In a push to level the playing field between taxis and private hire cars, a new requirement has just been implemented that will affect Grab and Uber drivers.

Private hire car drivers will be required to apply for the Private Hire Car Drivers' Vocational Licence (PDVL) from Monday, March 13.

All applicants will be required to undergo a medical examination, and will be subject to background checks.

A non-refundable $40 application fee will be charged as well, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced on March 9.

Private hire car drivers with a valid taxi driver licence will not need to apply for the new license.

The PDVL course consist of two hours of self-study and eight hours of classroom coaching.

It will equip applicants with knowledge on private hire car rules and regulations, service quality and safety.

Applicants will have up to one year to attend and pass the PDVL course, during which they will still be allowed to provide private hire car services.

For those who apply for a PDVL after the June 30 deadline, they will have to obtain the PDVL before they can provide the service.

Those applying for the PDVL must hold a Class 3/3A driving licence for a continuous period of at least two years.

Singapore citizens can apply for a PDVL as a self-employed driver, while non-citizens, including permanent residents, must be employees of a company providing chauffeured services to be eligible for the PDVL.

The Singapore Taxi Academy will be conducting the 10-hour PDVL course.

Once the application has been processed, applicants will be informed by LTA to register for it.

The application form can be downloaded on LTA’s website and must be submitted to LTA by June 30.

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