Over 1,000 drivers apply for Hong Kong ride-hailing tests under new regime

Hong Kong's Transport Department announced Monday that more than 1,000 drivers have applied to take written tests for new ride-hailing regulations. These legal provisions, which took effect the same day, mandate that ride-hailing drivers obtain a specific license, with passing a test being a prerequisite. The exam for taxi drivers has been integrated into this new test, meaning both ride-hailing and taxi drivers will now take the same examination.

The first of these 45-minute written tests are scheduled for mid-September, with licenses to be issued starting in November. The legislation, passed last October, imposes significant penalties for operating without a permit. Drivers convicted of carrying passengers for hire or reward without a license face disqualification for 12 months to three years and a fine of up to HK$10,000 for a first offense. Previously, the maximum fine was HK$5,000, with no driving disqualification.

Despite the new rules, some ride-hailing drivers may continue operating, believing enforcement is unlikely, according to Roundtable lawmaker Mark Chong. He suggested drivers could temporarily work as taxi drivers while awaiting their licenses. Ride-hailing services have surged in popularity, often driven by public dissatisfaction with taxi service standards. Uber launched in Hong Kong in 2014, but the sector operated in a legal gray area until now.

The new regulations also require ride-hailing platforms to obtain a license. Starting next August, operators without a license could face a maximum fine of HK$1 million and up to a year in jail. Hong Kong has set a cap of 10,000 ride-hailing vehicles. Uber and Didi have indicated they are preparing their license applications, while Uber has noted rider concerns about potential increases in wait times and fares due to the cap.

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ride-hailing drivers may continue to operate, believing the risk of enforcement is low.