Singapore

What is the penalty for racing on public roads?

$5,000
Max fine
12 months
Max jail term
12 months
Min driving ban
Section 116
RTA provision
The Short Answer

Racing on public roads in Singapore is illegal and punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both — and disqualification from driving for at least 12 months.

What the Law Says

The Road Traffic Act makes it a criminal offence to race or compete with another vehicle on a public road. The law sets clear penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and mandatory disqualification from driving.

Under Section 116 of the Road Traffic Act, any person who drives a motor vehicle on a public road in a manner that involves racing, contesting, or competing with another vehicle commits an offence.

This includes not only high-speed chases but also any form of competitive driving — such as trying to overtake another vehicle for sport or timing a run — on roads open to the public.

The law applies regardless of whether the driver causes danger or injury; the act of racing itself is sufficient for conviction.

Statutory Text

Any person who drives a motor vehicle on a public road in a manner which involves racing, contesting or competing with another vehicle shall be guilty of an offence.

— Road Traffic Act, s. 116 — Racing on public roads
Statutory Text

Any person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or to both and shall, in addition, be disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence for a period of not less than 12 months.

— Road Traffic Act, s. 116 — Racing on public roads

What to Do

1

Stop all forms of competitive or timed driving on public roads immediately.

2

If charged, seek legal advice before pleading guilty — disqualification is mandatory and affects employment, insurance, and daily mobility.

3

Attend traffic offender programmes if offered, though they do not replace statutory penalties.

4

Apply for reissue of driving licence only after full disqualification period ends (minimum 12 months).

Sources

statuteRoad Traffic Act, s. 116 — Racing on public roads

Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.