Hong Kong Living Guide | One‑Stop Solutions: HKID Application, Mobile Service, Driving in Hong Kong

We understand that your first steps in Hong Kong may present challenges, such as understanding how to apply for your Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID). To assist you further, we have carefully compiled the relevant information below for you! 

Excited yet overwhelmed when arriving in Hong Kong? From identity registration to daily transportation, this guide provides clear steps to help you get settled efficiently.

First-Time HKID Application Process

For Arriving Talents in Hong Kong, obtaining your HKID is an essential first step to establishing residency. Appointments must be booked in advance through the Immigration Department website, mobile app or hotline (2598 0888) at one of six registration offices: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, Tseung Kwan O, Fo Tan, Tuen Mun or Yuen Long. After booking, complete the online form and bring your Exit-Entry Permit for travelling to and from Hong Kong and Macau, Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals/ Quality Migrant Admission Scheme/ Top Talent Pass Scheme/Student visa, entry slip or other proof of residency to complete registration at the counter. First-time registration is free; replacement cards incur a fee.^1,9

After seven years of residence and meeting eligibility criteria, you may apply for a permanent HKID, which also qualifies you for a Hong Kong passport offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 173 countries and regions.²

Mobile Services: Obtaining a SIM Card and Selecting a Plan

在To ensure reliable communication, arrange mobile services promptly. Prepaid SIM cards are available at telecom shops or convenience stores — simply register with your real name for immediate activation³ .

For longer-term residency, consider monthly plans ranging from basic packages (tens of HKD) to comprehensive options (hundreds of HKD). Select according to your usage patterns to ensure cost-effectiveness.

How to Convert Mainland and Overseas Licences to HK Driver Licence

To obtain a Hong Kong driving licence without a test through "Direct Issue of Full Driving Licence", eligible Mainland licence holders meeting Transport Department requirements (such as licence validity and authorised vehicle class) can book an appointment via the official website or hotline (3763 8080) at one of four Licensing Offices (Hong Kong, Kowloon, Kwun Tong, Sha Tin). Bring HKID, Mainland licence, completed Transport Department form (TD63A) and pay HKD 900. Successful applicants will receive a 10-year full driving licence and bypass the 12-month probationary period.^4,5

Certain overseas licences can also be converted through the same process. However, holders of some overseas licences must apply for a Temporary Driving Licence (HKD 288) and, within three months of arrival, pay HKD 510 to the Transport Department for a driving test. Upon passing, they may apply directly for a full driving licence.

Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles and Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles: Policy Overview and Application Tips

To facilitate travel between Hong Kong and Guangdong for private vehicle owners, the Hong Kong Government has introduced the "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles" and "Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles" schemes.^6,7,8

Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles: Eligible Hong Kong private cars must apply to the Transport Department for a Closed Road Permit (annual fee of HKD 540 or monthly fee of HKD 45) to travel via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Additional costs include RFID tag installation, vehicle examination fees and motor insurance.

Application Process¹⁰：

Stage 1: Online Application

1.      Eligible applicants must first register for the computer ballot via the "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles" website.

2.      Successful ballot applicants may submit their "Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles" application and pay the Transport Department fees within the specified period via the designated website.

Stage 2: Joint Approval by Both Authorities

3.      The Transport Department conducts preliminary vetting based on submitted documents.

4.      Mainland authorities conduct their review and notify applicants via the provided email or Mainland mobile SMS regarding approval status and next steps.

5.      Upon notification, applicants access the Mainland "Information Management Service System" via the designated website link to check status and upload proof of "compulsory motor vehicle third party liability insurance" as required by national regulations.

6.      Mainland authorities review the uploaded documents.

7.      If approved, Mainland authorities issue an electronic temporary inbound vehicle licence plate ("electronic licence plate").

8.      The Transport Department takes approximately one working day to receive and process the Mainland approval and electronic licence plate data, then notifies applicants of results via email and post within two working days of verification. If approved, the Transport Department issues and mails the relevant "permit" by ordinary post.

Stage 3: Booking Clearance and Travel

9.      After receiving the Mainland "electronic licence plate" and Transport Department "permit", applicants must book a specific date and time via the designated website's "Designated Day Booking System" before travelling via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port to Guangdong.

10.      Upon successful booking, drivers must travel on the booked date and time via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port to Guangdong.

From 1 September 2025, travel on designated days requires no advance booking.

Tip: Monitor ballot deadlines closely and provide an accurate email address when applying to receive notifications from both authorities regarding follow-up procedures, application progress, Mainland approvals, renewal notices and travel arrangements.

Mainland residents also benefit from the "Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles" scheme, which commenced in November. Transit parking facilities accept applications from 1 November at 9am and open at midnight on 15 November; city access applications begin 9 December at 9am, with approved Guangdong private cars entering Hong Kong via the Bridge from midnight on 23 December. For full details, visit the Transport Department's "Southbound Travel For Guangdong Vehicles(Entry into the urban area)" webpage¹¹ .

Must-Read for Private Vehicle Owners: Hong Kong Motor Insurance Guide

Generally speaking, all vehicles driven in Hong Kong are required to be covered by at least basic third‑party liability insurance (commonly known as “TPL” or “Third‑Party Cover”).

What is “Third Party Only Cover”?

“Third Party Only Cover” refers to third party liability insurance, which only covers compensation to third parties, including personal injury or property damage suffered by others, but does not cover losses to the private vehicle owner themselves. If you only purchase “Third Party Only Cover” for your vehicle, the insurance company will generally not cover your own losses if your car is damaged in an accident.

What is “Comprehensive Cover”?

If you want more comprehensive protection, the so-called “Comprehensive Cover” not only includes third party liability coverage but also protects your vehicle against losses due to accidents, theft, fire, and other incidents, giving you peace of mind while driving.

Should I choose “Third Party Only Cover” or “Comprehensive Cover”?

When deciding between “Third Party Only Cover” and “Comprehensive Cover,” you can choose based on your budget, risk tolerance, and personal needs. In addition, before you legally drive in Hong Kong, be sure to follow the Transport Department’s requirements to obtain all necessary insurance, driver’s license, and complete vehicle registration. Abiding by the law ensures you can enjoy smooth and worry-free driving in Hong Kong.

With these essentials sorted, you can confidently embrace life in Hong Kong.

The above information is for reference only. For the latest updates, please refer to the relevant websites.