A surge in illegal road activity has prompted a sharp response, as Singapore authorities identified 245 cases of deregistered vehicles on the roads in 2025, a significant rise from 75 in 2024. These vehicles present a severe hazard because they are neither roadworthy nor covered by mandatory insurance, leaving other road users at risk.
Keeping or using these unregistered vehicles carries stiff consequences for owners. Since February, first-time offenders face maximum penalties of a S$20,000 fine, up to two years in jail, or both. Repeat offenders are subject to double these penalties, highlighting the government's push to clear these vehicles from circulation.
The recent operation follows a September enforcement blitz by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Singapore Police Force. The authorities emphasized that owners remain responsible for their vehicles even after handing them over to dealers. They advise that all administrative processes, such as confirming ownership transfers on the OneMotoring website or obtaining proper disposal documents, are vital to avoiding investigation.
Legislative action is now moving forward to close existing loopholes. A new bill introduced in Parliament on September 8 proposes an Authorised Exporter Scheme, which would mandate that all deregistered vehicles be handled only by LTA-authorized exporters. Additionally, the grace period for disposing of a vehicle will be slashed from one month to 14 days, and those who fail to meet these requirements may face daily fines of up to S$500 until disposal is verified. Authorities are also seeking the power to prevent vehicle transfers to individuals flagged as high-risk for failing to dispose of vehicles properly.