Review of Regulatory Framework for On-Road Cyclists and Efforts to Enhance Road User Awareness

Written Reply to Parliamentary Question

Mr Alex Yeo asked the Minister for Transport in view of the increasing number of accidents involving cyclists

a.            whether the Ministry will consider (i) licensing on-road pedal cyclists and (ii) introducing a similar mandatory theory test currently required of power-assisted bicycle riders for such cyclists; and

b.            whether the Ministry has plans to enhance public education efforts to raise awareness and clarity of the rules and regulations for different road users.

 Reply by Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow:

1.            During the Active Mobility Advisory Panel’s review of on-road safety in 2021, the panel considered the licensing of on-road cyclists of non-motorised devices, but did not recommend it. Based on their review of practices in overseas jurisdictions, there was little evidence that such measures would improve road safety and deter errant cyclists.

2.            Such measures could impose regulatory and compliance burdens on a large and diverse group of cyclists, including casual users, children and elderly, which may not be proportionate to the expected safety outcomes.

3.            Nevertheless, the Government will continue to review the need to introduce mandatory licensing, a theory test or mandatory knowledge of the Highway Code for on-road cyclists of non-motorised devices.

4.            Road safety is a shared responsibility among all road users. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Traffic Police (TP) will continue to conduct public education campaigns and step up the promotion of safe cycling practices.