Owning a Car

Hong Kong - Getting Around

The following conditions for owning and maintaining a vehicle have been set in place by the Hong Kong Transport Department:

Licensing and registration

When registering a vehicle for the first time, owners must submit a completed TD22 application form to the Hong Kong Transport Department Licensing Office along with additional documents as described in the application form.  Upon verification, vehicle owners will be required to pay a First Registration Tax, license fee, and a levy to the Traffic Accident Victim Assistance Fund for licensing of a vehicle.

The Customs and Excise Department calculate the First Registration Tax fee based on the published retail price or provisional taxable value.  Cars with low emissions are offered a concession, while all other private vehicles pay an annual license fee ranging from HK $4,000 - $11,500 depending on the engine size.   A vehicle license is to be placed on the left side of the windshield at all times and should be renewed on a yearly basis.  Applying for the registration and licensing of left hand drive vehicles is only allowed under special circumstances.

Insurance

Along with licensing comes the obligation to cover the vehicle with third-party risk insurance.  A list of approved insurers can be obtained from the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers.

Examination

Prior to registration, all vehicles must pass a detailed examination.  This is the only examination required for the first six years of a vehicle, after which point annual examinations are a must before the vehicle can be relicensed. Examinations are subject to a vehicle examination fee.  Upon completion of the examination, owners receive a Certificate of Roadworthiness.

Photograph by mikeleeorg at www.Flickr.com