Singapore is a vibrant city pulsing with energy that offers world-class attractions and a superb transportation system. However, navigating taxi fares and surcharges here can sometimes feel like cracking a secret code.
But fear not! Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this guide will help you decode the intricacies of taxi peak hour timings, surcharges, and fare structures so you’ll always know what to expect.
Decoding Taxi Fares and Surcharges in Singapore
Taking a taxi in Singapore is mostly a straightforward process—until you notice the extra charges on your fare. From metered fares to time and location-based add-ons, every charge has its purpose.
Let’s break it down, starting with the components of your metered fare before exploring the surcharges that come into play.
Types of Taxi Fares
Some of the key elements you need to know when travelling with a standard taxi include:
- Flag-down rate: This is the initial charge upon boarding, covering the first kilometre (S$3.20–S$3.90).
- Distance rate: This applies after the first kilometre, at S$0.22 per 400 metres (first 10 kilometres) and S$0.22 per 350 metres (beyond 10 kilometres).
- Waiting time rate: This fee applies when the taxi is stationary or moving slowly, at S$0.22 per 45 seconds.
However, if you take premium taxis, they usually have higher flag-down fares (S$3.90–S$5.00 and up) and distance rates (from S$0.33 per 400 metres).
Keep in mind that the actual fares for both taxis may vary based on the location and time of day. For instance, midnight/peak hours may incur surcharges.
Types of Taxi Surcharges
Now, here’s where things get interesting (and sometimes confusing).
On top of your metered fare, there are surcharges that can be added to your bill. These aren’t random fees—they’re designed to account for demand, timing, and location.
Below is a quick look at some of the common types of taxi surcharges:
- Peak Hour Surcharge: An additional fee applied during busy periods to make taxis more readily available when demand is high.
- Midnight Surcharge: An extra charge for rides late at night, rewarding taxi drivers who operate all the way till the early hours of the morning.
- Location-Based Surcharges: Surcharges for high-demand areas like Changi Airport or Marina Bay Cruise Centre, where taxis are in greater demand.
These add-ons might sound like a hassle, but they’re essential for keeping taxis on the road when and where they’re needed most.
Time-Based and Location-Based Taxi Surcharges
Peak Hour and Late-Night Surcharges
Finding a taxi during rush hour can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s why the peak hour surcharge exists—it encourages more taxis to hit the streets during busy periods.
On weekdays, peak hours start from 6:00 AM until 9:30 AM and 6:00 PM to midnight. For weekends and public holidays, the surcharge applies from 6:00 PM to midnight. During these times, a 25% surcharge is added to your metered taxi fare.
But what about those late-night rides when the city is asleep?
Taxis operating in the early hours come with a different premium. Between midnight and 6:00 AM, the taxi midnight charge kicks in, adding a substantial 50% surcharge to metered fares. These fees ensure that taxis remain on the roads, ready to get you where you need to go, even at midnight or dawn.
Airport and Location-Specific Surcharges
In addition to timing, taxi surcharges may also apply based on location, such as airports and popular tourist attractions. These areas often face unique logistical challenges, and location-based surcharges help address the high demand, ensuring taxis remain available where they’re needed most.
Below are some of Singapore’s most popular (and surcharge-heavy) spots:
- Changi Airport: Depending on the time of day, taxi surcharges range from S$3 to S$8, depending on the time of day.
- Seletar Airport: A flat S$3 surcharge applies all day.
- Mandai Wildlife Reserve: A $3 surcharge applies for trips scheduled between 4:00 PM and midnight.
- Marina Bay Cruise Centre: A $5 surcharge is in place from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, while a S$3 surcharge applies at other times.
- Marina Bay Sands: On Sundays and public holidays, a S$3 surcharge is applicable from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
It’s important to know these charges in advance so you can avoid any unpleasant surprises when the meter ticks to the final amount.
Payment Methods and Associated Charges
No cash? No problem! Nowadays, taxis are well-equipped for a variety of payment methods—but be mindful of extra fees that may come with your choice of payment methods.
Cash, Credit Card, and NETS Payments
Taxis in Singapore typically accept three main payment methods: cash, credit cards, and Network for Electronic Transfers (NETS). However, as mentioned, certain options may come with additional surcharges, regardless of the time of your ride.
Some of the most common payment methods, along with their perks and associated costs:
- Cash: Simply pay the fare shown on the meter with no extra charges.
- Credit Card: Easy to use, but a 10% surcharge will be added to your total fare.
- NETS: Ideal for digital payments, though there’s a small S$0.30 fee per transaction.
ERP Charges and Other Extra Fees
In addition to timing, location, and payment method surcharges, taxi fares may include Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) charges when passing through toll gantries. These fees will be automatically added to your fare, so if your route involves a toll road, you might notice a slight increase in cost.
But that’s not all—other potential surcharges could also apply. For instance, taxis picking up passengers in the Central Business District (CBD) often incur a CBD pickup fee. Additionally, if you are travelling with a group of more than 4 passengers, you will also get an extra charge of S$3 per person.
Maxi Taxi: A Smart Alternative to Avoid Surprises
Overwhelmed by surcharges? Choose Maxi Taxi for a reliable private transport service in Singapore!
Maxi Taxi lets you skip surcharges despite the convenient services, including bypassing the hassle of peak hours and location-based fees. Plus, with transparent pricing, you’ll always know exactly what you’re paying upfront—no surprises or mental gymnastics.
Whether you need an airport transfer service or an hourly charter for a romantic date night, we provide top-notch options to let you enjoy the city while travelling in style. All you need to do is sit back and experience the comfort of a private driver service that ensures your journey is smooth and stress-free.
So why stress over what time the surcharge for taxis in Singapore is when you can ride with confidence? Book your ride with Maxi Taxi today for a seamless, hassle-free journey across the city.