What changed for the Hong Kong driving licence 直接發證 on 8 January?

From 8 January, the Transport Department stopped handing out on-site queue tickets for the direct issue of full driving licences. Instead, it issues same-day electronic tokens to manage service order. The intent is to speed processing, reduce confusion at opening hours, and limit broker or bot interference. Lawmakers also urged a fully digital path to strengthen fairness and improve transparency for applicants.

How do Transport Department e-token and HK licence online appointment differ?

The Transport Department e-token manages same-day service order for in-person issuance, replacing paper queue tickets. HK licence online appointment tools schedule other licensing services and could host more steps in the future. Lawmakers want end-to-end digitization so applicants complete more of the Hong Kong driving licence 直接發證 process online, with in-person checks only when required, improving efficiency and record quality.

Why is de-intermediation of brokers relevant to investors?

De-intermediation removes the advantage of agents who profit from controlling scarce queue slots. As e-tokens and verification improve fairness, agent fees and volumes may compress. That shifts spend to secure queuing, identity, and anti-bot solutions. Investors can look for procurement signals, service-level targets, and vendor traction in these areas as government workflows become more digital and data-rich.

What should applicants and service providers watch in the next phase?

Applicants should watch Transport Department updates on token rules, daily capacity, and any additions to online steps for Hong Kong driving licence 直接發證. Service providers should track tenders in identity, queuing, and anomaly detection, plus published metrics like wait times and complaint volumes. Consistent service performance, clear guidance, and inclusive access will determine adoption and commercial opportunities.

Law and Government

January 08: Hong Kong Scraps On-Site Licence Queues, Rolls Out E-Tokens

ByHuzaifa Zahoor January 8, 2026January 8, 2026

Hong Kong driving licence 直接發證 will move from on-site queue tickets to same-day electronic tokens on 8 January, the Transport Department confirmed. Lawmakers are urging end-to-end digitization to block brokers and bots, cut wait times, and improve fairness. For investors, the change signals demand for secure queuing, identity checks, and workflow software across government. The shift can compress agent fees and raise throughput tied to cross-border driving demand. We explain the mechanics, user impact, and what market participants should monitor next in Hong Kong.