Car Rental

It's not advisable to rent a car in Singapore. There's really no reason to rent a car in here, unless you'd like to drive into Malaysia. Driving can be a harrowing experience thanks to road congestion, particularly during rush hour and on weekends and holidays. Highway names, tariffs, and all licensing schemes are abbreviated, causing great confusion. Thankfully, the island is relatively small and its public transportation system is excellent. Taxis are safe, clean, cheap, and can cater to travelers with specific needs and large groups. Renting a car will cost up to S$800 per day, plus insurance and payment for compulsory safety seats if you're traveling with children. Additionally, you'll need to pay for fuel, parking, and a stored value CashCard (from a convenience store or post office), from which tolls are automatically deducted.

Local Agencies

Avis National. Changi Airport, Terminal 2, Arrival Hall, Singapore. 6542-8855. www.avis.com. #07-01 Grand Copthorne Waterfront Plaza Hotel, 392 Havelock Rd., Havelock. 6737-1668.

CityLimo. #01-41 Specialists' Shopping Centre, 277 Orchard Rd., Orchard. 6737-8282. www.citylimo.com.sg.

Hertz. Changi Airport, Terminals 1 & 2, Arrival Hall, Singapore. 6542-5300. www.hertz.com.

Sans Tours. 100 Kim Seng Plaza, River Valley. 6734-9922. www.asiatours.com.sg.

Requirements & Restrictions

Although Singaporeans can get their licenses at 18, most agencies only rent cars to drivers who are at least 21. Some companies even charge an extra fee (up to S$30 daily) for drivers under 25. On paper, many profess an upper age limit of 60, but healthy seniors are rarely prevented from renting. Most companies will accept a valid home country license as long as it's in English. Children under 8 are required to have child safety seats, so inform the rental company upon booking and they'll provide you with them for less than S$10 per week. Bring your own devices for infants under six months.

Surcharges

Rental cars are hired for use within Singapore only. An additional surcharge of between S$25 and S$40 will be levied for driving your rental into Malaysia. You can get your car delivered to your hotel or another location for a fee, usually S$20. Most companies have offices at Changi Airport and downtown; there's no fee for dropping your car at either of these locations. To avoid a hefty refueling fee, fill the tank just before you turn in the car, but be aware that gas stations near the rental outlet may overcharge.