Pilot scheme on electronic transmission of insurance data to Transport Department

     The Transport Department (TD) today (November 19) announced that a pilot scheme to test the feasibility and effectiveness of transmitting vehicle insurance data electronically would be launched on Friday (November 21).

     "The six-month 'Pilot Scheme on Electronic Transmission of Insurance Data to Transport Department' applies only to the backend process in relation to the renewal of vehicle licences.  The six participating insurance companies will send the vehicle insurance data electronically to the Transport Department through a G2B Insurance Portal, which is set up with the close support and co-operation of the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers (HKFI).  The portal will ensure the data be encrypted with senders' identity (insurance companies) authenticated for transmission to the department's Vehicles and Drivers Licensing Integrated Data System (VALID)," a Transport Department spokesman said.

     The Chief Executive of HKFI Mr C H Tam said, "Our industry supports this Government's initiative and will continue to work closely with the Transport Department to help ensure the success of the pilot scheme."

     "As the data transmitted will include the name and identity document number of a vehicle insurance holder, the participating insurance companies will inform the vehicle owners concerned and seek their consent on the release of data.  Participation in the pilot scheme is on a voluntary basis," the spokesman said.

     "During the pilot period, the existing procedures for application for renewal of vehicle licences will remain unchanged.  Applicants for renewal of vehicle licence are required to provide the required documents, including Identity Document, valid Insurance Policy or Cover Note, original Vehicle Registration Document, Certificate of Road of Worthiness and address proof when filing their applications," he said.

     For details and enquiries on renewal of vehicle licence, please visit GovHK at www.gov.hk or call 1823.

Ends/Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Issued at HKT 14:30