All 300 daily slots for Hong Kong's direct driving license application were snapped up within 30 minutes on its first day, with authorities reporting smooth operations for the system's debut.
The new "Online Same-day Queue Ticket" system aims to alleviate scalping and long queues outside the Transport Department's Admiralty licensing office, which previously offered only 140 daily on-site tickets.
Under the new arrangement, applicants can join the online queue from 6.30am, where the system assigns and displays a queue number for entry into the booking system beginning at 7am.
Speaking on a radio program on Monday, assistant commissioner of the Department Amy Lee Mei-fung confirmed the system operated smoothly, with all tickets distributed efficiently on the first day.
Lee added that notices and extra staff were deployed to explain the new arrangement to walk-ins at the office.
Online applicants are required to provide personal details, including their name, the first four digits or letters of their identification document, and a mobile number and email for SMS notifications.
"Successful applicants will receive a confirmation message within five minutes," Lee said.
Lee described the five-minute window for users as "more than sufficient" but indicated that it could be adjusted if necessary. She also mentioned that the department will monitor demand and consider increasing daily quotas.
Additionally, Lee reminded applicants to arrive punctually for their appointments at the Licensing Office with their application and original documents, as those who are late or absent may need to obtain a new ticket.
Regarding mainland applicants who may face timing challenges, Lee indicated that cases involving valid same-day tickets would be handled flexibly on a case-by-case basis.
The Admiralty licensing office saw only a handful of people queuing this morning, with the notorious long lines noticeably absent on the first day of the new arrangement.
A mainland student surnamed Dai, who was aware of last week's long queues, praised the convenience of the new process, having secured a slot within two minutes after 7am.
However, some applicants, Ho, were unaware of the new arrangement until arriving at the office. "Any measure that resolves the issue is welcome," Ho said. "I was just unfortunate to find out only when I got here today."
The online booking system is expected to extend to three other licensing offices from March, with increased appointment capacity.
