Singapore bus operators offer S$20,000 sign-on bonus to attract local drivers

Public transport operators in Singapore are offering sign-on bonuses of up to S$20,000 to recruit more local bus drivers. The move comes as operators compete to attract Singaporeans and permanent residents into the profession.

Key Recruitment Details

Item	Details
Sign-On Bonus	Up to S$20,000
Starting Monthly Salary	About S$3,600 (including overtime)
Potential Monthly Earnings	Up to S$4,500
Minimum Age	21 years old
Licence Requirement	Class 3 or 3A with at least 1 year driving experience
Bonus Payment Structure	Paid in tranches over several years

Nearly 500 Local Drivers Recruited

Since October 2024, SBS Transit has hired nearly 500 Singaporeans and PRs after increasing its sign-on bonus to S$20,000.

The incentive is not paid in one lump sum. Instead, it is distributed gradually:

• Initial payouts begin after training completion
• Payments continue every six months for the first two years
• Remaining bonuses are paid annually over the next three years

This structure encourages drivers to remain in the job for a longer period.

Why Some Singaporeans Are Joining

Some mid-career workers are moving into bus driving for stability and predictable schedules.

For example, a 37-year-old driver who joined SBS Transit in April 2025 said the role allows him to finish work around 7pm on certain days, giving him time to have dinner with his family.

He also views the profession as sustainable because it can be continued well into later years.

Operators Offering the S$20,000 Bonus

Multiple public transport companies have introduced similar incentives to compete for local talent.

Operator	Sign-On Bonus
SBS Transit	Up to S$20,000
SMRT Buses	Up to S$20,000
Go-Ahead Singapore	Up to S$20,000
Tower Transit Singapore	Around S$7,200

Tower Transit Singapore offers a lower bonus but focuses on long-term retention and career progression.

Shortage of Local Bus Drivers

During a parliamentary debate in March 2026, Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow acknowledged that there are not enough Singaporeans applying to become bus drivers.

As of 2024, Singapore had about 9,700 bus drivers:

Driver Group	Share
Singapore Citizens	28%
Permanent Residents	15%
Foreign Work Pass Holders	57%

Authorities are currently discussing whether starting salaries should be raised further to attract more local applicants.

Why This Matters

Singapore’s bus network relies heavily on foreign workers. Increasing the number of local drivers improves workforce stability and resilience.

Higher salaries and sign-on bonuses also make the job more competitive compared with other mid-career roles that require similar licences or experience.

For Singaporeans considering a career change, the S$20,000 incentive plus stable income could make bus driving a practical option.

Who Can Apply

Applicants typically need to meet these requirements:

• Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident
• At least 21 years old
• Valid Class 3 or 3A driving licence
• Minimum one year of driving experience
• Medically fit for operational duties

Training will be provided by the bus operator before deployment.

[Link to Official Source – Apply Here]

FAQs

Is the S$20,000 bonus paid immediately?

No. The bonus is usually paid in instalments over several years, starting after training completion.

What is the starting salary for bus drivers in Singapore?

Most operators offer about S$3,600 per month including overtime, with total earnings potentially reaching S$4,500.

Do I need prior bus driving experience?

No. However, applicants must have at least one year of driving experience and hold a Class 3 or 3A licence.

Why are operators offering such large bonuses?

The bonuses are meant to encourage more Singaporeans and PRs to join the profession, as many drivers are currently foreign workers.