Driving in Hong Kong for Overseas Driving Licence Holders
If you have a foreign driver’s license and want to drive in Hong Kong, you can:
(a) Apply for a full license without taking a test,
(b) Get a temporary license, or
(c) Drive using your valid overseas license or international driving permit if you are a visitor to Hong Kong (visitor means someone in Hong Kong for less than 12 months).
Apply for a Full Driving Licence by Direct Issue without Test
To be eligible:
(a) You must have a full driver’s license from one of the listed countries (e.g. Republic of Korea, China, Taiwan, Macau) Transport Department – Appendix C ,which:
(i) is valid for not more than 3 years
(ii) was obtained by passing a driving test in that country
(b) The driving license class you’re applying for must match what you’re allowed to drive in your home country.
(c) You need to meet one of these conditions:
(i) You lived in the issuing country for at least 6 months when the license was issued.
(ii) You have held the license for at least 5 years before applying.
(iii) You have a passport or similar document from that country.
What Should You Note?
The “direct issue” process is only for certain types of vehicles like cars, motorcycles, and light goods vehicles. If you pass the required driving tests, you need to apply for a probationary license. After a 12-month probation period, you can apply for a full license.
If you have a full license from a listed country, you can apply directly for a full Hong Kong license without the 12-month probation period.
If your license was issued through the direct issue process, it will have a reference number starting with “DI”.
You can request a letter certifying your driving entitlements or test completion from the Transport Department if needed.
During the evaluation process, you may be asked to visit the Transport Department office in Hong Kong for document verification. For questions, contact the Licensing Section at 2804 2693 / 2804 2600.
