Direct Answer:
Yes, you can make an appointment for the Direct Issue of a Hong Kong Full Driving Licence through the official GovHK/Transport Department Appointment Booking Service. As at early 2026, appointment booking is required, but document upload is part of the application (for online application channels) rather than a formally mandatory “AI pre‑verification” step embedded in every appointment.^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence]}

I. Introduction: The New Direct Issue Landscape (2026)

The “Direct Issue” mechanism allows holders of valid driving licences from recognised overseas countries or places (specified in the Fourth Schedule to Cap. 374B) to obtain a Hong Kong Full Driving Licence for private cars, light goods vehicles and/or motorcycles without taking a local driving test, provided that all statutory conditions are met. Under regulation 11(3) of the Road Traffic (Driving Licences) Regulations (Cap. 374B), this applies only to licences issued by recognised jurisdictions and only for non‑commercial classes.^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common][LCQ11: Mechanism of direct issue of Hong Kong full driving licence]}

Walk‑in applications at Licensing Offices have become increasingly restricted, and the Transport Department encourages applicants to use appointment booking and, where suitable, online application services. This guide summarises the 2026 process using the official GovHK appointment system and TD forms so that you can prepare correctly the first time.^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Online Services for Driving Licences and Tests][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

II. Phase 1: Preparation & Document Readiness

Before using the appointment or online application services, check that you meet the eligibility criteria and gather the required documents in original form, plus clear copies where needed.^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

Eligibility Check

You must hold a valid driving licence issued by one of the recognised countries or places listed in the Fourth Schedule to Cap. 374B (set out in Form TD63A). You must also satisfy Transport Department conditions, which typically include one of the following:^{[LCQ11: Mechanism of direct issue of Hong Kong full driving licence][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

• The overseas licence is valid and covers the relevant vehicle class (private car, light goods vehicle, motor cycle/motor tricycle).
• You obtained the licence while residing in the issuing country/place for not less than 6 months; or
• You have held that licence for at least 5 years immediately before application; or
• You hold a passport or equivalent travel document of the country/place where the licence was issued.^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common][LCQ11: Mechanism of direct issue of Hong Kong full driving licence]}

Detailed and up‑to‑date eligibility rules are set out on the TD Driving Licences pages and in the notes attached to Form TD63A.^{[Transport Department – Driving Licences][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

The “Digital‑First” Requirement

The Transport Department provides both online application and appointment booking services for driving licence matters. For direct issue, applicants may:^{[GovHK: Online Services for Driving Licences and Tests][GovHK: Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence][Transport Department – Driving Licences]}

• Submit an online application for new issue/addition of full driving licence (where they meet the criteria for online services), which involves uploading scanned copies of relevant documents; or
• Use the appointment booking service to submit a paper application in person at a Licensing Office, bringing originals and completed forms.^{[GovHK: Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][Transport Department – Driving Licences]}

For either route, make sure you have, at minimum:^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

• Proof of Identity: Hong Kong Identity Card, or passport/travel document (for non‑permanent residents where applicable).
• Overseas Driving Licence: Original, valid licence (front and back where applicable).
• Residential Address Proof: Issued within the last 3 months (e.g. utility bill, telecom bill, bank or insurer statement, or government correspondence), in line with TD’s address proof requirements.^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}
• Residence/Stay Evidence in Issuing Country (if applicable): Passport showing entry/exit records, travel record statement, visa or stay documents, school transcripts, employer’s testimonial, etc., demonstrating the required period of residence or long‑term holding of the licence.^{[LCQ11: Mechanism of direct issue of Hong Kong full driving licence][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

In addition, before submitting certain licensing applications, applicants must verify their e‑contact means (Hong Kong mobile number or email) via TD’s designated online platform within 3 months prior to application.^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

III. Phase 2: Step‑by‑Step Online Appointment Process

Step 1: Access the GovHK Portal

Go to the official Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service page at:
https://www.gov.hk/en/residents/transport/drivinglicense/abs.htm^{[abs.td.gov.hk – Tdabsfaq / Htm][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

You may also book by calling the 24‑hour Interactive Voice Response Service at 3763 8080, as described on GovHK and TD’s “Driving Licences” page. Use only official government websites and phone channels to avoid outdated or unofficial information.^{[abs.td.gov.hk – Tdabsfaq / Htm][Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Online Services for Driving Licences and Tests][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

Step 2: Select the Correct Service Category

Within the appointment system, choose the service relating to Direct Issue of Full Hong Kong Driving Licence (or equivalent wording shown in the latest service list). Do not select “Renewal”, “Driving Test” or other services, as these are processed at different counters and a wrong category may cause delay or rejection at the counter.^{[Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

Step 3: (Where Applicable) Upload and Pre‑Submit Information

For some online application flows (e.g. “Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence”), you will be asked to provide information and upload copies of supporting documents during the application process. For appointment booking alone, the current TD/GovHK pages emphasise booking a time slot and bringing the completed relevant forms and original documents, rather than a universal, AI‑based pre‑verification step for all appointments.^{[GovHK: Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence][Transport Department – Driving Licences][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

Always follow the on‑screen instructions in the latest GovHK/TD system for any requested uploads or data entry; if no upload is requested in the appointment booking step, you must still bring all required originals and forms to your appointment.^{[Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

Step 4: Select Licensing Office and Time Slot

Once you reach the calendar, you can select a Licensing Office and an available time slot. As at 2026, the main Licensing Offices handling driving licence services include:^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][Transport Department – Driving Licences]}

• Hong Kong Licensing Office (Admiralty)
• Kowloon Licensing Office (Cheung Sha Wan)
• Kwun Tong Licensing Office (Kwun Tong)
• Sha Tin Licensing Office (Sha Tin)

Choose the office and date/time most convenient to you and confirm.^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

Step 5: Confirmation and Reference Number

After confirming, the system provides an appointment reference (and, in some cases, a QR code or confirmation page that can be printed or saved). Keep this information (screenshot, print‑out, or email) as you may need to present the reference at the office for check‑in and enquiry.^{[abs.td.gov.hk – Tdabsfaq / Htm][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

IV. Phase 3: What to Do if No Slots Are Available

Appointment demand can be high, especially at popular offices and times.^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

• Rolling Window: GovHK runs a rolling booking window; according to the current driving licence appointment pages, you can generally book up to several weeks in advance for driving licence‑related services (GovHK notes a forward booking period, but does not formally state a fixed “10‑week” rule for all services).^{[abs.td.gov.hk – Tdabsfaq / Htm][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}
• Regular Checking: If you see “no appointment available”, check again at different times and days; new time slots are opened as the schedule moves forward and when cancellations occur.^{[abs.td.gov.hk – Tdabsfaq / Htm][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

Community tips about specific hours (for example, particular morning windows) are anecdotal and not officially endorsed by the Transport Department. Physical walk‑ins without appointment are generally discouraged and may result in long waiting times or being asked to return with an appointment, as TD promotes the use of the Appointment Booking Service for efficiency.^{[GovHK: Online Services for Driving Licences and Tests][Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

V. Mandatory Forms and Paperwork

Even where you have booked online, final submission for direct issue still involves official TD forms and original documents.^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

Download the latest forms from the TD forms page:
https://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_forms/td_forms/driving_licence/index.html^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

1. Form TD63A – Application for Direct Issue of Full Hong Kong Driving Licence

2. This is the primary application form for direct issue, listing recognised countries/places and setting out eligibility and documents required.^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

3. Medical Examination Report (Form TD256) – only mandatory if you are aged 70 or above, or where required under TD rules for particular cases.^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

Complete the forms carefully (in black ink if printed and filled by hand) before attending the Licensing Office, and check that all personal particulars match your identity documents.^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

VI. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How far in advance can I book?
You can book an appointment several weeks ahead; the GovHK Appointment Booking Service provides a forward booking window (for driving licence services, up to around 10 weeks is commonly mentioned in practice, but you should follow the actual availability shown on screen rather than relying on a fixed number).^{[Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

Can I change or cancel my appointment?
Yes. You can use the “Enquire/Change/Cancel Appointment” function on the GovHK Appointment Booking page to manage your booking, subject to the time limit specified (generally at least 1 day before the appointment).^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][abs.td.gov.hk – Tdabsfaq / Htm]}

Is there always an online document upload before an appointment?
No. For online applications (e.g. new issue/addition of full licence via GovHK), document upload is part of the application procedure. For appointment booking to submit a paper application, the current TD/GovHK pages focus on booking a timeslot and bringing completed forms and original documents; if upload is needed, the system will specify this at the time of use.^{[GovHK: Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence][Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

What are the typical processing fees?
According to Form TD63A, the fee for a full driving licence for applicants aged 60 or below is HKD 900 for a 10‑year licence. Fees are subject to change by the Government, so always refer to the latest fee table on TD forms and GovHK; payment at Licensing Offices generally accepts cash, cheque/cashier order (subject to conditions), Octopus, and selected electronic means as specified by TD.^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

VII. Conclusion

Using the Transport Department’s Licensing system in 2026 requires advance planning, correct forms, and careful attention to eligibility requirements. By checking your eligibility, preparing all documents in advance, and using the official GovHK Appointment Booking Service or online application platform, you can complete the direct issue procedure efficiently and avoid unnecessary repeat visits.^{[GovHK: Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence][Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

Final Checklist for Appointment Day:

• Appointment confirmation / reference (and QR code or printed page, if provided).
• Original overseas driving licence (valid, with relevant class).
• Original HKID and/or passport/travel document.
• Original address proof (not older than 3 months and consistent with what is stated on your application).
• Completed Form TD63A and, where applicable, Form TD256 (for aged 70+ or where required).
• Any supporting documents demonstrating residence/holding period as required by TD (passport entries, travel records, visa, school/employment proofs, etc.).
• Payment method accepted at Licensing Offices (e.g. cash, Octopus, or other means indicated on TD/GovHK).^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

Resources

• Official Appointment Booking:
  https://www.gov.hk/en/residents/transport/drivinglicense/abs.htm^{[abs.td.gov.hk – Tdabsfaq / Htm][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

• Online Application for New/Addition of Full Driving Licence (where applicable):
  https://www.gov.hk/en/residents/transport/drivinglicense/osfulldl.htm^{[GovHK: Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence]}

• Application Form & Notes (TD63A):
  https://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_forms/td_forms/driving_licence/index.html^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

• General Direct Issue & Driving Licence Policy Details:
  https://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_services/licences_and_permits/driving_licences/index.html^{[LCQ11: Mechanism of direct issue of Hong Kong full driving licence][Transport Department – Driving Licences]}

🏁 Summary & Action Plan

🚀 The 30‑Second Roadmap: Direct Issue HK Driving Licence (2026)

1. Confirm Eligibility
   – Licence from a TD‑recognised country/place (see TD63A/Fourth Schedule).
   – Meet one of TD’s conditions (e.g. issued during ≥6‑month residence, held ≥5 years, or passport of issuing country/place).^{[LCQ11: Mechanism of direct issue of Hong Kong full driving licence][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

2. Prepare Documents

3. HKID and/or passport/travel document
4. Original overseas licence (front & back where applicable)
5. Address proof (<3 months)

6. Evidence of residence/holding period (passport entries, travel record, visa, school/employment proofs)^{[LCQ11: Mechanism of direct issue of Hong Kong full driving licence][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

7. Choose Channel
   – Online application (where eligible): follow GovHK “Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence” and upload documents as instructed.^{[GovHK: Online Application for New Issue and Addition of Full Driving Licence]} – Appointment + in‑person submission: book via GovHK ABS, then attend with completed forms and originals.^{[Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}

8. Forms & Fees

9. Fill TD63A (and TD256 if age 70+).

10. Check latest fee (10‑year full licence for age ≤60 currently HKD 900) on TD63A / GovHK.^{[td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

11. On the Day

12. Arrive on time with confirmation/reference.
13. Bring completed forms and all originals.
14. Pay the required fee using an accepted method.^{[GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service][td.gov.hk – Filemanager / Common]}

📌 Pro Tip: Check the GovHK Appointment Booking page regularly for new or cancelled slots and always follow the most recent TD/GovHK instructions, as procedures and fees may be updated from time to time.^{[Transport Department – Driving Licences][GovHK: Appointment Booking for Transport Department Licensing Office Service]}