A beginner’s guide to driving in Hong Kong

A key adjustment for global talent moving to Hong Kong is adapting to the local driving system. Hong Kong adopts the ‘left-hand traffic’ rule for road design, in which traffic keeps on the left-hand side of the roads and steering wheels are set on the right-hand sides of  vehicles. If, you're accustomed to driving on roads designed based on ‘right-hand traffic’ rule , don’t worry — by familiarising yourself with essential traffic considerations, you can safely navigate Hong Kong's dynamic urban landscape. This guide will help you adjust to Hong Kong’s driving norms. 

Obtaining a full driving licence locally

Global talent with foreign driving licences may apply for a Hong Kong driving licence to drive in Hong Kong through the following means: 

1. Direct Issue of a full driving licence without test: Holders of a driving licence from approved countries or places can apply for a full Hong Kong driving licence directly to drive private cars, light goods vehicles, motor cycles and motor tricycles through this streamlined process;
2. Temporary driving licence and driving test: If your current driving licence is not from an approved country or place, you can apply for a driving test within three months of arrival and a temporary driving licence to drive private cars and light goods vehicles. The temporary driving licence will be valid until the expiry of your overseas driving licence, or the expiry of 12 months from the date of your arrival in Hong Kong to take up residence, whichever occurs first. Upon passing the relevant driving test, you can apply for a full Hong Kong licence.

When applying for a driving licence, ensure you submit the correct form to the Transport Department: TD63A for direct issue of a full driving licence or TD181 for a temporary driving licence. Remember to include all required documents, such as your passport and overseas driving licence. Note that non-Chinese or non-English documents must be accompanied by an officially certified translation.

The validity of a full driving licence can be up to 10 years. Please also note that it should be renewed within 4 months prior to the date of expiry or within 3 years from the date of expiry. 

Embracing Hong Kong's driving culture

Here are some key points to help drivers understand the relevant legislation and traffic rules in Hong Kong, particularly for those unfamiliar with ‘left-hand traffic’ rule. Keep these in mind when you navigate the city's roads for a smoother experience:

1. No left turn on red: Drivers must follow the traffic light signals. When the red light is showing, vehicles must be stopped behind the ‘stop’ line. Do not drive forward nor turn (either turn left or right). Drivers must wait for the green light to show before moving or making any turns provided that it is safe to do so. Do observe the surrounding road condition before moving off to avoid pedestrians or vehicles suddenly crossing ahead. Furthermore, when the traffic light turns amber, drivers must stop behind the ‘stop’ line unless the vehicle is so close to the stop line or light signals that it cannot safely be stopped before passing the stop line or light signals.
2. Use of expressways: On an expressway, keep to the left most lane (commonly known as Slow Lane), overtake only on the right, and do not drive on the hard shoulder except during traffic diversion, breakdown or emergency. Drivers who are accustomed to ‘right-hand traffic’ rule should remember to avoid driving into the wrong lane or hard shoulder in order to prevent accidents. 
3. Pedestrian first on ‘zebra’ crossings: Hong Kong has laws in favour of pedestrian rights. When approaching a ‘zebra’ crossing, look out for pedestrians waiting to cross, and be ready to slow down and stop behind the ‘Give way’ line to let pedestrians cross first. Drivers must stop behind the ‘Give way’ line and give way to anyone who has stepped onto a ‘zebra’ crossing. 
4. Use vehicle lamps properly: Headlamps must be switched on at night (including dusk and dawn) or in poor visibility (e.g. in rain or fog) to let other road users see the approaching vehicle more easily when driving. Drivers must also use ‘dipped lights’ where there are street lights or in the face of approaching traffic. Do not drive so close behind another vehicle to avoid dazzling the driver. Use ‘high beam lights’ only where there is no street lighting, and change to ‘dipped lights’ immediately when there is approaching traffic from the opposite direction.
5.  No drink driving: In Hong Kong, drink-driving is a criminal offence under the Road Traffic Ordinance. The prescribed limit is set at 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath, 50 milligrams of alcohol per 100ml of blood or 67 milligrams of alcohol per 100ml of urine. Any driver found exceeding the prescribed limit may face prosecution including fines, imprisonment, and disqualification from driving.
6. Use of roundabouts: When entering a roundabout, drive in clockwise direction and give way to any traffic on the immediate right inside the roundabout. When on a roundabout, maintain driving attentively, look out for and show consideration to other vehicles, especially those intending to leave by the next exit. When leaving a roundabout, pay attention to the road markings and any vehicles that may enter or cross your path from behind on the left even if the road marking is in your favour. In the case of missing your exit, continue to circle around the roundabout until you reach that exit again and leave.
7. Breakdowns and emergencies: If the vehicle breaks down or you encounter an emergency, turn on the hazard warning lights immediately. If the accident only involves slight damage to the vehicles or property without causing personal injury, get the vehicle off the roadway if possible. Leave the vehicle only if it is safe to do so and wait at a safe place. Do not stay at carriageway and never forget the danger of passing traffic. Call 999 for the police in case of traffic accidents, emergencies or needed assistance.

Drive safe and experience the city’s dynamic urban landscape

For global talent moving to Hong Kong, it's essential to consult the Road Users' Code for comprehensive guidance on traffic rules and regulations as you embark on this new driving adventure. Every drive is an opportunity to experience this vibrant city while prioritising safety for all.