Self-driving Tours 2023 - International Driving Permit Application

Self-driving tours are the most popular travel option for the people of Hong Kong, which is why the Transport Department's Licensing Office often has long queues as many people apply for international driving permits for their trips. But is that the only way to apply for an international driving permit? What are the common pitfalls drivers should be aware of when renting cars abroad? And how should travel insurance be arranged? In this article, Kwiksure will provide a step-by-step guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable self-driving trip!

International driving permits cannot be applied for online, only in person or by mail

But first thing first, here’s something all applicants should know: an international driving permit is NOT a driving license! It cannot replace a formal driver's license. Therefore, when driving abroad, you still need to carry both your official Hong Kong driving license and the international driving permit!

Plus, probationary driving license (P-license) holders are not eligible to apply for international driving permits. In other words, new license holders need to wait one year until they get their full license before they can apply for an international driving permit.

Plus, probationary driving license (P-license) holders are not eligible to apply for international driving permits. In other words, new license holders need to wait one year until they get their full license before they can apply for an international driving permit.

Currently, there are two ways to apply for an international driving permit: with an in-person application or an application by mail. Online applications are not yet supported. However, applicants can make appointments beforehand for counter service at the Licensing Offices, thus avoiding the hassle of queuing on the spot. The four Licensing Offices are located in Admiralty, Cheung Sha Wan, Kwun Tong, and Sha Tin.

Applicants need to hold a Hong Kong Identity Card (non-permanent resident identity cards/recognizance forms are also acceptable) and a valid Hong Kong driving license (or one that expired less than 3 years ago).

1. Apply in person at a Licensing Office

-> Online appointment for Licensing Office counter services

1. Due to long waiting times for on-site queues, we strongly recommend that you make an online appointment for Licensing Office counter service in advance, or call 3763 8080 to select a specific counter at a Licensing Office.

   

2. On the Hong Kong Government's "Book Appointment for Driving Licences Related Services" webpage, under the new online booking service, click on "Online appointment booking for the above driving licence related counter services".

   

3. Choose "To Book an Appointment".

   

4. After selecting "I have read, understood and agreed with the above terms and conditions", click "Continue".

   

5. Scroll down to the International Driving Permit section and click "Make an appointment".

   

6. Fill in your full driving license expiry date, HKID number, and provide an email address to receive the appointment confirmation.

   

7. Select the Licensing Office, appointment date, and time.

   

   

-> Preparations before going to the Licensing Office

• Download or obtain the International Driving Permit application form (TD51) from the Licensing Office and fill it out.

• Personally bring the completed application form and the following required documents to the Licensing Office:

• Two recent photos (plain background, 40mm x 50mm)

• Hong Kong ID card

• Hong Kong driving license

• Original or copy of proof of address issued within the past three months

• Pay the application fee of HKD $80 by cash, FPS, EPS, or crossed cheque made payable to "Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region".

• The international driving permit will be issued on the same day.

 2. Apply by mail

• Download or obtain the international driving permit application form (TD51) from a Licensing Office and fill it out.

• Mail the completed application form and the following documents to "Transport Department Kwun Tong Licensing Office, PO Box 68115, Kowloon East Post Office":

• Two recent photos (plain background, 40mm x 50mm)

• Hong Kong ID card

• Hong Kong driving license

• Original or copy of proof of address issued within the past three months

• HKD $80

If you visit the Licensing Office in person, you can make the payment by cash, FPS, EPS, or crossed cheque made payable to "Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region".

If you apply by mail, only crossed cheques made payable to "Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region" are accepted for payment. Remember to write your name, the first four characters of your identity document number (including letters and numbers), and contact phone number on the back of the cheque for identification purposes. 10 working days after the Transport Department receives your application, your international driving permit will be sent to you by registered mail.

The international driving permit (IDP) is valid for one year from the date of issue, with no limit on the number of times it can be used within that period. After the expiration date, the holder can reapply. As a matter of fact, even before the IDP expires, you can apply for a new one at any time.

Countries/regions that recognize the IDP

Currently, over 90 countries or regions recognize the IDP issued by Hong Kong, including Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Thailand, Australia, and more. However, mainland China is not currently in the list, whereas in Taiwan, an IDP is not required for driving. You can refer to the government's website for IDP for the complete list of countries/regions that recognize the IDP.

Countries/Regions accepting the IDP by region

Asia: Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, India

Oceania: Australia, New Zealand

Europe: United Kingdom, France, Finland, Poland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Netherlands, Norway, Belgium, Italy, Turkey, Portugal, Spain, Ireland, Austria, Russia, Switzerland, Greece

The Americas: United States, Canada, Peru, Chile, Cuba, Argentina

Middle East and Africa: United Arab Emirates, Israel, South Africa, Egypt, Morocco

Are IDPs recognized in Mainland China/Taiwan?

IDPs issued by Hong Kong are not currently accepted in Mainland China. To drive in Mainland China, you need to obtain a Mainland China driver's license.

To apply for a Mainland China driver's license, you need to make an online appointment and visit a designated "Public Security Bureau Office of Vehicle Management" in Guangdong Province in person. The nearest offices for those from Hong Kong include the Shenzhen Bay Port Police Medical and Postal Service Station, Shenzhen Public Security Bureau Office of Vehicle Management, and Lo Wu Vehicle Management Substation. To apply for a driver's license, you need to bring your Hong Kong driving license, Hong Kong ID card, Home Return Permit, medical examination report, and four passport-sized photos with a white background.

On the other hand, driving in Taiwan does not require an IDP under a reciprocal agreement. However, not all local car rental companies are familiar with the relevant regulations. If you are concerned, you may apply for an IDP just in case it is asked for.

Are IDPs valid for emigration purposes?

IDPs are typically intended for temporary travel purposes only. If you emigrate, you should convert your Hong Kong driving license to a local license. However, in some countries, IDPs may be used for a few months after arrival before you are required to obtain a local driver's license, and you should check the licensing requirements of the country you are moving to. Some countries may even allow direct conversion of a Hong Kong driving license to a local one without any exam, while others may impose time limits, meaning that after residing in the country for a certain length of time, you will no longer be exempt from taking the local driving test.

5 things to be extra careful about when renting a car for self-driving tours

1. Choose a reputable and legal car rental company

When you're in unfamiliar turf, don’t choose the lowest-cost car rental company just to save money. These little known companies may provide rental terms that fail to meet even the basic local car insurance requirements. For example, the company may only have secured private car insurance for the cars being rented out, when what is really needed is commercial vehicle insurance.

2. Carefully read the car rental and insurance terms

Remember to carefully read the car rental agreement and car insurance documents. Some car rental companies may include insurance premiums in the rental agreement, but not all companies do so. You should also ensure that the coverage amount is sufficient to compensate for potential injuries or damage since rental insurance coverage can sometimes be rather low. If an accident occurs and your insurance is not enough to cover all the costs, you will have to pay out of pocket.

3. Book a vehicle ahead of time and make sure the equipment you desire is available

If you're visiting countries like Japan or South Korea, you should book a car online in advance. Some websites offer early-bird discounts, and booking a full month ahead increases the chances of being able to reserve the car model you desire. You may also specify that your rental car must be equipped with a GPS navigation system.

4. Pay attention to local regulations

In Hong Kong, people drive on the left, and vehicles keep to the left. However, in some countries like Canada, France, and Germany, it's just the opposite. They drive on the right, and vehicles keep to the right. Moreover, each country has its own traffic rules and speed limits. For example, in Bulgaria, the speed limit on highways can be up to 140 km/h, while in the UK, the maximum speed is 112 km/h. As a further example, in Japan, drivers are required to have child safety seats installed for children under 6 years of age.

5. Take photos as evidence when taking possession of the car

When taking possession of a rental car, you should thoroughly document the condition of the vehicle to ensure that its look and performance are normal, including that there are no scratches or dents. If any issues are found, inform the car rental company without delay. You should also take photos or videos of the vehicle as evidence to avoid disputes when returning the car. Finally, remember to fill up the car just before returning and drive it to the designated location. Otherwise, the rental company may charge you additional fees.

Can foreigners use IDPs while in Hong Kong?

For visitors from countries or regions that are eligible for the issuance of a Hong Kong driving license without a test, and whose stay in Hong Kong is for no more than 12 months, they can use their foreign driving license here. However, if their stay is for more than 12 months, they must get a local driving license.

For visitors who are not from recognized countries, an IDP is required.

Finally, under Hong Kong law, all drivers must have third-party liability insurance. Therefore, visitors must complete the necessary procedures before renting a car.

Travel insurance tips for self-driving tour car rentals

Most travel insurance policies only cover "car rental deductibles" and "personal accident and medical expenses," but they usually do not compensate for third-party losses caused by self-driving tour accidents (such as when others are injured or public property is damaged). Therefore, it is necessary to purchase additional coverage from the car rental company.

"Car rental deductibles" refer to the fee that the car renter must pay when making a claim. Rental car insurance provided by car rental companies typically has a "deductible". For example, if the repair for a vehicle costs $5,000, and the deductible is $1,000, the renter must pay $1,000 out of pocket, and the remaining $4,000 will be covered by the rental car insurance. The "car rental deductible" coverage in travel insurance can help pay this $1,000 deductible.

Lastly, car owners can determine the coverage amount based on the destination's driving environment (such as weather and road conditions) and their own driving skills. If you sense a higher risk of accidents, you should secure insurance with a higher coverage amount.