Under the new rules, eligible ride-hailing drivers must be at least 21 years old, have held a private car licence for at least one year, and have no serious traffic convictions within the previous five years.
Platforms, vehicles and drivers will all be required to obtain licences, and drivers must pass a designated test.
Hong Kong’s transport commissioner will determine the number of ride-hailing permits to be issued, according to the legislation.
Uber said in July it was concerned about proposed caps on vehicle numbers, warning that artificial limits could reduce drivers’ earnings and increase wait times.
It said in a statement on Wednesday that the legislation was a “significant milestone” for Hong Kong’s transport system, adding that it looked forward to discussing its implementation, particularly vehicle quotas.
Operating a ride-hailing service without a permit could result in imprisonment and fines, according to the new legislation.
Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said licensed ride-hailing platforms were expected to begin operating in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Source: CNA
