Class 5 experience at SSDC

Hey guys. I just passed my Class 5 TP at SSDC earlier today. I would like to share me experience of my journey to obtain the licence.

Initially, i signed up for Class 5 lessons back in mid 2018. I paid a whooping $1000 for the enrolment, 4 practical lessons, vehicle rental for the test, the test itself and finally 1 theory lesson. 

The breakdown of the total course fee. 

For those who are wondering, you do not have to wait one year to enrol for class 5 after you have passed your class 4.

Coming to the practical lessons, most of driving is very similar to class 4. More specifically the turninig points etc. However, one major difference is the shifting of gears. For heavy vehicles like class 5, you would need to use a technique called double clutching. That involves changing the gear to neutral first, before down or up shifting.

Another major part in class 5 lessons is the checking of the "boom", or the protruding crane that extends over the front of the vehicle. The tester will pay extremely close attention to the checking.

Class 5 does not involve parallel parking. Only the V course, S course, crank course, slope, directional change and finally the vertical parking are involved.

I initially took my TP last year, 2018, and failed with 20 points. After 3 lessons, i took my TP today, 13/03/2019. I was only nervous about the crank course and slope.

After being called out by the tester and verifying my PDL, license and IC, i was led to the test vehicle. The tester started with the height checking with the pole. Once that was done, i was told to enter the vehicle for the start of the test.

From the starting point, i went to the slope first. After which, i did the V course, S course, vertical parking, crank course and ended with the directional change before heading out to the road.

I got the easy test route, which was to turn left after the exit, and making another left turn again. After going pass the junction, i made a u turn before heading back to the test centre.

Brief outline of my test route

After heading back to the starting point, i was led to the test room for my theory test. He tested me on the vehicle breakdown sign, expressway signs and tunnel. After which, he requested for me to hand over my license and IC. After roughly 5 minutes of waiting anxiously, he emerged from the room, with the test slip along with my 2 cards. He told to proceed to room 4 to watch the mandatory video.

I was filled with joy. My 5 year journey has ended, which started back in December 2014 at BBDC.

Some tips i can share. If possible, try to take your class 4 and 5 licenses consecutively. Unless you have a job that allows you to drive a class 4 vehicle, you might forget certain points taking your class 5 license after a long time. Some examples are the turning points. During your test, do pay close attention to your turning points, constant checking of blindspots and the rear during reversing, and also the checking of the "boom". And finally, do not get nervous during your test. Becoming nervous may cause you to make mistakes which can cost you demerit points.

I wish the best of luck to those who are taking their Class 5 license.

My result slip

 Do read my other experiences.

Class 2 tp

Class 2a tp

Class 2a lessons

Class 2b lessons

Class 2b tp

Class 4 

Class 3/3A lessons

I shared TP experience for both class 3A and 3 in the post below.

class 3

Class 3 TP Test at BBDC

I noticed that after posting about my BBDC experience, I did not post anything regarding my test. It has been almost 3 years since I last took my test. I took my class 3A test on 2015 and my class 3 on 2016.

Some of you might ask why didn't I take class 3 when I signed up. Well, it was my mistake. Having been through both class 3 and 3A tests, I will like to share with you guys my experience.

After arriving at BBDC at the time respective to my warm up time, I went over to the machine to print my slip. After which, I assembled at the small area towards the right of the counters. There is a small area with chairs and a television. After a while, an instructor came and took our ICs, PDL and slips. That was the last time I actually used a PDL slip. When I took my class 4 in 2018, everything was to be done on the SPF website.

Nevertheless, after a while, instructors came to us to bring us for our warm ups. Do take note that the warm up car is the same as your test car. After the warm-up, i was brought up to the TP room on level 2. After waiting nervously with the rest, we were summoned by the TP testers when they called out our names. After verifiyng my Identity, I was given back my IC and led to the test car. Moreover, the tester will mention the test route you would be taking. Try to roughly remember the various maps of the test routes that are placed on the board at level 2.

The TP test went with ease. My dad told me this tip, which I applied for both my class 3 and 3A TP. Which was to remain relaxed, and greet the tester when you get into the car. I did that for my class 3A TP, and the tester skipped the slope course !

However, during my class 3 TP, after coming down the slope, I had forgotten to stop at the stop line ! The instructor immediately reminded me that I had to stop at the line. Despite that, I still managed to pass. But, do note that the rules have changed now. If you get an immediate failure inside the circuit, the test would end immediately.

Once the courses in the circuit were completed, I drove outside to the road. Driving on the road was not a problem, given the timing was around 3, the last tp slot. Also, the traffic not being heavy.

After the test ended, I headed back to the TP room with the tester. A few minutes later, he came back with the result slip.

You would need to watch a mandatory safety video at the same waiting area at level 1. After which, you can proceed to have your photo taken to apply for your license.

Do check out my other experiences here :

Class 2 tp

Class 2a tp

Class 2a lessons

Class 2b lessons

Class 2b tp

Class 4 

Class 3/3A lessons


Class 5

Class 2 experience at BBDC

After a year had passed since I last took my Class 2A TP test, I decided to return to BBDC to sign up for my Class 2. Signing up on Dec 2017, I thought I could obtain my license within the same year. However, given that I last passed my 2A on 28 Dec 2016, my lessons stretched over to the following year, 2018.

Since I have already made a post on my class 2A experience, I have decided not to share much information here. The classes for both 2 and 2A are conducted simultaneously. The only difference is in the timing for various courses. In addition to this, Class 2 learners have to go through an addition course. That is to bring down, lift up and push a Honda Nighthawk CB750 in a figure of 8.  For those who have been to BBDC, you should have seen the big black bike in the small circuit.

Fast forward to my TP test in February. The usual introduction and briefing went by. After assembling outside together for the TP testers to verify our ICs, the class 2 learners had to stay behind. Our first test was to deal with the nighthawk. We lined up in a row. When my turn arrived, I handled the bike with great ease and caution.

After which. we had to assemble at the wooden bench in order of our tag number. I was number 12. I went through my test route with ease. When it came to assembling at the room at level 3 after the test, I was both excited and nervous, awaiting my results.

I was extremely shocked when the instructor mentioned my number. I was brought to the TP room at level 2. The tester told me that my crashbar came into contact with the cone when doing my pylon slalom. I was extremely frustrated.

Nevertheless, as per BBDC requirement, I booked 2 RV lessons and my next TP test, which was on March.

Everything went smoothly, until the S course. I had to stop at the end of the S course due to an incoming car. While moving off, I accidently placed my left leg down. Immediately, the tester sitting at the high chair told me off. I knew then that I would fail. My thoughts came true as my number, 12, was called out by the instructor again.

After booking 2 RV lessons and a TP test on April, I went through the test with great caution. And finally, I passed !

After 4 years of travelling back and forth to BBDC, April 13 2018 was the last time I saw myself going back there for lessons and tests.

Do check out my other experiences :


Class 2a tp

Class 2a lessons

Class 2b lessons

Class 2b tp

Class 4 

Class 3/3A lessons

Class 5

I shared my TP experience for both class 3A and 3 in the post below.

class 3

Owning your first 2B Motorcycle

So, you have just purchased your first ever 2B motorcycle. You can't wait to show off to your family and friends, and to go off riding. I would like to give a couple of advice when it comes to riding in Singapore.

RIDING GEAR

To be honest, i rarely see Singaporeans wear riding gear. One of the reasons i hear most of the time is because of the weather. True enough, Singapore's climate is hot majority of the time. But that should be an excuse not to care for your personal protection. You have to realize that no matter from what speed you fall off or skid from your bike, you are going to get injured. Your injuries also depend on what you are wearing. 

You can source for used riding jackets and gloves on sites like carousell. Your minimum protective gear should be jeans/long pants, covered shoes, gloves.

Road Rash on skin due to improper gear

It is also good to buy a good quality raincoat due to unpredictable weather in Singapore. It will be good for you to check the weather forecast  before starting your journey. If you are not a fan of top boxes, do carry along a backpack to store your gear.

Another thing to consider is your helmet. Honestly, i do not think that half face helmets protect your face fully from injuries, as compared to a full face helmet. Having been through an accident and falling head first into the concrete, i can't express how much wearing a full face helmet saved me from injuries. You decide yourself. 

CAMERA

 Placing riding gears aside. Another thing i would to emphasize is having cameras. It's all fun and games until you get into an accident. You can practice defensive riding and ride safely, but, due to the recklessness of another road user, you may get into an accident. As a rider and driver, i am seeing more Singaporean drivers drive with absolute recklessness. From PHV to BMW drivers. 

You can purchase an action camera, like Xiaomi Yi or the SJ series. If you have a higher budget, you can purchase a GoPro camera. Get it mounted onto your helmet. Alternatively, you can purchase a front and back cameras to be installed on your motorcycle. Hassle-free, these would start recording when you start your engine. 

SJ4000 camera

C60 camera. Can be purchased and installed at Unique motorsports

SECURITY

 Another point i would like to make is regarding the security of your bike. Bikes do get stolen in Singapore, only that they rarely happen. And moreover, they do not get reported much. Do invest in a good motorcycle cover. This not only protects your bike when parked under the sun, it deters thieves from noticing your bike. It will be good to invest in a disc brake lock.

OTHERS

My last few points will be about general matters. Do purchase a concessionary season parking. This will allow you to enter HDB carparks all around Singapore for free. Do carry an extra cash card with you in case you round out of money on your current one. Try to park at proper places. I have, many times in the past, parked at improper places, such at the void deck. It is possible to do that, but it is only a matter of time before you are caught and fined. 

Do read up about bike maintenance in general. In Singapore, it is very easy to be cheated by a bike shop if you don't know your stuff. If possible, learn some basic maintenance on your bike.  

Lastly, when it comes to general riding itself, do ride safely. Please do not ride recklessly. With the increasing number of camera around Singapore, it is easy to be caught. All it takes is for you to speed or do something stupid, for your license to be revoked. You have worked hard and spent much to earn your license. Do not lose it. 

With that, do enjoy riding your new motorcycle. Thanks

Buying your first 2B Motorcycle in Singapore

Hello fellow riders and P-platers. Today i will be sharing you with my experience and also some advice about buying your first 2B motorcycle.

You have just passed your Traffic Police test and can't wait to buy your first motorcycle. I was in the same situation like many of you guys. Something that you could try is to rent a motorcycle. As compared to 2015, there have been a number of companies and private businesses that provide motorcycle rental services. You can find them by doing a search on Google or Carousell. Personally, i rented a motorcycle from Starkholdings at Ubi. It turned out to be an unpleasant experience. 

My friend when he rented from Vroomleasing at Boon Lay

It would be good to get some experience in riding on the roads alone and learning the different routes.

When i rented a motorcycle, i had to plan my route beforehand via google maps. 

When it comes to buying your first motorcycle, i would say that you have to take many factors into consideration. 

FIRST

Your budget. You need to set aside a couple of thousand dollars whether you choose to buy via a dealer or a private seller. 

I can't say much about buying from a dealer as i did not buy my motorcycles from them. But if you go via a dealer, you could either pay them full cash or place a down-payment, from which, you would need to Carry On Installment (COI) for a specific number of months. If you go through a dealer, they would settle your insurance for you. Moreover, they might offer you deals like free servicing for a few months etc. 

SECOND

Another factor you would have to consider when going through a dealer and down-paying, is whether you are able to afford to pay monthly. When it comes to any vehicle, breakdown is the most common issue. If you are unlucky to experience a motorcycle breakdown, you have to consider the maintenance fees and the monthly payment as well.

Alternatively, you could browse through sites like Carousell and sgbikemart to search for your preferred motorcycle. One factor that shadows going through a dealer, is that you are able to negotiate with the seller when you are buying the motorcycle. Usually, the seller would price his motorcycle based on the following,

Machine Price + Remaining amount of COE + maintenance fees spent on the bike.

On a side note, a common issue used motorcycles face, whether you are buying through a dealer or privately, is breakdown. Just because you buy it from a shop, it will not guarantee that the motorcycle is a good condition. 

When you are going to view a motorcycle, it is best to bring along a experienced rider. 

THIRD

The third factor you will have to consider is the type of motorcycle you want to buy. In Singapore, we could categorize motorcycles like this :

Classic Bikes

Cruiser

Cubs

Scooters

Scrambler/Dirt Bike

Sport Bikes

Sport Tourers

Street Bikes

Super Motards

Three Wheelers

You will want to find a bike that is comfortable for you. If you are not comfortable with the riding position, i will not recommend buying the motorcycle. Secondly, you might want to consider if you will be having a pillion most of the time, like your family member etc. If so, you will want to get a bike that is both comfortable for you and your pillion, like a scooter for example. 

A extremely comfortable Suzuki Burgman 200

Along with choosing the type of motorcycle that you want. You also have to take the brand of the motorcycle into consideration. It is best to got for the Japanese brands as they are know for their built and reliability, as compared to other Chinese and Korean brands. 

The only other good brand i can think of is Bajaj. Besides that, your European brands like KTM and Aprilia, are considered quite expensive. But also, it depends on your budget. 

FOURTH

When you are viewing a motorcycle, another factor you will have to consider is the availability of the parts, especially if the brands are not well known. Such as Daelim, Megelli, Derbi, Reiju etc. It will be extremely,troublesome for your bike to breakdown, and you having to source for the spare parts yourself via online. 

Personally, i would recommend going for the Japanese brands as most of the spare parts for their bikes are widely available. 

FIFTH

The fifth factor is whether you will be taking your Class 2A license a year later. This factor also plays a role in buying your 2B bike. Personally, if you have the time and money, i would recommend going for the classes and obtaining your Class 2A and 2 licenses. A friend of mine kept reminding me not to spend too much money on my 2B bike. He kept telling me the reason would be my Class 2A lessons when i attend them. Truly enough, after attending my Class 2A lessons at BBDC, i felt the urge to get a more powerful bike. 

If you do intend to obtain your Class 2A license a year later and possibly switching to a Class 2A bike, i would recommend sourcing for a bike that is cheap and easy to maintain. In this way, you will not make a huge loss when selling off your bike. 

Nevertheless, you can still take your Class 2A license and ride your 2B bike. In addition to this, i know of some friends who bought a Class 2A bike after a year of waiting. In this way, you are able to save up enough money to get a good powerful bike. 

In my opinion, i feel that new riders should spend less on their first 2B bike, save up their money, and spend it on a good Class 2A or 2 bike. Reason being, i feel that the more powerful bikes start from around  300cc. You should not be hungry for power and speed when sourcing for a 2B bike. 

My opinion comes after years of spending huge amounts of money on maintenance due to bike breakdowns. Reason being, i rushed to get a motorcycle. I could not control my excitement to own a motorcycle. Please new riders, do not be lured by the cheap price of a bike and be too excited. Be patient and do your research wisely before purchasing a motorcycle. 

This is all i would love to share with the new riders. In my next post, i will be writing about owning and maintaining your motorcycle.

How to get your Private Hire Car Driver's Vocational Licence (PDVL)

Today i will be sharing with you guys my journey in obtaining my PDVL. I am sure there are other ways to obtain them. I took my route via Grab.

Sometime in January 2018, i went down to Grab office at Sin Ming. It is a 10 minute walk from the LTA office at Sin Ming.

Grab office located at Sin Ming

After which, i was given a few registration forms to fill up and had to settle some paper work with the admin staff there. In order to register, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a valid class 3/3A driving license for 2 years. One of the forms that you are required to fill up can be downloaded from the LTA website itself. 

After the paperwork, i was given another form. With this form, i was told to go to any Grab appointed healthcare providers for my medical checkup. I headed to SATA medical centre at Jurong East. This medical checkup is sponsored by Grab.

With the checkup completed, the medical report will be sent to Grab directly. A few weeks later, i received a message from Grab stating the date of my PDVL course that was held at the Singapore Taxi Academy.

Singapore Taxi Academy located at The Herencia, Singapore 239351

Course schedule that i received on the day itself

Upon commence of the course, everyone received a small box containing a map of Singapore, a book and other course related notes.

The test date, was already pre booked for us. However, the instructor asked if anyone wished to change their test date.

The test will be conducted in a room and be done on ipads. Once you have completed the first paper, you can see your results and leave the room. You would have about an hour before the next paper starts.

The key part of the PDVL test is memorising the demerit point system for both the traffic offences and vocational license offences.

Mock test paper

I failed my first attempt at both papers. However after a couple of months of delay, i rebooked the tests and passed them. The test itself is also sponsored by Grab. However, if you fail, you have to re book the test for each paper (depending on which paper you fail) , at a fee of $10 each.

Upon completion of your test, you would be given your result slip. After which, you would have to settle some paper work with the admin and will be given your temporary PDVL while awaiting your actual license card.

With your temporary license, you are able to start working as a private chauffeured driver.

I took this route via Grab. I am not sure if there are other companies that would sponsor you. You could obtain the PDVL license application form from LTA. However, you will have to pay for your own medical checkup and PDVL course. If I am not mistaken, you can book your PDVL course via Skillsfuture as well.

One of the main documents needed to sign up is the application form form LTA and your completed medical report. You may need to submit your education certificates as well.

Many would also have questions with regards to what will be tested for the test. Just a couple of days ago, i was reading a blog written by a fellow PDVL holder who went through the test. I will copy and paste the info from his blog as it is still accurate.

Paper 1
Paper 1 test is on Service Quality, Health and Safety. The things you need to read is the photocopied notes given by the instruction:

a) Section 1.1 - Service Quality, Health and Safety.
b) Driving in Singapore from Mighty Minds (Yes the thick book!)

1) What are the 5 key factors of Quality Chauffeured Car Services?
2) Where to display the fares?
3) What is surge pricing?
4) What is the driver's age to drive PHV?
5) What is domestic terrorism?
6) Who are licensed professional chauffeurs?
7) Why does terrorism, racial and religious incident affect you?
8) What is a good driver?
9) Where to stand when assisting a disabled person?
10) What is the healthy level range for BMI?

Paper 2
a) Section 2.1 - Rules and Regulations (PSV)
b) Section 2.3 - Rules and Regulations (PHC)
c) Section 2.4 - Rules and Regulations (Chauffeured Private Hire Car and Taxi Vocational Licence Demerit Points System)

A lot of questions will come from c) Section 2.4 - Rules and Regulations (Chauffeured Private Hire Car and Taxi Vocational Licence Demerit Points System). The test will ask you questions regarding the penalties of the offenses
Easy ones for like this:
What is the penalties for soliciting for passengers?
1) Fine
2) Demerit Points
3) Fine + Demerit Points
4) Fine + Demerit Points + Suspension

Tough ones are like this :

What is the penalties for soliciting for passengers?
1) Fine $200
2) Fine $500 + 5 Demerit Points
3) Fine $200 + 5 Demerit Points
4) Fine $500 + 12 Demerit Points

I can tell you that there is no shortcuts for Paper 2. You really have to memorize hard and the questions are tricky as well so read properly before you answer. For example:

Tricky ones:

Which of the following is false when you need written permission of the Registrar to install equipment for your private hire car?

1) Smart Phone

2) Radio

3) Television

4) Acoustic equipment

Overall, it would take you about 3 months to obtain your license. With that being said, i wish you the best of luck in obtaining your PDVL. 

Returning back to Unity Secondary School

It has been almost 5 years since i last stepped foot in Unity Secondary School. I was there as a student for a final time to collect my O level results back in 2014.

Me and my friends in 2012

Me and my mathematics teacher in 2012

I was called back by my teachers to share my experience in National Service with the current Secondary 3 batch of Unitians. Initially, i was delighted and surprised when i heard about it, given the fact that i just ended my service in January of 2018. Nevertheless, i was extremely happy to share my experience with them.

Upon arrival to the school, i bumped into many of my teachers. It was pleasant to meet them after many years. Me and a few other alumni were then brought to the hall where we received a small token of appreciation from the new Vice Principal.

After which, me and another alumni were led into the AVA room where we shared our experience along with slides. Initially, i was nervous as i had not done any public presentation in front of large groups before. Progressively, i overcame my nervousness.

Once the presentation ended, i had a talk with my former teachers and even the vice principal. From which, i decided to walk around the school, reminiscing the old days.

The staff room area where my friend and i used to study after class

With the other speakers along with my former geography, physics and home economics teachers