80. At a pedestrian crossing controlled by light signals or by a policeman, give way to
pedestrians, pedal cyclists, riders of power-assisted bicycles or personal mobility
devices, and drivers of mobility scooters or motorised wheelchairs who are crossing
when the signal to stop is given.
[S 244/2019 wef 01/02/2019]

81. When a school patrol sign is extended at a pedestrian crossing, vehicles travelling
in both directions must stop and remain stationary until the whole crossing is clear and
the sign has been removed.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
82. Watch for the pedestrian, pedal cyclist, rider of a power-assisted bicycle or
personal mobility device, or driver of a mobility scooter or motorised wheelchair who
comes out suddenly from behind stationary vehicles and other obstructions. Be very
careful near schools and bus stops. When turning at a road junction, give way to
pedestrians, pedal cyclists, riders of power-assisted bicycles or personal mobility
devices, and drivers of mobility scooters or motorised wheelchairs who are crossing.
[S 244/2019 wef 01/02/2019]

83. When driving (especially on any road without a path beside it) —
(a) watch out for pedestrians, pedal cyclists, riders of power-assisted bicycles
or personal mobility devices, and drivers of mobility scooters or motorised
wheelchairs, regardless of whether they are allowed on the road;
(b) keep a safe distance when driving behind them; and
(c) allow a margin of safety when passing them.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

Reversing
84. Before you reverse make sure that there are no children or other pedestrians or
obstructions in the blind area behind you.
85. Do not reverse from a side road onto a main road.
86. If your view to the rear is restricted, get help when reversing.

MIRROR AND SIGNALS


87. Keep a watch on the traffic behind you by checking your mirror every 5 to 10
seconds while driving along.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

88. Well before you change direction, overtake or stop —


(a) look into your mirror (if you are a motor-cyclist glance to the side or
behind);
(b) make sure that it is safe; and
(c) give a clear signal to indicate that you intend to do so.
89. Everytime you intend to turn, stop or slow down, give the correct signal. Signal in
good time and maintain the signal long enough to enable others to anticipate your
movement. Make sure that your direction indicator gives the signal intended, and that it
is cancelled immediately after use.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
90. Hand signals are given not only for the benefit of following traffic but also for
oncoming traffic, traffic waiting in side streets and pedestrians. Most cars today have
signalling devices but in broad daylight hand signalling is more readily seen and
understood. Do not allow passengers to give hand signals. See that children do not hold
their arms or dangle toys out of the windows of the car, for their arms or toys may be
mistaken for hand signals. It is also dangerous for children to do this.

STOPPING AND PARKING


91. Do not park (which means to bring a motor vehicle to a stationary position and
cause it to wait for any purpose) or let your vehicle stand —
(a) at a bend, the brow of a hill or a bridge;
(b) on a footway or cycle track;
(c) near traffic lights or pedestrian crossings;
(d) on a main road or on a road carrying fast-moving traffic;
(e) opposite or nearly opposite another stationary vehicle across the road,
opposite a refuge or other obstruction (e.g. road repairs);
(f) abreast of another vehicle;
(g) opposite a continuous white line, double white lines or any other traffic
sign prohibiting parking;
(h) near any road side on which a single yellow line (from 7.00 a.m. to 7.00
p.m.) or double yellow lines are painted;
(i) within —
(i) 6 metres (20 feet) of an intersection or a junction of any road or
street;

(ii) 9 metres (30 feet) on either side of a bus stop; or

(iii) 3 metres (10 feet) on either side of a fire hydrant;


[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

(ia) where it will obscure a traffic sign or obstruct any entrance;


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(j) facing oncoming traffic;


(k) on any slip road or filter lane;
(l) on a fly-over, underpass or the ramps leading to any fly-over or underpass;

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
(m) on the grass verge of a road;
(n) in any bus lane; or
(o) at any designated taxi stop.
92. Before opening the door of a vehicle make sure that it will not endanger or
inconvenience anybody on the road or footpath. Get out on the side nearest to the kerb
whenever it is possible.
93. When you have to stop, pull in as close as possible to the edge of the road. This
applies especially to drivers of buses when setting down or picking up passengers.
94. Do remember that you are not allowed to leave any broken-down or wrecked
vehicle on any public road. If your vehicle breaks down on the road, push it into a break
down bay if there is one, otherwise push it as close to the side of the road as possible and
arrange for it to be towed away immediately so as not to cause obstruction to the free
flow of traffic.

Lights
95. You must drive with your headlights on at night (between 7.00 p.m. and 7.00 a.m.
the following day).
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

96. Use dipped headlights at night in built-up areas where the street lighting is poor,
or during rainy weather.
97. On unlit or dimly lit roads always use your headlights. When meeting other
vehicles and cyclists, dip your headlights. If you are dazzled by the lights of another
vehicle, slow down and stop if necessary.

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98. When driving behind another vehicle, dip your headlights.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
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99. In daytime whenever visibility is poor or if it is raining switch on your lights. This
will enable other road users to see you.
100. It is advisable when parking in unlit or poorly lit roads at night to leave your side
or parking lights on.

HEAVY MOTOR VEHICLES


101. Drivers of large vehicles must always —
(a) keep such vehicles to the road or vehicle speed limit (whichever is lower);
and
(b) travel on the extreme left lane of the road (except for bus lanes during their
operating hours) to allow faster vehicles to overtake on the right.
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102. Any goods vehicle which has an open deck for the carriage of goods and is to be
used to carry any person on the floor of the vehicle must comply with the applicable
requirements in the Road Traffic (Motor Vehicles, Construction and Use) Rules (R 9).
Persons carried in a goods vehicle with an open deck for the carriage of goods must be
seated in accordance with the Road Traffic (Carriage of Persons in Goods Vehicles)
Rules 2010 (G.N. No. S 663/2010).
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SMOKY AND NOISY EXHAUSTS


103. All vehicles must be properly maintained to minimise the emission of smoke.
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104. All vehicles must be properly maintained to eliminate excessive noise.


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Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
ROADWORTHINESS
105. For safety, you must maintain your vehicle in a roadworthy condition. This
includes the following:

(a) Tyres

All vehicles are to be fitted with tyres of a suitable size and design. Keep
your tyres up to the correct pressure. Tyres that have worn out must be
replaced. Worn out or bald tyres cause skids when you brake hard in an
emergency, whether the road is wet or dry.

(b) Brakes

Check your brakes regularly to ensure that they are in a good condition.
Any leakage of brake fluid must be attended to without delay.

(c) Steering

The steering assembly of your car must be regularly checked, properly


adjusted and kept in good condition.

(d) Lights

Check all your lights, including parking lights and signalling lights, to
make sure that they are working properly.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

GENERAL
106. Sounding your horn when driving is unnecessary, except to warn other road
users to avoid an imminent accident or during an emergency. Horns used must not
produce an unduly harsh, shrill, loud or multi-tone sound.
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107. You must give way upon hearing the emergency siren of any motor vehicle used
for ambulance, fire brigade, military, police, customs or civil defence purposes (called in
this paragraph an emergency vehicle) or seeing the flashing lights of such a vehicle. In
addition, you must observe the following:
(a) Stay calm and check the direction of the oncoming emergency vehicle.
(b) Give way by signalling early and filter towards the left if it is safe to do so.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
Do not wait until the last minute to do so.
(c) If you are unable to filter to the left safely, slow down to let the emergency
vehicle overtake you.
(d) Do not speed up to block an overtaking emergency vehicle or try to
overtake or tailgate an emergency vehicle as this can put yourself and other
road users in danger.
(e) Do not break the law to give way to an emergency vehicle (e.g. by driving
through a red light).
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108. Drivers must not be distracted while driving. Do not use any mobile
communication device or turn your head to talk with your passengers while driving.
Children and pets must not be allowed to obstruct or distract the driver.
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109. Reduce your speed when driving past animals, and give them plenty of room.
Stop if necessary or if signalled to do so.
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110. Always slow down when approaching any traffic lights and be prepared to stop
when the traffic light turns amber or red.
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PART V

ROAD USERS AND ANIMALS


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111. Do not let your dog stray. When you take it for a walk, or when it is in your car,
keep it under close control.
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112. Make sure that the road is clear before you allow, or take, animals on to the
road.
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113. When leading an animal on the road, always place yourself between it and the
traffic, and keep the animal to the edge of the road.
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SIGNS AND SIGNALS


114. When turning, give way to through traffic and to pedestrians who are crossing.

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
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SIGNALS GIVEN BY POLICE OFFICER


115. Signals given by police officers directing traffic take precedence over those
conveyed by road signs, traffic light signals, road markings and traffic regulations.

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HAND SIGNALS
116. Before doing any of the following, give a clear signal and in good time to let
other road users know of your intention:
(a) turning or moving towards the right or left;
(b) stopping or slowing down;
(c) pulling out from a parking place;

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
(d) pulling out to pass.

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COMMON CAUSES OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS


117. The following are common causes of traffic accidents:
(a) failing to keep a proper lookout;
(b) failing to keep proper control of one’s vehicle;
(c) failing to give way to traffic with the right of way;
(d) changing lane without due care;
(e) disobeying traffic light signals.
[S 3173/2019 wef 01/12/2019]

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025
HIGHWAY CODE

This Legislative History is provided for the convenience of users of the Highway Code. It is not
part of this Code.

1. G. N. No. S 8/1975—Highway Code 1975


Date of commencement : 17 January 1975

2. 1990 Revised Edition—Highway Code


Date of operation : 25 March 1992

3. G.N. No. S 1217/2018—Highway (Revision) Code 2018


Date of commencement : 5 May 2018

4. G.N. No. S 244/2019—Highway (Revision) Code 2019


Date of commencement : 1 February 2019

5. G.N. No. S 3173/2019—Highway (Revision No. 2) Code 2019


Date of commencement : 1 December 2019

6. G.N. No. S 2856/2022—Highway (Revision) Code 2022


Date of commencement : 16 October 2022

7. G.N. No. S 656/2024—Highway (Revision) Code 2024


Date of commencement : 1 March 2024

Singapore Statutes Online Current version as at 12 Jan 2025 PDF created date on: 12 Jan 2025

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