Over 1,000 drivers apply for Hong Kong's new combined taxi and ride-hailing test

More than 1,000 drivers have applied to take a new written test required under Hong Kong's regulatory regime for ride-hailing services. The Transport Department announced on Monday that the test for taxi drivers has been merged with the new ride-hailing test; successful candidates can apply for a taxi driving licence or a ride-hailing vehicle permit after completing relevant courses. The first batch of 45 minute exams will be held in mid September, with licences issued starting in November.

Under the new laws passed last October, ride-hailing drivers must hold a specific licence. Drivers convicted of carrying passengers for hire without a permit now face a fine of up to HK$10,000 and driving disqualification for between 12 months and three years. Previously, the maximum fine for a first offence was HK$5,000 with no disqualification. Ride-hailing platforms must also obtain licences. Starting next August, unlicensed operators may face a maximum fine of HK$1 million and up to a year in jail.

The government has set a permit cap of 10,000 vehicles. Uber and Didi have stated they are preparing their licence applications, though Uber noted that a survey of riders showed concerns regarding increased fares and longer wait times. Lawmakers Mark Chong and Ben Chan expressed that interest in the tests is likely to grow as the industry prepares for the regime to come into full force next year.

Outlets of different political leans framed the event differently. The center-left source focused on the legal penalties for drivers and the historical tension between the taxi industry and ride-hailing platforms. The center-right source framed the event as a positive industry development, emphasizing the growth in applicant numbers and the support of the Legislative Council's transport panel.