​Khaw Boon Wan: Private Car Owners Must Continue Paying for COE and Road Tax

(Photo Credit: Yahoo News Singapore)

Bad news car owners. You’ll have to continue paying for your Certificate of Entitlement (COE) and road tax during this Circuit Breaker period, despite the fact that you’re probably driving less.

According to Mr Khaw, the reason for this is because private car owners are still able to use and drive their vehicles for “essential work or personal activities likes buying groceries”.

This topic was raised by Nominated MP Walter Theseira, who highlighted that his ministry had received requests to extend the validity of the COE for private cars, as well as the road tax and other relevant vehicle licences.

Associate Professor Theseira also suggested for relief to be provided to private car owners in order to help mitigate depreciation costs due to the impact of COVID-19.

However, Mr Khaw pointed out that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has already made adjustments to help private car owners during this Circuit Breaker period.

One such adjustment is the extension of the inspection deadline for private cars. Vocational drivers will also have a longer deadline to submit their medical reports when renewing their vocational licences.

Other measures include suspending ERP operations in May, and allowing vehicle owners to continue using their vehicle, provided they have valid insurance coverage and road tax.

Until the COVID-19 situation improves, we guess private car owners will have no choice but to bite the bullet.

What are your thoughts on this? Share them with us in the comments below.

For more information on the Circuit Breaker extension, check out FAQ for vehicle owners.

Read More: Car Owners Can Now Defer the Repayment of Motor Vehicle Loans

Download the new Motorist App now. Designed by drivers for drivers, this all-in-one app lets you receive the latest traffic updates, gives you access to live traffic cameras, and helps you manage LTA and vehicle matters.

Did you know we have a Motorist Telegram Channel? Created exclusively for drivers and car owners in Singapore, you can get instant info about our latest promotions, articles, tips & hacks, or simply chat with the Motorist Team and fellow drivers.