Traffic Stops and Road Blocks
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Singapore Acts of Parliament, subsidiary legislation, and official government guidance.
Singapore National Law
What is this right?
Police and Traffic Police officers can stop vehicles and conduct checks under the Road Traffic Act:
- Power to stop: Any police officer in uniform may require a driver to stop the vehicle (Road Traffic Act, s26).
- Document checks: You must produce your driving licence, vehicle registration, and insurance when asked.
- Breathalyser tests: Police can require a breath test if they suspect you have been drinking, or at designated road blocks. Refusal is an offence.
- Road blocks: Under CPC s80, police may set up road blocks to stop and search vehicles during investigations.
- Drink-driving limit: 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath (or 80mg per 100ml of blood).
When does it apply?
- You are driving or in control of a vehicle on a public road in Singapore.
- Road blocks can apply to all vehicles — you do not need to be suspected of an offence.
What should you do?
- Pull over safely when signalled by a police officer.
- Have your documents ready — driving licence, vehicle registration card, and proof of insurance.
- If asked to take a breath test, comply — refusal is an offence carrying the same penalties as drink-driving.
- If arrested for drink-driving, a blood test may be taken at a hospital — you may request an independent blood test at your own expense.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't refuse a breathalyser test — refusal carries a fine of up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment up to 12 months, plus mandatory driving ban.
- Don't drive away from a road block — this is an offence and may result in a chase and additional charges.
- Don't argue at the roadside — if you believe the stop was unlawful, comply and challenge it later through legal channels.
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