Direct issue of Mainland small vehicle and motorcycle driving licences to Hong Kong residents

The Guangdong and Hong Kong Governments have earlier announced the arrangement to directly issue Mainland driving licences for small vehicle and motorcycle, effective January 1, 2004.

Under this new arrangement, Hong Kong residents holding a valid Hong Kong driving licence can apply for the said Mainland driving licence at any of the licensing offices of the Guangdong Public Security Bureau.

A spokesman for Transport Department said: "The Hong Kong SAR and the Mainland have different traffic regulations, road signage and markings, and driving directions. To ensure road safety, prevent traffic accidents, and enable Hong Kong residents issued Mainland driving licences under the new arrangement to familiarize themselves with the Mainland's traffic regulations, road signage and penalty point system, etc., the licensing offices of the Guangdong Public Security Bureau will provide Hong Kong applicants with a guide book entitled "Vehicle Driving Examination in Guangdong".

Hong Kong residents holding Mainland driving licences should contact the Public Security Bureau immediately (telephone no.:122), or seek assistance from the Hong Kong authorities by calling the (852) 28293010 hotline, if they are involved in any traffic accidents while driving in the Mainland.

Regarding insurance coverage for driving in the Mainland, the Guangdong Public Security Bureau has advised that all vehicles in the Mainland must be covered by third party insurance, to provide protection for road users.

For more detailed information, please approach the Traffic Police Headquarters of the Guangdong Public Security Bureau or relevant Mainland organizations.

To know more about the new arrangement on the direct issue of Mainland driving licences to Hong Kong resident, please contact the Traffic Police Headquarters of the Guangdong Public Security Bureau at 86 20 83111536 or call the HKSARG hotline at (852) 1823.

Ends/Wednesday, December 24, 2003