The Transport Department has launched the 'International Driving Permit Self-Service Station.' Residents can simply make an online appointment in advance to apply for and collect their international driving permit on the same day. In this article, we will present a detailed introduction to the application eligibility and important notes for using the self-service station, along with our experience from actually using the system.

International Driving Permit Self-Service Station Locations | Daily Quota of 32

The Transport Department has set up a 'Self-Service Station' at both the Hong Kong Licensing Office and the Kowloon Licensing Office. From Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays), each location offers 32 quotas daily, which can be reserved through the online system, with a maximum reservation period of 10 weeks.

If all documents are in order, applicants can collect their international driving permit within one hour. The Transport Department will notify applicants via SMS to collect their permit at a designated counter in the same licensing office.

• Hong Kong Licensing Office:

3rd Floor, Unified Centre, 95 Queensway, Hong Kong (near MTR Admiralty Station Exit D)

• Kowloon Licensing Office:

2nd Floor, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon (near MTR Sham Shui Po Station Exit C)

International Driving Permit Self-Service Station | Application Eligibility

• Hold a Hong Kong Identity Card (non-permanent HKID card/temporary identity card is also acceptable).
• Hold a valid Hong Kong full driving license (or expired for no more than 3 years).
• Probationary license (P license) is not eligible for application.

International Driving Permit Self-Service Station | Important Notes

• Use a 'iAM Smart+' account for identity verification and digital signature.
• Verify 'electronic contact method' with a one-time password.
• Take a photo on the spot.
• Bring a proof of address issued within the last three months.
• Only supports electronic payment (credit card, FPS, PPS); application fee is HK$80.
• You can collect your 'International Driving Permit' at a designated counter on the same day.

International Driving Permit Self-Service Station | Step-by-Step Demo Application

1. Use 'iAM Smart+' for identity verification and enter application details.

2. Verify electronic contact method and scan proof of address.

3. Take a photo at the self-service station; applicants have up to 3 attempts for the photo.

4. Enter your mobile phone number and receive an SMS notification for collection.

5. Use 'iAM Smart+' for digital signature.

6. Pay the fee via electronic payment and receive a receipt.

The station currently supports credit cards, PPS (Payment by Phone Service), and FPS (Faster Payment System). However, since there is no credit card terminal at the station, applicants need to enter their credit card number manually.

7. Collect your 'International Driving Permit' at the designated counter.

The process took about 20 minutes from application to collection, and it was smooth overall. The steps for scanning the proof of address and entering credit card information may take a bit longer. We recommend you use electronic proof of address and pay via FPS. After getting your receipt, you can expect to receive a collection SMS in about 10 minutes.

International Driving Permit Self-Service Station | Online Booking Steps

1. Applicants must first use the online service to make a booking for the driving permit.

2. Read the terms of use, check the box indicating that you have read the terms, and click 'Start.'

3. Click on 'International Driving Permit' and then click 'Make a Booking.'

4. Enter your driving license information and your email or fax number.

5. After selecting a location, click on 'Self-Service Station' (self-service stations are only available at the Hong Kong and Kowloon Licensing Offices).

6. Choose the booking date and time.

7. Verify your information and click 'Continue.'

8. A confirmation screen will appear; you will receive a confirmation email and should arrive at the booking location on time.

Image Source: Transport Department

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I apply for an International Driving Permit? 

Residents holding a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID card for non-permanent residents/temporary identity card is also acceptable) and a valid Hong Kong full driving license (or one expired for no more than 3 years) can apply in person at the counter, submit the application by mail, apply online, or apply through the online system at the self-service station.

What should I be aware of when going to the International Driving Permit Self-Service Station? 

You must make an online booking before visiting the self-service station. Upon arrival, you will need to verify your identity and perform digital signing using a 'iAM Smart+' account. Since photos will be taken on-site, applicants do not need to bring a passport photo but should bring a proof of address issued within the last three months. The station only supports electronic payments (credit card, FPS, PPS) for the application fee of HK$80. If all documents are in order, you can complete the process and collect your 'International Driving Permit' in about one hour.