3 Things to Consider Before Renewing COE of Your ROPC/OPC

With the high expenses of owning a car in Singapore, many people consider renewing their COE instead of buying a brand new car. Cars under the Off-Peak Car scheme (OPC) and the Revised Off-Peak Car (ROPC) schemes cannot be driven from Mondays to Fridays from 7 am to 7 pm, except during Singaporean public holidays. ROPC cars can use their cars on Saturdays without restrictions (and on public holidays). This privilege, however, also comes with a higher road tax. OPC cars, on the other hand, can use their car on Saturdays from 7 am to 3 pm only. Users of both schemes need to have an electronic day licence in order to drive during restricted hours. Part of owning a car in Singapore is obtaining a Certificate of Entitlement (COE) regardless of whether it’s a regular or weekend car. Here are some things to consider in renewing the COE of your OPC / ROPC:
 

1. Age Of The Car

With extended usage, the road tax of your OPC / ROPC would be higher. For example, a car more than a decade old is subject to pay an annual road tax surcharge 10% of the road tax, while those more than eleven years old would be paying 20% of it, and so on. Apart from this, the age of the car depending on how long you drive it, will start to show its wear and tear which means you will shell out for its repair and maintenance. If all those expenses seem cumbersome, it might be better to just get a new car.
 

2. Possible Rebates

When a car is de-registered before it reaches ten years, owners may receive a Preferential Additional Registration Free rebate (PARF).   The older the car is, the smaller the amount of the PARF. If you are more inclined to sell and buy a new car, the rebate might be well worth it. The PARF can be used to offset various upfront vehicle taxes and fees making it more affordable for you to purchase a new car.
 

3. Future Plans For The Car

Another thing to consider is your future plans for the car. Do you plan to use it as a second car for the family? Owners can choose from renewing for another five years, or for another ten years. No bidding is required for the renewal. There would be a 50% payment of the Prevailing Quota Premium for a five-year renewal.   Additionally, there is no renewal available for the five-year COE extension after expiry. Whichever renewal option you choose, keep in mind that there would be no PARF rebates anymore, even if the car is de-registered before the COE period expires.

Keeping these factors in mind will help you decide whether or not you should renew the OPC / ROPC of your car.

5-Star Quality Off-Peak Car Insurance

Just because you don’t often use your OPC car doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be fully covered. With our flexible car insurance plans, you can be sure that you are getting the best deal for you. Get a direct quote now and start saving on your motor insurance! Choose the plan you want. Pay the way you want. You are insured!