When you purchase car insurance in Singapore, you'll receive a series of important documents. Each serves a different purpose — from proving your coverage to outlining your policy details. Whether you're buying a new car or renewing your insurance, it's essential to understand what these documents are, what information they contain, and why they matter.

Below is a breakdown of the key car insurance policy documents you'll encounter in Singapore.

1. Cover Note

A Cover Note is an interim document issued by your insurer before your official Certificate of Insurance is prepared.

It serves as proof of insurance and is legally binding as a temporary insurance contract.

You'll need this document when registering a new vehicle with the Land Transport Authority (LTA). Once your vehicle registration is completed, your insurer will issue the Certificate of Insurance containing your vehicle registration number.

2. Certificate of Insurance

The Certificate of Insurance is one of the most important documents you'll receive. It is required to renew your road tax, as it proves the existence of valid car insurance coverage.

This certificate is signed by an authorized representative of the insurer to certify its authenticity.

Typical information on the Certificate of Insurance includes:

  • Certificate number
  • Name of insured
  • Vehicle registration number
  • Start and expiry dates of coverage
  • Persons or classes of persons entitled to drive the vehicle
  • Limitations of use

For Motor Fleet Insurance (covering multiple vehicles), the registration number is replaced by a description of the vehicles covered under the policy.

3. Motor Insurance Proposal Form

Also known as the Application Form, this document is submitted to the insurer during the underwriting process. Insurers rely on the details you provide to assess the risk of insuring your vehicle, determine your premium, and issue the policy.

Providing accurate and complete information is crucial — any inaccuracies may affect your coverage or future claims.

Typical information requested in the proposal form includes:

  • Name and address of the car owner
  • Type of business or trade (if applicable)
  • Driving experience of all drivers (insured and named)
  • Claims history and No-Claim Discount (NCD) entitlement
  • Type of coverage (Comprehensive, TPFT, or TPO)
  • Vehicle usage details
  • Any vehicle modifications
  • Vehicle make, model, seating capacity, market value, and year of manufacture
  • Vehicle registration number, date of registration, engine number, and chassis number
  • Finance or hire purchase company (if applicable)
  • Details of vehicle accessories

Once this form is submitted and approved, your Cover Note or Certificate of Insurance can be issued.

4. Renewal Notice

While not legally required, most insurers in Singapore issue a Renewal Notice to policyholders about one month before the policy's expiry.

The renewal notice serves as a reminder to renew your insurance and provides key details of your current policy.

A typical renewal notice includes:

  • Name of insured
  • Policy expiry date
  • Renewal premium amount
  • Vehicle details
  • Permitted usage and any exclusions or restrictions

Renewing your policy on time ensures continuous coverage and avoids penalties or lapses that could affect your No-Claim Discount.

5. Geographical Area of Coverage

Many car owners wonder if their insurance remains valid when driving outside Singapore.

Most motor insurance policies issued in Singapore cover you in:

  • Singapore
  • West Malaysia
  • Parts of Thailand (within 50 miles of the border between Thailand and West Malaysia)

Your insurer will bear the risk of losses, damages, or liabilities incurred within these boundaries. It's wise to confirm the geographical limits stated in your policy before embarking on any cross-border trips.

Final Thoughts

Your car insurance policy documents are more than just paperwork — they are legal and contractual records that define the scope of your protection.

  • The Cover Note gives you interim coverage.
  • The Certificate of Insurance is essential for legal and administrative compliance.
  • The Proposal Form ensures your insurer understands your risk profile.
  • The Renewal Notice keeps your coverage continuous.
  • And knowing your Geographical Area of Coverage helps you stay protected wherever you drive within the insured region.

Take time to read and understand these documents carefully. If any details are unclear, reach out to your insurer or agent for clarification before you need to make a claim.