Drivers get easier fixes on vehicle licensing

Charlotte Lam

The Transport Department has streamlined vehicle licensing requirements, notifying owners about the latest validity periods following successful renewals.

New vehicle licenses will now include a QR code, allowing for easy access to the department's online expiry date inquiry platform.

Upon successful renewal, vehicle owners will receive a notice detailing the latest validity period of their licenses along with a vehicle license that does not display an expiry date.

Owners can continue using the same physical license for future renewals, provided that key vehicle details remain unchanged.

If any details do change, a new license will be issued.

Owners applying for renewals from yesterday will automatically benefit from the new measures. Those with the previous license format can continue using it until their next license renewal.

A spokesman said: "With vehicle license enhancement, vehicle owners do not need to replace the license displayed on their windscreen."

If a vehicle license without an expiry date is lost, damaged or defaced, owners must apply for a replacement.

The application process has also been simplified by eliminating the need for certain documents.

Owners no longer need to submit a vehicle registration document or certificate of roadworthiness after passing the vehicle examination.

Online applications will also no longer require the listing of insurance policies if the department can verify records through the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers' system.

Currently, the online system takes seven days for effective verification.

"Simplifying application documents has enabled vehicle owners to renew more quickly and conveniently," the spokesman added.

Electronic reminders will also be sent before licenses expire, using contact information provided during application.

Lam, a vehicle owner who has been driving for over 20 years, said "this change helps save time. For those of us under 60, waiting in line for renewals can take a long time. Additionally, we no longer need to change the physical vehicle license in our cars, which adds to the convenience."