Step-by-Step Guide: Dog & Cat Licensing in Singapore (2025)

Owning a pet in Singapore comes with responsibilities, including the requirement to license your dog or cat. Here’s everything you need to know about the licensing process in 2025, explained in straightforward terms.

Steps to Get a Dog or Cat License in Singapore

Apply for a license through the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS) website. Here’s how:

Step 1: Register or Log in to PALS

If you’re a first-time user, register on the PALS platform at pals.avs.gov.sg.
You’ll need your SingPass for quick access.
Non-SingPass users can create a new profile under PALS account using other identification documents like a passport.

Step 2: Complete the Online Pet Ownership Course

Go to the course link and complete it.
It covers topics like pet care basics, licensing rules, and legal responsibilities.
Complete the online course and obtain a Certificate of Completion.

Step 3: Gather Necessary Information

Prepare these details before starting your application:

Your address (where the pet will be kept).
Your pet’s details (microchip number, vaccination history, sterilization certificate).
A photo of your pet (optional but encouraged).

Step 4: Apply for the License

Log in to PALS and click on ‘Apply Licence’ under e-Services.
Fill in the required details for the licensee (you) and your pet.
Upload any necessary documents, like a sterilization certificate if applicable.
Pay the licensing fee online or at an AXS station.
Sterilized pets have the option to apply for a one-time license, which is the most cost and time effective choice!

Step 5: Download Your License

Once approved, you’ll receive an electronic license, which you can download from the ‘My Licences’ tab on PALS.

What Is a Cat or Dog License?

A pet license is a legal document issued by Singapore’s Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) that registers your pet with the authorities. It ensures your pet is traceable if lost, helps monitor the pet population, and promotes responsible ownership. You need to register a pet in Singapore, Singapore pet ownership regulations require it.

In 2025, licensing isn’t just for dogs – cats now require licenses too. This change encourages better care and accountability for feline pets.

What’s New in 2025?

Cat Licensing Introduced
All cats kept in residential areas must now be licensed.
Online Pet Ownership Course Requirement
Before applying for a pet license, you must complete a short Online Pet Ownership Course. This course is designed to help pet owners understand their responsibilities, such as proper care, legal obligations, and animal welfare.

Renewing Your License

One-time licenses are valid for a lifetime and do not require renewal.
Yearly licences must be renewed annually before expiry date.
You can renew through PALS by selecting ‘Renew Licence’ under the ‘My Licences’ tab.

Special Licensing Cases

Diplomat Licenses: Special licenses are available for diplomats.
Specified Dogs: Breeds classified as Specified Dogs require additional documentation, such as insurance and an obedience training certificate.

Costs

Licensing fees vary depending on whether your pet is sterilized.
Sterilized Pets: Cheaper licensing fees encourage responsible ownership.
Unsterilized Pets: Higher fees apply to discourage breeding.

Why License Your Pet?

Legal Requirement: Licensing is mandatory in Singapore. You need a Dog or Cat license in Singapore in 2025.
Pet Safety: Helps trace your pet if lost.
Promotes Responsibility: Ensures owners are accountable for their pets.
Bringing pets into Singapore (pet relocation) requires a license to get an import permit for them to enter Singapore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I don’t license my pet?

You could face fines or penalties. Licensing is a legal requirement in Singapore.

Can I transfer a pet license to a new owner?

Yes, you can initiate a Change of Licensee through PALS. The new owner will need to accept the transfer online.

Is the Online Pet Ownership Course difficult?

Not at all! The course is short and designed to educate pet owners in a simple, accessible way.

What if I have multiple pets?

Each pet requires its own license, so you’ll need to repeat the process for every dog or cat you own.

Can someone else do this for me?

No- given there is a short course to complete and a certificate of completion, you need to do this yourself and can't ask someone to do on your behalf!

Why I need a pet licence?

You need a dog or cat license to keep keep a pet in Singapore, as well as relocate a pet to Singapore. In Singapore, licensing your pet is a legal requirement aimed at promoting responsible pet ownership and ensuring public health and safety.

What are the requirements for a pet license in Singapore?

you need to do (or have) Online Pet Ownership Course, pet microchip, Submit your application through the Pet Animal Licensing System.

What is the Cost of a Pet License in Singapore?

The licensing fees vary based on the type and sterilization status of your pet: Dogs below five months of age: S$15 per dog for a one-year license. First three dogs (Sterilized): S$15 per dog for a one-year license. First three dogs (Unsterilized): S$90 per dog for a one-year license. Fourth and subsequent dogs: Higher fees apply, and specific conditions must be met. All cats: similar fees to dogs. Please note that these fees are subject to change. There are also different prices for 2 or 3 year licenses or lifetime (One-time) licenses.