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Hong Kong Tackles Queuing Gangs with New License Rules
Navigating the process of obtaining a driving license in Hong Kong is about to get a significant overhaul. The Transport Department has introduced groundbreaking measures to combat a persistent problem that has long plagued licensing offices: queuing gangs and unauthorized ticket touting.
Starting in August 2025, applicants seeking a direct issue of a full driving license will face a new, more rigorous verification process. The days of easily transferring or reselling queue tickets are coming to an end. Now, individuals must input both their own identity card number and the ID numbers of any applicants they’re representing. These details will be printed directly on queue tickets and meticulously checked by counter staff.
The motivation behind these changes is clear. Queuing gangs have been exploiting the system for years, profiting from unauthorized facilitation services. These groups have been particularly active on social media platforms like Xiaohongshu, where they collect same-day tickets and resell them at premium prices. Their activities have created significant disruption and unfairness in the licensing process.
To address these challenges, the Transport Department has implemented a comprehensive strategy. Beyond the new ID verification system, they’ve installed physical barriers to separate queues, specified precise ticket sequencing to prevent queue jumping, and increased on-site security. Staff and security guards will now be strategically positioned to assist applicants and quickly identify any disruptive behavior.
For those unfamiliar with Hong Kong’s direct issue process, it offers a streamlined path to obtaining a local driving license. Holders of valid driving licenses from 32 recognized countries can apply without taking a local driving test. The eligibility criteria are straightforward: the overseas license must be currently valid or have expired no more than three years ago. Additionally, applicants must have lived in the issuing country for at least six months when the license was originally issued, or have held the license for five or more years.
The crackdown doesn’t stop with queue tickets. From September 2025, the department will introduce enhanced validation checks for mainland driving license information submitted through online appointments. Any detected false information will result in immediate cancellation of the appointment, with the quota reopened for other applicants.
These measures represent more than just administrative tweaks. They reflect a broader commitment to creating a fair, transparent, and efficient licensing system. By targeting the root causes of queue manipulation, the government aims to protect genuine applicants and restore integrity to the process.
For those planning to apply, the message is clear: come prepared, bring accurate documentation, and be ready to verify your identity. The days of circumventing the system are numbered. Whether you’re a local resident or an overseas license holder looking to convert your driving credentials, the new rules ensure a more level playing field.
The implementation of these strict measures signals a significant shift in how Hong Kong manages its licensing services. It’s a testament to the government’s willingness to adapt and address systemic challenges head-on. As digital technologies continue to evolve, we can expect even more sophisticated approaches to preventing fraud and ensuring fair access to public services.
For now, applicants should stay informed, follow the new guidelines carefully, and approach the licensing process with patience and transparency. The goal is simple: a fair, efficient, and accessible system for everyone.