Omni-Bus Driver's Vocational Licence (ODVL)
The Omni-Bus Driver's Vocational Licence (ODVL) is required by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for omnibus drivers employed by public transport operators in Singapore, such as SBS Transit Ltd and SMRT Buses Ltd. The validity period is agency-confirmed, with processing typically taking 10 to 15 working days, assuming all relevant documents are submitted.
- Processing time
- 10 to 15 working days to process application, assuming all relevant documents have been submitted
- Issuing authority
- LAND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY (LTA)
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Who needs the Omni-Bus Driver's Vocational Licence (ODVL)
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
What's involved in getting the Omni-Bus Driver's Vocational Licence (ODVL)
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 Omni-Bus Driver's Vocational Licence (ODVL) enables drivers to operate omnibuses for public transport operators in Singapore. This licence is essential for ensuring that drivers meet the necessary standards and regulations for public safety and service quality.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the ODVL can be issued, drivers must be employed by a public transport operator such as SBS Transit Ltd, SMRT Buses Ltd, Tower Transit Singapore, or Go-Ahead Singapore. Additionally, drivers must complete a vocational licence test, which assesses their knowledge and skills relevant to operating omnibuses safely and efficiently.
How the agency reviews and decides
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) reviews the application for the ODVL after the vocational licence test has been completed. Upon successful completion of the test, a Digital LTA Vocational Licence (Digital LTA VL) is issued through the Singpass app, streamlining the process and eliminating the need for a physical card unless specifically requested.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the ODVL may experience delays if the vocational licence test is not passed or if the driver is not employed by an approved public transport operator. Additionally, incomplete documentation or failure to meet the agency's requirements can also lead to processing delays. Ensuring that all prerequisites are met before applying can help mitigate these issues.
Omni-Bus Driver's Vocational Licence (ODVL) FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating as an omnibus driver?
Yes, the Omni-Bus Driver's Vocational Licence (ODVL) is mandatory for all omnibus drivers employed by public transport operators in Singapore. Without this licence, drivers cannot legally operate omnibuses for public transport services.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once licensed with the ODVL, drivers can operate omnibuses for public transport operators, ensuring compliance with Singapore's transport regulations. This licence signifies that the driver has met the necessary training and safety standards required for public transport.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating as an omnibus driver without the Omni-Bus Driver's Vocational Licence (ODVL) is illegal and can result in penalties, including fines and potential legal action. It is crucial for drivers to obtain this licence to ensure compliance with local regulations.
How does this fit relative to incorporating my company?
The ODVL is specifically for individual drivers employed by public transport operators and does not directly relate to the incorporation of a company. However, if a business intends to operate a transport service, ensuring that all drivers hold the necessary licences, including the ODVL, is essential for legal compliance.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for rejection of ODVL applications is failing to pass the vocational licence test. Additionally, if the applicant is not employed by an approved public transport operator, the application cannot be processed.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
The ODVL is issued to individual drivers rather than companies. Therefore, while a foreign-owned company can employ drivers, those drivers must still meet the requirements for obtaining the ODVL, including being employed by an approved public transport operator.
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Other LTA licences
Bus Attendant's Vocational Licence (BAVL)
The Bus Attendant's Vocational Licence (BAVL) is issued by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for individuals working as bus attendants on school buses in Singapore. The licence is valid for three years, with processing typically completed in 15 working days, provided all relevant documents are submitted.
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.
Permit for Vehicle Movement
The Permit for Vehicle Movement is required by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for the operation of vehicles that exceed width, length, or weight limits on public roads in Singapore. The validity is confirmed by the agency, and processing times can be found on the LTA's website.