I am a local logistics provider. Can I tap on the Train and Place Class 4 driving programme to train my truck drivers? What are the criteria and how can I apply?

The Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) is seeking to train over 700 Singaporeans as Class 4 drivers to meet the manpower demand arising from robust economic growth in the manufacturing, logistics and construction sectors.

Suitable job-seekers will be trained as prime mover, delivery and truck drivers before they are placed in jobs.

Under the Train and Place Class 4 driving programme, companies will sponsor job-seekers (who already possess Class 3 driving licences) with Class 4 driving lessons.

These job-seekers will be recruited by their sponsor companies as Class 4 drivers upon completion of training and successfully passing the driving test conducted by the Traffic Police.

WDA will provide funding support of up to 90 per cent of the training fees incurred.

The Class 4 driving course package costs $647.50, not including the fees payable to the Traffic Police.

There are eight lessons in total - one theory and seven practical lessons.

There is one instructor to one trainee for the practical lessons. WDA subsidises the following:

• 90 per cent of the Class 4 driving course package (includes seven practical lessons) capped at $544.50, whichever is lower.
• 90 per cent of the refresher course for first retest (includes two practical lessons) capped at $207, whichever is lower.
• Fees payable to the Traffic Police Department are fully borne by companies.

You can obtain an application form from Pan Country Driving Centre (PCDC) directly and return photocopies of relevant documents (such as appointment letter and driving licence) to PCDC after the sponsored trainee passes the driving test and accepts a job as a driver of Class 4 vehicles with you, the sponsoring company.

The waiting time for the Class 4 driving test is about five to six weeks, and the driving lessons will be conducted within this waiting time period.

WDA's approved training provider for the Train and Place Class 4 driving programme is Pan Country Driving Centre.

Address: Fourth Chin Bee Road #01-06 Jurong Stadium Car Park, Singapore 619698

Contact: Ms Susan Ang on 62683331/62684142

Besides the training support, WDA will also offer job placement assistance to employers who need to recruit Class 4 drivers by referring potential job-seekers from the databases of NTUC CareerLink and the Community Development Councils (CDCs) to them.

For more information, visit www.wda.gov.sg

For inquiries, go to www.business.gov.sg or e-mail enterpriseone@spring.gov.sg

This article was first published in The Straits Times on September 3, 2008.