In an effort to attract more local bus drivers, Singapore’s public transportation providers are offering sign-on bonuses of up to S$20,000. Operators are competing to draw Singaporeans and permanent residents into the industry, which is why the move was made.
Details of the item
| Details of the item | |
|---|---|
| Sign-On Bonus | Up to S$20,000 |
| Beginning Monthly Pay | Approximately S$3,600 (including overtime) |
| Possible Monthly Income | Up to S$4,500 |
| Minimum Age | 21 years old |
| License Requirement | Class 3 or 3A with a minimum of one year of driving experience |
| Structure of Bonus Payments | paid over a number of years in installments |
Recruitment of Nearly 500 Local Drivers
After raising its sign-on bonus to S$20,000, SBS Transit has hired almost 500 Singaporeans and PRs since October 2024.
The incentive is not given out all at once. Rather, it is dispersed gradually payouts start as soon as the training is finished.
- For the first two years, payments are made every six months.
- Over the following three years, the remaining bonuses will be paid each year.
Drivers are encouraged to stay on the job longer thanks to this structure drivers are encouraged.
Reasons for Some Singaporeans’ Enrollment
In search of stability and regular schedules, some mid-career workers are switching to bus driving.
For instance, a 37-year-old driver who started working for SBS Transit in April 2025 stated that his job allows him to finish work at around 7 p.m. on some days, allowing him to have dinner with his family.
Retirement Savings Plan with Matching
CPF Top-Ups 2026 Singapore Matches Up to S$600 Additionally he believes that the profession is sustainable since it can be pursued well into old age.
The S$20,000 Bonus is being offered by operators.
Similar incentives have been implemented by several public transportation providers in an effort to attract local talent.
| Operator | Sign-On Bonus |
|---|---|
| SBS Transit | Up to S$20,000 |
| SMRT Buses | Up to S$20,000 |
| Go-Ahead Singapore | Up to S$20,000 |
| Tower Transit Singapore | About S$7,200 |
Tower Transit Singapore prioritizes long-term retention and career advancement while offering a smaller bonus.
Lack of Local Bus Drivers
Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow admitted that not enough Singaporeans are applying to be bus drivers during a parliamentary debate in March 2026.
There were roughly 9,700 bus drivers in Singapore as of 2024.
| Driver Group | Share |
|---|---|
| Singaporeans | 28% |
| Permanent Residents | 15% |
| Holders of Foreign Work Passes | 57% |
In order to draw in more local candidates, authorities are currently debating whether starting salaries should be increased even further.
Singapore Driving Test Fees Increase
View the most recent theoretical and practical test prices as well as the impending increases through 2028.
Why This Is Important
The bus system in Singapore is largely dependent on foreign labor. Increasing the number of local drivers enhances the resilience and stability of the workforce.
In comparison to other mid-career positions requiring comparable licenses or experience, the position is more competitive due to higher salaries and sign-on bonuses.
The S$20,000 incentive and steady income could make bus driving a viable option for Singaporeans thinking about changing careers.
Who May Apply?
Usually, candidates must fulfill these prerequisites.
- Citizen or Permanent Resident of Singapore
- 21 years of age or older
- A current Class 3 or 3A driver’s license
- Driving experience of at least a year
- Medically capable of performing operational tasks
Before deployment, the bus operator will offer training.
Changes to Singapore Work Permits
Work Permit 2026 updates include increased age restrictions, new quota regulations for employers, and an increase in LQS to S$1,800.
FAQ:
Does the S$20,000 bonus get paid out right away?
No. After training is finished, the bonus is typically paid out over a number of years in installments.
What is the starting pay in Singapore for bus drivers?
The majority of operators pay roughly S$3,600 per month, including overtime, with a potential total salary of S$4,500.
Do I need to have driven a bus before?
No, but candidates must possess a Class 3 or 3A license and have at least a year of driving experience.
