Singapore
Asia's cosmopolitan city
Singapore travel, Getting around, public transport

Taxi in Singapore

More than 20,000 taxis run around the streets of Singapore.  They are air-conditioned, clean, comfortable and you don't have to wait too long before you stop one along the street (unless it rains heavily or if you find yourself in a small suburb, away from the central areas...).

Taxis are a good option when you need a short distance drive (for example: From a certain MRT station to a nearby place), or when you need to get to a place which is far from the public transport network.  They can be found everywhere and fares are relatively low. 

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In the city centre, taxis can not be stopped anywhere along the street.

There are designated taxi stops along the city's busiest commercial streets, as well as outside main buildings.  In other parts of the city, taxis can be stopped anywhere along the streets although they cannot pick up or drop off passengers in restricted areas.

 

These are the basic rates for taxis in Singapore:

  • Flag fall is SG$ 2.80 and includes the first one kilometer (or less, if your drive is shorter than one kilometer...).
  • Every additional 385 meters (or less) will cost you SG$ 0.20 (up to 10 kilometers)
  • Every additional 330 meters (or less) will cost you SG$ 0.20 (that is beyond the first 10 kilometers)
  • Every 45 seconds of waiting costs SG$ 0.20

Additional surcharges may apply in all sorts of situations, for example:  

  • If you wish to carry extra luggage or pets
  • If you make an advance booking (either by telephone or via internet)
  • If you take a taxi during peak hours, or late at night, or on public holidays.
  • If you take a taxi from the airport or from Singapore expo.
  • If you pass through a toll road (ERP) or if you enter CBD in certain hours.
  • If you choose to pay with your credit card, instead of cash, an additional 10% administrative charge on the total fare is also incurred.

Click here for the best rates in Singapore

Although some of the above surcharges can inflate the costs, they are not likely to effect your pocket too much... (that is beacause taxi rides in Singapore are normally short...)

 

All taxis can travel to and from the airport.

 

Most drivers speak reasonable English and are pretty much familiar with the metropolis.

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Wide choice of books and maps about Singapore and Southeast Asia

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When taking a taxi, please note :

  • You must wear seat belts at all times, whether sitting in the front or back.
  • The meter has to be on. Always refer to it for the exact charge.
  •  All taxis are regulated - drivers have to display their identity sign.
  • Ask the driver to give you a receipt. It will help you to trace the car, in case you left something behind.  (you can simply call the booking hotline of the company the taxi belongs to).
  • If you face any problems or disagreements, write down the driver's name and license plate number, as shown on the Taxi driver identity sign.  You might need this details if you wish to lodge a complaint

A small tip from 'Metropolasia-Man':

If you are stuck somewhere late at night and no taxi pass by, you can call The common taxi number ( 6342 5222 ) and wait till it channels to the first station that is free to take your call.

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You may also want to read about...

EZ-Link card and Singapore Tourist Pass (STP)

To and from Changi International Airport

Transport to tourist attractions and Hop-on, Hop-off buses

MRT - Subway

Bus

LRT (Light suburban train), Trishaw and other means of transport