How to Get Car Insurance in Singapore

Buying car insurance in Singapore is essential to protect yourself financially and legally. Finding the right policy ensures you have adequate coverage without overpaying.

How do you get car insurance? Getting car insurance in Singapore can range from a simple, time-consuming phone call to an agent to a quick, efficient process of tapping a few links on your phone. Whichever method you choose, you can boil down the process of shopping for car insurance to these five essential steps:

1. Getting key information ready

2. Understanding and deciding your coverage needs

3. Researching to find the right plan

4. Comparing providers

5. Buying your policy

Below, we'll go into more detail about these steps and guide you through each step to ensure you find the right plan for your needs and ensure you can drive with confidence.

There's key information and documents you need to have ready before you apply. Having everything on hand makes the process easier. Here is what you need:

• Personal information: NRIC for Singaporeans or work pass for foreigners.

• Vehicle information: Vehicle make, model, age, and registration details.

• Information about driving history: Provide details like past claims, No-Claim Discount (NCD), and accident history.

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Understanding your coverage plan is crucial. It defines the extent of protection you receive in various scenarios, ensuring you meet the minimum car insurance requirements in Singapore and are adequately protected against potential risks. Knowing your needs helps you choose the right policy that balances cost and coverage.

Here are some of the types of coverage that insurers provide in Singapore:

Not sure which coverage is right for you? Read on to find out how to assess your needs and select the appropriate car insurance plan.

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Wondering how to shop for car insurance online? This is often the most difficult part, as there are a few ways, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to know that you are getting the best car insurance quotes for your specific needs.

Using online comparison tools

Many online tools help you compare car insurance quotes, such as SingSaver. You can find these tools by searching online for "car insurance comparison Singapore" or visiting financial comparison websites.

The benefits of online comparison sites:

• Convenience: Quick access to multiple quotes from various insurers, saving time and effort.

• Time-saving: Streamlines the process of comparing policies, allowing for efficient decision-making.

• Transparency: Provides an overview of available options and prices, enabling informed choices.

The potential drawbacks of online comparison tools:

• Limited customisation: Sites may not cover all niche coverage options or specific rider requirements.

>> MORE: Compare and find the best car insurance quotes of 2025 online in Singapore

Using insurance brokers

Insurance brokers are professionals who help you find suitable car insurance policies by comparing multiple insurers on your behalf. Many local drivers choose them for personalised advice and expert guidance. You can find them in Singapore through online directories, referrals, or by searching for "car insurance brokers Singapore".

The advantages of buying car insurance from brokers:

• Personalised advice: Tailored recommendations based on individual needs and circumstances.

• Expert guidance: Brokers have in-depth knowledge of insurance products and industry trends.

• Negotiation: Brokers may negotiate better rates or coverage terms on your behalf.

The potential disadvantages of using insurance brokers:

• Potential bias: Brokers might favour insurers that offer higher commissions, affecting objectivity.

• Added costs: Broker fees might increase the overall cost of the policy, depending on the arrangement.

• Time commitment: Requires meetings and discussions to understand your needs and review options.

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Purchasing directly from insurers

Purchasing directly from insurers involves contacting insurance companies directly to obtain quotes and purchase policies. Local drivers typically choose this for direct communication and potential discounts. You can find them through their websites, contact them via phone, or visit their offices.

The benefits of purchasing car insurance directly from providers:

• Direct communication: Dealing directly with the insurer, ensuring clear communication and personalised service.

• Potential discounts: Insurers might offer direct purchase discounts or exclusive promotions.

• Comprehensive information: Access to detailed policy information and direct clarification of terms.

The potential disadvantages of purchasing directly from car insurance companies:

• Time-consuming: Requires contacting multiple insurers individually, consuming significant time and effort.

• Limited comparison: Difficult to compare multiple policies efficiently without a centralised platform.

• Potential bias: Insurers may push their own products, limiting your exposure to other options.

There are pros and cons of staying with the same car insurance company year after year so it’s important to do your research.

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If you’re wondering, “How do I get the best car insurance?” It's usually recommended to get quotes from at least three different companies before making your final decision. When evaluating prices, ensure you’re comparing policies with the same coverage limits and deductibles.

You should also be sure to see what other benefits the car insurance plan may have, such as 24-hour roadside assistance, cover for towing fees, or a courtesy car or transportation allowance. These can make a significant difference and provide added security and convenience during unforeseen events.

While you may be tempted simply to choose the cheapest option, it’s worth reading reviews and ratings for each insurer before you buy. You might just decide it’s worth paying slightly more for a policy from a company with better customer service to ensure peace of mind and efficient claims processing.

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First, it's crucial to confirm all policy details. Verify the coverage limits, the total premium amount, and the exact start date of your new insurance policy. Ensure all personal and vehicle information is accurate to prevent any future discrepancies or claim issues.

Next, proceed with the payment. Most insurers offer various payment methods, including credit card transactions, direct bank transfers, and installment plans. Choose the option that best suits your financial situation and ensure you receive a payment confirmation for your records.

Then, if you're switching insurers, remember to cancel your old policy in writing. This is essential to avoid any overlap in coverage or potential confusion during claims. A written cancellation ensures a clear record and prevents any unexpected charges.

Lastly, once your new policy is active, keep the policy document in a safe and easily accessible place. It's also advisable to carry a digital or physical copy of the policy in your vehicle. This ensures you have immediate access to vital information in case of an accident or other emergencies.

>> MORE: Pros and cons of staying with the same car insurance company