Cross‑border taxi quota raised to 500 per country on 16 Nov 2026
The Singapore‑Malaysia cross‑border taxi scheme will raise each country's licensed fleet limit from 300 to 500 vehicles on 16 November 2026, affecting commuters, tourists and ride‑hailing users. The change also introduces two new digital platforms alongside GrabCar, expanding booking options across the Causeway and Second Link.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Fleet quota increased to 500 vehicles per nation and two new digital operators added
- Timing
- Effective 16 November 2026
- Who is affected
- Cross‑border taxi drivers, commuters and tourists using the scheme
The details
- Announced by
- transport ministries of Singapore and Malaysia
- Takes effect
- 16 November 2026
- Previous rule
- Before the latest revision each nation could operate 300 licensed cross‑border taxis, for a combined total of 600 vehicles.
- New rule
- From 16 Nov 2026 each nation may operate 500 licensed cross‑border taxis, raising the combined quota to 1,000 vehicles, and two new digital platforms join GrabCar.
Bilateral programme launch
Singapore and Malaysia’s transport ministries issued a joint statement confirming a new phase of the Cross‑Border Taxi Scheme. The programme aims to improve land mobility across the Johor‑Singapore Causeway and the Second Link, offering more reliable point‑to‑point travel for regional travellers, commuters and tourists.
Fleet quota expansion
The passenger‑carrying capacity under the scheme will rise from 300 to 500 licensed vehicles per country on 16 Nov 2026. The total allowable fleet grows from 600 to 1,000 vehicles, creating space for up to 400 newly licensed cross‑border cabs. Roll‑out will be phased, allowing operators to verify vehicle compliance and driver credentials before full deployment.
- Previous cap: 300 vehicles per nation (600 total)
- New cap: 500 vehicles per nation (1,000 total)
- Phased introduction to ensure mechanical readiness
Addition of digital ride‑hailing operators
Alongside GrabCar, two regional platforms – Singapore‑based CDG Zig and Malaysia’s Kumpool – will join the licensed international scheme on the same launch date. The multi‑operator environment gives passengers more flexibility to book dedicated cross‑border trips via familiar mobile apps, view fare estimates and select vehicle sizes.
- CDG Zig (Singapore) and Kumpool (Malaysia) added
- All three apps will operate under the same regulatory framework
Designated pickup points and cabotage rules
Strict rules prevent vehicles from picking up passengers at unauthorized locations. Malaysian‑registered taxis may drop off anywhere in Singapore but can only pick up at four approved terminals. Singapore‑registered taxis enjoy similar restrictions in Malaysia, with pickups limited to Larkin Terminal and three retail hubs. Drivers must wait in designated bays until an electronic dispatch is received.
- Malaysian taxis: pickups at Ban San Street, VivoCity, Century Square, Joo Koon
- Singapore taxis: pickups at Larkin Terminal, Toppen, Mid Valley Southkey, Angsana
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with bookings after 16 Nov 2026 can expect more vehicle options and larger six‑seater cars.
- Return trips must originate from an authorized pickup terminal, not from random hotels or malls.
Cost and documents
- No new fees are introduced; existing fare structures remain unchanged.
- Passengers should verify that the chosen app displays the official livery and roof signage.
What you need to do
- Book rides through GrabCar, CDG Zig or Kumpool to ensure the vehicle is licensed.
- Check that pickup locations match the authorized terminals listed for each jurisdiction.
Who this affects
-
Malaysian‑registered taxis operating in Singapore
They are now limited to four specific pickup terminals while drop‑offs remain unrestricted.
What to do Pick up passengers only at the approved Singapore terminals.
-
Singapore‑registered taxis operating in Malaysia
They must adhere to designated pickup points in Johor and cannot hail passengers elsewhere.
What to do Use Larkin Terminal or the three retail hubs for passenger pickups.
-
Cross‑border commuters using ride‑hailing apps
Two new digital platforms join the scheme, expanding booking choices.
What to do Select GrabCar, CDG Zig or Kumpool for licensed cross‑border trips.
-
Tourists travelling between Singapore and Malaysia
Increased fleet size and larger vehicle categories improve group travel options.
What to do Plan trips with the larger six‑seater or premium six‑seater options where needed.
-
Local residents relying on street‑hail taxis
The quota increase allows more licensed street‑hail vehicles at the main terminals.
What to do Use the authorized terminals for street‑hail pickups to stay within the regulated system.
Frequently asked questions
When does the cross‑border taxi quota increase take effect?
The quota increase becomes effective on 16 November 2026, raising each country's limit to 500 licensed vehicles.
Which new ride‑hailing apps are authorized for cross‑border trips?
From the launch date, CDG Zig from Singapore and Kumpool from Malaysia join GrabCar as licensed cross‑border operators.
Can Malaysian taxis pick up passengers anywhere in Singapore?
No, Malaysian‑registered taxis may only pick up passengers at four approved Singapore terminals while drop‑offs are unrestricted.
What pickup locations are allowed for Singapore taxis in Malaysia?
Singapore‑registered taxis can pick up passengers at Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru and three retail hubs: Toppen, Mid Valley Southkey and Angsana.
Will fares change with the new fleet expansion?
Fares remain based on the existing tariff schedules; no new fee structure is introduced with the quota increase.
Do I need a special permit to ride a cross‑border taxi?
Passengers do not need a permit; they must simply use a licensed operator and board at an authorized pickup point.
