If you’re considering becoming a professional driver in Singapore, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to obtain a Taxi Driver’s Vocational Licence (TDVL) or a Private Hire Car Driver’s Vocational Licence (PDVL). While both licences allow you to earn an income by transporting passengers, they come with different requirements, opportunities, and benefits.
Understanding the differences between the two can help you choose the option that best fits your driving goals, lifestyle, and earning expectations. In this guide, we’ll explore the advantages of each licence, and explain how STRIDES Premier can support you on your journey as a driver.
What is a TDVL?
The Taxi Driver’s Vocational Licence (TDVL) is a licence issued by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) which allows an individual to drive a taxi in Singapore. Holding a TDVL ensures that drivers are professionally trained to navigate Singapore’s roads, provide safe transportation, and deliver quality service to passengers.
What is a PDVL?
The Private Hire Car Driver’s Vocational Licence (PDVL) is a licence issued by the LTA which allows an individual to drive a private hire vehicle (PHV) in Singapore. A valid PDVL is required before you can rent a PHV or be onboarded onto ride-hailing platforms such as Grab or Gojek. This licence ensures that drivers meet the necessary training and regulatory requirements to drive professionally and safely.
What is the difference between a TDVL and a PDVL?
Difference between TDVL and PDVL
| Taxi Driver’s Vocational Licence (TDVL) | Private Hire Car Driver’s Vocational Licence (PDVL) | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration |
|
S$280 |
| Vehicle Options | Required to rent a taxi from a licensed taxi operator | Can rent a PHV or convert a personal car for PHV use |
| Driving Scope | Licensed to drive both taxis and PHV | Licensed to drive only PHV |
| Job Opportunities |
|
|
What are the benefits of a TDVL?
Many vocational licence holders choose to obtain a TDVL because it provides access to a broader range of earning opportunities. Unlike PHV drivers, TDVL holders can serve street-hail passengers, queue at designated taxi stands, accept internal and corporate bookings, and provide cross-border taxi services.
In addition, STRIDES Premier driver-partners will receive at least 13 taxi jobs daily through the Grab platform if they stay online for a minimum of 7 hours. Having multiple booking channels can also help you access more jobs and maximise your earning potential.
What are the benefits of a PDVL?
Many drivers prefer getting a PDVL because it offers greater flexibility and allows them to use their personal vehicle for both work and personal purposes.
Unlike taxis, PHVs are not required to display taxi branding or livery. Drivers can convert their personal vehicle into a PHV, provided it meets the necessary inspection and insurance requirements. This eliminates the need to rent a vehicle from a taxi operator and gives drivers greater control over how they use their vehicle.
What services does STRIDES Premier offer?
At STRIDES Premier, we offer a range of rental solutions designed to suit different driving needs and lifestyles. Whether you are looking for a short-term rental or a long-term commitment, we have a plan to match your requirements.
Whether you choose to drive a taxi or a PHV, you can enjoy attractive sign-on bonuses, exclusive fuel and EV charging discounts, and comprehensive automotive support services. To explore our available fleet and latest offerings, visit our vehicle fleet.
How much does it cost to rent a taxi or PHV in STRIDES Premier?
At STRIDES Premier, our taxi rentals start from as low as $67 per day for an MG5 taxi under a no-frills two-year contract for new hirers. For PHVs, a brand-new Kia Niro Plus can start from $96 per day under a two-year rental contract.
STRIDES Premier also runs regular promotions and special offers. Find out more about our latest rental packages here.
What kind of support does STRIDES Premier offer its driver-partners?
At STRIDES Premier, our support goes beyond vehicle rentals. Our all-inclusive rental rates cover essential needs such as maintenance, insurance, and replacement vehicles.
Additionally, we celebrate outstanding driver-partners through our annual Top Driver-Partner Award, which honours those who have demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and service excellence. To help ease the cost of education, we also organise the STRIDES Premier Bursary Award annually which provides financial assistance to support the children of our driver-partners.
Interested in being a STRIDES Premier driver-partner?
Simply complete the interest form below and our team will get in touch within three working days to recommend a vehicle and rental plan that best suits your needs.
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*STRIDES Premier reserves the sole discretion to make any price adjustment without prior notice. While we strive to keep our pricing and content as accurate and up-to-date as possible, adjustments may still occur.