SingaporeI failed to stop at a red light. What penalty?
Failing to stop at a red light in Singapore is an offence under the Road Traffic Act and carries a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment up to 3 months, or both — plus 12 demerit points.
What the Law Says
The Road Traffic Act makes it illegal to drive through a red traffic light without stopping. This is treated as a serious traffic offence due to the risk it poses to road safety.
Under section 120 of the Road Traffic Act, any driver who fails to stop at a red light commits an offence. The law applies whether the light turns red while the vehicle is approaching or already in the intersection without lawful authority.
The penalty is not automatic — courts consider factors like intent, traffic conditions, and prior record — but the maximum punishment is clearly set by law.
In addition to court penalties, the Traffic Police will issue 12 demerit points under the Demerit Point System for this offence. Accumulating 24 or more demerit points within 2 years leads to a mandatory 12-month driving disqualification.
Statutory TextAny person who drives a motor vehicle on a road without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road shall be guilty of an offence.
— Road Traffic Act, s. 120 — Driving without reasonable consideration
What to Do
Plead guilty or prepare your defence if contesting the charge — you’ll receive a Notice to Attend Court or a Composition Offer.
If offered composition (a fine without court appearance), pay within the stated deadline (usually 14 days) to avoid prosecution.
Attend court if required; bring evidence (e.g., dashcam footage, witness statements) only if disputing the offence.
Check your demerit point balance via the Traffic Police e-Service portal to assess disqualification risk.
Complete the Defensive Driving Course (if eligible) to reduce demerit points by up to 6 — but only once every 2 years.
Sources
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.