The Legislative Council completed its scrutiny of four subsidiary legislations related to the regulation of ride‑hailing services last month, and most of the legal provisions under the regulatory regime, including those that strengthen penalties for illegal carriage of passengers for reward, took effect today (Aug. 3). Convicted drivers of unlicensed vehicles – commonly known as "white‑plate cars" – face a maximum fine of HK$10,000 and six months' imprisonment on a first conviction, together with disqualification from holding or obtaining a driving licence for a period of not less than one year and not more than three years.
Earlier today, a netizen posted a complaint on social media, saying, "Uber, what the hell? I've been calling all morning and there's no car!!" Other users reminded him that "the new law starts today" and that "cracking down on unlicensed cars begins now," while some suggested, "Just call Uber Taxi – you'll have a guaranteed ride and a seat." Under Hong Kong's Road Traffic Ordinance, drivers who carry passengers for reward without a valid hire‑car permit are liable on a first conviction to a fine of HK$10,000 and imprisonment for six months, and on a second or subsequent conviction to a fine of HK$25,000 and imprisonment for 12 months, in addition to disqualification from driving for a period of not less than 12 months and not more than three years.
Separately, the Transport Department today launched an integrated written test for taxis and ride‑hailing services and began accepting applications on the same day; the first batch of candidates is expected to sit for the enhanced integrated written test starting in mid‑September this year.
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