Singapore, known for its world-class urban planning and seamless public transportation, also boasts one of the most sophisticated road pricing systems globally—Electronic Road Pricing (ERP). Implemented in 1998, the ERP system was introduced by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to manage traffic congestion by charging motorists for using certain roads during peak hours.
Over two decades later, ERP remains a key traffic management tool in Singapore. However, with constantly reviewed rates and evolving traffic patterns, understanding ERP charges and knowing when to travel without incurring fees is vital for both residents and visitors alike. This article provides a detailed overview of ERP rates in Singapore and offers practical guidance on how to avoid them without compromising travel efficiency.
What is the ERP System?
The Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system is a dynamic, pay-as-you-use scheme designed to regulate traffic flow and reduce congestion on Singapore’s busiest roads. ERP gantries are placed strategically across expressways and busy arterial roads, primarily in and around the Central Business District (CBD), Orchard Road, and major expressways such as the CTE, PIE, and AYE.
Charges are automatically deducted from an in-vehicle unit (IU) linked to a stored-value card, such as a NETS CashCard or CEPAS card, whenever a vehicle passes through a gantry during operational hours.
ERP rates vary depending on the time of day, type of road, and prevailing traffic conditions. Rates are reviewed quarterly based on traffic speeds and congestion levels, ensuring the system remains responsive and effective.
ERP Rates at a Glance (as of 2025)
ERP charges are typically levied from Monday to Saturday, excluding Sundays and public holidays. Rates fluctuate depending on peak travel periods, with the highest fees usually imposed during the morning (7:30 AM – 9:30 AM) and evening rush hours (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM).
Below is a sample overview of ERP charges at selected key gantries (subject to quarterly updates):
| Location | Time | ERP Rate (Cars) |
|---|---|---|
| CTE (towards city) before Braddell Rd | 7:30 AM – 8:00 AM | $2.00 |
| CTE (towards city) after PIE | 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM | $3.00 |
| PIE (towards Tuas) after Adam Rd | 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM | $1.50 |
| AYE (towards city) before Alexandra Rd | 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM | $1.50 |
| Orchard Road – Bideford Rd | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | $1.00 |
| CBD Cordon Gantry | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM | $3.00 |
Note: ERP rates differ for motorcycles, heavy vehicles, and buses. Charges are lower for motorcycles and higher for larger vehicle classes.
Best Timings to Avoid ERP Charges
To optimise your travel budget and time, strategic planning around ERP operational hours is key. Here are some general guidelines to avoid charges:
1. Travel Before 7:30 AM or After 10:00 AM (Morning Rush)
Most gantries begin charging at 7:30 AM, with rates peaking around 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM. Travelling before 7:30 AM is an effective way to bypass ERP charges, especially if you’re commuting into the city.
Example:
- A commuter entering Orchard Road via Scotts Road at 7:25 AM will not be charged. However, the same journey five minutes later may incur a $2.50 fee.
2. Midday Travel (Typically 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Outside of lunch hour zones like Orchard and CBD, many ERP gantries remain inactive during midday. If your travel route includes expressways or non-central business roads, this is the safest time window.
Caution: ERP charges may still apply in Orchard and Marina Bay areas between 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM.
3. After 7:30 PM on Weekdays
Most evening ERP charges cease by 7:30 PM, although some key expressways may charge slightly longer depending on traffic data.
Tip: Plan errands or inter-town travel after dinner hours to enjoy ERP-free roads.
4. Sundays and Public Holidays
ERP charges are suspended on Sundays and designated public holidays, making them the best days for recreational or city-centre travel.
How to Stay Informed on ERP Charges
Given that ERP rates are reviewed every quarter, it’s important to stay up to date:
a. LTA Website and MyTransport.SG App
The LTA’s official website and MyTransport.SG mobile application offer real-time ERP rate charts, active gantry timings, and alerts on temporary changes.
b. In-Vehicle Units (IU) Alerts
Modern IU systems provide notifications when passing gantries, including upcoming charges or insufficient funds in your CashCard. Some newer cars also integrate ERP data into GPS systems.
c. Electronic Road Signboards
Electronic signage placed before gantries inform drivers of current charges, allowing last-minute decisions to reroute or divert.
ERP-Free Alternatives and Routes
For the cost-conscious or environmentally-minded commuter, exploring ERP-free alternatives can be both economical and efficient:
1. Use ERP-Free Roads
Some roads provide direct access to central areas without incurring ERP charges. Examples include:
- Outram Road to Chinatown via Outram Park MRT
- Bukit Timah Road during off-peak hours
- Nicoll Highway if travelling after ERP cut-off times
2. Public Transport Options
Singapore’s MRT and bus networks provide seamless access to most ERP-covered zones. Opting for public transport not only avoids ERP fees but also eliminates parking costs and carbon emissions.
3. Active Mobility Options
Cycling paths and park connectors have expanded in recent years. For short distances, especially within the city fringe, cycling or using personal mobility devices can help commuters bypass ERP entirely.
ERP System: A Future Outlook
Satellite ERP – The Next Generation
Singapore is in the process of transitioning from the current gantry-based ERP system to a satellite-based ERP 2.0 system. Expected to be fully rolled out by 2026, this next-gen system uses GPS technology to charge vehicles based on distance travelled in congested zones, rather than fixed gantry points.
Benefits:
- Fairer charging mechanism – Pay by usage rather than route choice.
- Customised congestion control – Enables flexible pricing for varying vehicle classes, timings, and road conditions.
- Improved enforcement and data collection – For urban planning and traffic forecasting.
Tips to Minimise ERP Costs Without Compromising Convenience
- Carpool or Share Rides – Split ERP costs and fuel between passengers.
- Consolidate Trips – Plan multiple errands in one journey during non-ERP hours.
- Use Real-Time Navigation Apps – Google Maps and Waze often highlight ERP gantries and suggest alternative routes.
- Check Monthly ERP Spending – Review your IU or CashCard statements to identify patterns and savings opportunities.
Conclusion
ERP remains a fundamental part of Singapore’s strategy to reduce road congestion and promote sustainable transport. While it may seem like an unavoidable expense, smart planning can significantly reduce or even eliminate ERP charges altogether. Whether by adjusting travel times, opting for alternate routes, or embracing public transport, drivers can enjoy smoother, cost-effective commutes through the Lion City.
As Singapore prepares to launch the next generation of satellite ERP, staying informed and adaptable will be essential. For now, with the right knowledge, avoiding unnecessary ERP charges is both achievable and empowering for motorists navigating the city’s roads.