New taxi and public light bus driver identity plates rolled out

     The Transport Department (TD) today (October 6) rolled out taxi and public light bus (PLB) driver identity plates with a 10-year validity period. New specifications for the driver identity plates also came into effect.

     Having regard to the request from taxi and PLB trades for a longer validity period of driver identity plates, and as one of the facilitation measures put forth in the report of the Public Transport Strategy Study released in June 2017, the validity period of taxi and PLB driver identity plates has been extended from one year to 10 years.
 
     Taxi and PLB driver identity plates issued before October 6, 2018, will still be valid for 12 months. For example, if a driver identity plate was issued on September 1, 2018, it will still be valid until August 31, 2019. The driver can then apply for a new driver identity plate on September 1, 2019, and it will be valid until August 31, 2029. Therefore, there is no need for holders of valid taxi or PLB driver identity plates to rush to change to the new driver identity plates.

     Taxi or PLB drivers with valid taxi or PLB driving licences can obtain their new taxi or PLB driver identity plates at the TD's authorised agents. They can obtain flyers listing the information of the TD's authorised agents at the TD Licensing Offices and Home Affairs Enquiry Centres of the Home Affairs Department. Also, the TD is distributing the flyers to taxi and PLB drivers through taxi and PLB trade organisations, some designated LPG gas filling stations and the TD's authorised agents. For the addresses and opening hours of the agents, please visit the TD's website (www.td.gov.hk), or call 2804 2600
 
     The TD reminded all taxi and PLB drivers that they are required to display driver identity plates when providing services. Those who fail to do so will be subject to a fine of $2,000.