LAND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY (LTA)Required to operate

Class 2 Bus Service Licence

The Class 2 Bus Service Licence is required by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for any bus service in Singapore that charges fares and operates on pre-determined timetables and routes. The licence is valid for up to one year and is renewable, with processing typically taking 30 days if all relevant documents are submitted.

Validity
Up to one year (renewable)
Processing time
30 days to process application, assuming all relevant documents have been submitted
Issuing authority
LAND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY (LTA)

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Who needs the Class 2 Bus Service Licence

This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:

What's involved in getting the Class 2 Bus Service Licence

The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.

What this licence allows the business to do

The Class 2 Bus Service Licence enables a business to operate a bus service in Singapore that charges fares and follows a set timetable and designated routes. This is essential for any company looking to provide scheduled transportation services to the public.

What must be in place before the licence can be granted

Before the licence can be granted, several conditions must be met. A comprehensive route map must be prepared, clearly showing the proposed route and all stopping places. Additionally, pictures of the stopping places that are part of the premises or along the road must be provided. If any stopping places are located within private developments or along private roads, proof of approval from the management or owner is required. For certain bus types, documentation regarding the transfer of bus ownership may also be necessary. Furthermore, approval from the Gambling Regulatory Authority is needed if applicable.

How the agency reviews and decides

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) reviews the application by assessing the submitted documentation, including the route map and stopping place approvals. The agency may conduct inspections to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards before granting the licence.

Common reasons applications stall

Applications for the Class 2 Bus Service Licence can stall for various reasons. Common issues include incomplete documentation, such as missing route maps or approvals for stopping places. Additionally, discrepancies between the proposed stopping places and the approved use can lead to delays. Ensuring that all required documents are accurate and complete before submission can help mitigate these risks.

Required documents and prerequisites

Items the applicant typically needs ready before submitting:

  • Route Map
  • A map clearly showing the proposed route and all stopping places.
  • File format: pdf, jpeg, jpg, docx, doc, xls, xlsx
  • Maximum upload per application: 2MB
  • Stopping places (non-bus stop)
  • Pictures of the stopping place(s) which is/are part of the premises of the developments or along the road(s) i.e. not at a public bus stop.
  • File format: pdf, jpeg, jpg, docx, doc, xls, xlsx
  • Maximum upload per application: 2MB
  • Approval for use of private development/road
  • Proof of approval from the management/owner if you intend to set a stopping place within a private development/ along a private road.
  • File format: pdf, jpeg, jpg, docx, doc, xls, xlsx
  • Maximum upload per application: 2MB
  • Approval from Gambling Regulatory Authority
  • File format: pdf, jpeg, jpg, docx, doc, xls, xlsx
  • Maximum upload per application: 2MB
  • Transfer of Bus Ownership for Scheme B Bus Type
  • If you are applying Scheme B Bus Type, document on transfer of Bus Ownership is needed as a supporting document.
  • File format: pdf, jpeg, jpg, docx, doc, xls, xlsx
  • Maximum upload per application: 2MB

Class 2 Bus Service Licence FAQ

Do I need this licence to start operating?

Yes, the Class 2 Bus Service Licence is mandatory for any bus service in Singapore that charges fares and operates on scheduled routes. Without this licence, a business cannot legally operate a fare-charging bus service.

What can my business do once licensed?

Once licensed, your business can operate a bus service that charges fares and adheres to the approved timetable and routes. This allows you to provide scheduled transportation to passengers, contributing to the public transport network in Singapore.

What happens if I operate without it?

Operating a bus service without the Class 2 Bus Service Licence can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential legal action. It is crucial to obtain the necessary licence to avoid these risks and ensure compliance with local regulations.

What's the most common reason applications get rejected?

The most common reason for rejection is incomplete documentation. This includes missing route maps, approvals for stopping places, or failure to meet safety standards. Ensuring that all required documents are submitted accurately can help prevent rejection.

Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?

Yes, a foreign-owned company can hold the Class 2 Bus Service Licence in Singapore, provided it meets all the necessary requirements and conditions set by the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

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