TD Rigorously Validates “Direct Issue” Applications, Expanding Your Ability to Optimize Procedures and Experiences (with Photos)

The Transport Department (TD) announced today (23 April) that it is processing and verifying each application for direct issuance of a full Hong Kong driving license (‘direct issue’) in a rigorous manner to protect road safety. We have also improved the application experience by fully introducing online reservations for this counter service and expanding processing capacity.

Transport Secretary Winnie Tse visited the Hong Kong Licensing Office (HKLO) at the United Center in Admiralty. She was briefed on the operations and application status following the full implementation of online bookings for “direct issue” counter services from March 16, a 40% increase in booking quotas each working day, and an expansion of services to the Territory’s four licensing offices.

Tse is pleased that the reservation system has been running smoothly and stably since its inception. Applicants can follow the system’s instructions to make an appointment and submit their application at their chosen licensing office in a fair and orderly manner, saving on-site waiting time. He also observed that the current reservation system, which involves registering applicants’ real names, uses artificial intelligence (AI) technology to verify identity through a pre-screening of ID documents and driver’s licenses uploaded by applicants, while counter staff check the originals of required supporting documents on-site. If the documents are complete, a full Hong Kong driving license can be issued on the same day.

Ms Tse said: “Applications for ‘direct issue’ include documents issued outside Hong Kong. Applicants can be directly issued with a full Hong Kong driving license without taking an on-site driving test. In order to protect road safety in the public interest, we will carry out strict inspections and make necessary adjustments. “At the same time, we will actively explore the use of AI technology to improve application processing and promote the integrated development of digital technology and transportation to further improve efficiency and the application experience.”

TD is digitizing its licensing services and currently offers more than 20 online licensing services. As citizens gradually became accustomed to and eager to use more convenient electronic services, the number of applicants submitting online applications increased significantly from approximately 140,000 in 2021 (7 percent of the total) to approximately 790,000 in 2025 (35 percent of the total), an increase of 4.6 times.

Additionally, Ms. Tse learned about the Hong Kong Labor Department’s efforts in vehicle registration and licensing. He thanked the team for deploying additional staff and working overtime to deal with the recent influx of first-time registration applications for electric private vehicles under the ‘one-for-one exchange’ scheme. She also visited the Department of Public Vehicles and received updates on licensing services for public transport vehicles.

Ended/April 23, 2026 (Thursday)

Published at 12:45 Hong Kong time

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