Remember the great hoo-ha caused when the gahmen banned personal mobility devices (PMDs) from the streets and roads?
Delivery riders were understandably upset, but so were youths who enjoyed blasting loud music from their speakers and crashing into strangers.
As a result, some of them have started riding power-assisted bicycles (PABs), otherwise known as electric bicyles (e-bikes), which is allowed on cycling paths and roads.
Problem solved, right? Well, now that PAB riders will now have to take a theory test before riding on the roads, it might not be.
If you’re a food delivery rider who’s worried that the cost of this test could affect your earnings, here’s some good news: it costs as much as a typical coffee shop chicken biryani.
New Theory Test for E-Biker Riders to Cost $5 For First 2 Attempts
That’s right, the new theory test for PAB riders will cost just S$5 for two attempts in the first three months!
This means that those who fail the test on their first try may take the test again “for free” the second time.
After three months, the test will cost S$10 for each attempt.
These discounted prices were announced by Senior Minister of State for Transport Dr Amy Khor in Parliament yesterday (11 May).
For those who don’t know, the new test will be introduced as part of proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Act, which would make it an offence for PAB riders who have not passed the theory test to ride on roads.
PAB riders also have to pass a theory test before riding on public paths, after a Bill was passed in Parliament in February this year.
Now, all PAB riders must pass a single theory test for both path and road usage.
Theory Handbook Will Soon Be Available in Other Languages
A number of Members of Parliament (MPs) brought up the fact that older Singaporeans may be more conversant in other languages, and questioned whether there would be additional options for those who are illiterate or not tech-savvy.
In response, Dr Khor said that the Chinese, Malay, and Tamil translations of the handbook for e-scooters and PAB riders would soon be available. The test is only available in English at the moment.
The test will also be made accessible to those with difficulties taking an online test, she said. Special provisions for them can be made on a case-by-case basis.
The tests are due to start on 30 June. The minimum age for PAB and e-scooter riders is 16 years old.
E-scooter riders under 16 can ride as long as they’re under the supervision of an adult who has passed the test.
Feature Image: moreimages / Shutterstock.com
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