[2024 Update] Appeal letter template: For traffic fines and parking offences in Singapore

(Photo Credit: BAM Communications)

Do you want to appeal for your ticket, but you don’t know how? Don’t worry, we will be sharing with you how to write a proper appeal to give you the best chance of a waiver.

Traffic and parking fines are not something to take lightly. As the saying goes, “Singapore is a ‘fine’ city”. Parking in the wrong lot or displaying an expired coupon could cost you a fine of $200! And don’t even think about not paying as it could land you in court.

If you’re very ‘suay’, how can you avoid this? By writing a powerful appeal letter. If your reasoning is deemed valid, your fine could be waived completely and you could get off with just a warning.

Just follow these simple steps and pray that they give chance to you.

1) Give Your Details

(Photo Credit: Medium)

When writing an appeal, always provide your details to make it easy for the officers to identify and work on your case. Furthermore, making it easier for them leaves a good first impression of you which increases your chances of a successful appeal. Ideally, you should state the following details clearly:

Name:
Notice number:
Date of Issue:
Vehicle Number: 

2) Acknowledge the Offence and Be Honest

(Photo caption: Busy)

If you made a mistake, acknowledge it and be honest about it. Admitting to your mistake and apologising for it is a good way to start the ball rolling. These officers deal with many cases every day and being pushy and rude will not help your case and might offend them.

Instead of being defensive, you should always stay collected so they will get the impression that you are an understanding individual who will not repeat your actions.

If the fault is on the officer, do not get aggressive as they might not tolerate emotional or abusive letters. Explain your point of view and point their mistakes out politely. This gives you the best chance of being on their good side.

“I understand that I broke regulations and I sincerely apologise for my actions.”

3) Explain Why You Broke Regulations

(Photo Credit: iStock)

Here, you will be reasoning out with the officers. Try to give as much details as possible and provide documentary proof such as images, screenshots, or the expired coupon to strengthen your case.

As much as you want to the officer to understand your point of view, do not feed them a lengthy grandmother story. Keep your points concise and relevant.

What not to say:

“The weather was very nice that day but a bit too windy for me.” 

“I saw another driver doing the same as me but he never ‘kena’.”

Also, if there were circumstances that forced you to break regulations, explain with sincerity and honesty. Do not exaggerate or downplay your reasoning as it may come across as lies or insignificant reasons, respectively.

If you are a first-time offender, do mention it as they may be more lenient on you as well. Lastly, if you have any financial difficulties with the fine, do let them know as they may take that into consideration.

Always remember to be honest and sincere.

4) Seek Forgiveness

(Photo Caption: Know Your Meme)

This step will hopefully help the officers empathise with you on the matter. Asking for forgiveness will potentially soften their hearts and make them more willing to waive the fine off.

“I kindly ask for you to reconsider the notice mentioned above while taking these factors into account.”

5) Sign Off and Provide Contact Details

(Photo Caption: utimaco)

Finally, sign off sincerely and thank them for their time and attention. Moreover, provide them with your contact details such as name, contact number and email address so they can get back to you fast and with ease. Please use a professional and legitimate e-mail so you are taken seriously.

After you've completed all these steps, all you have to do is wait. Make sure to check your email to make sure you don't miss their reply!

Feel free to check out our ‘Appeal Letter’ template below to save you the trouble of drafting the appeal yourself.

*Appeal Letter Template:

Name:
Notice number:
Date of Issue:
Vehicle Number: 

Dear Sir/Madam,

On DATE, my vehicle LICENCE PLATE NUMBER was issued with a TRAFFIC/PARKING fine. It stated that I was fined for the following reasons:

STATE REASONS FOR THE FINE

I am writing to formally make an appeal to waive the fine. I understand that I broke regulations and I sincerely apologise for my actions. I request this appeal on the basis that it was an honest misunderstanding for the following reasons:

STATE REASONS FOR COMMITTING THE OFFENCE

*Attach Documentary Proof*

I understand the importance of TRAFFIC/PARKING rules, and the safety and harmony it brings for all road users. I will do my utmost best to abide by these rules from now on. I kindly ask for you to reconsider the notice mentioned above while taking these factors into account.

Thank you for your kind attention.

Yours Sincerely,

Name:
Contact Number:
E-mail Address:

*Disclaimer: This Appeal Letter template is not foolproof. Just remember to be honest and sincere, and pray for the best!

We hope these steps will guide you in writing an effective appeal letter. Alternatively, you can also download the Motorist App, register your vehicle and use our Traffic Offence Appeal feature to submit your appeals effortlessly to LTA, HDB, SPF and URA directly. 

Besides submitting appeals, you can also make payment to the respective agencies if your vehicle receives a parking or traffic fine. 

To check your vehicle for any outstanding fines, simply tap on the Traffic Offence feature under your Vehicle Profile > Manage.

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