Can I drive in Hong Kong with an Australian licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
It depends on how long you stay. Smartraveller says: “You may be able to drive in Hong Kong for up to 12 months with your current Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted) or International Driving Permit (IDP).” (Smartraveller advice for Hong Kong, checked on 17 October 2026).
Rules change, and car hire companies can ask for more than the law. We quote the official travel advice word for word, with its date; this is information, not legal advice. If you are unsure, ask the embassy of the country you are visiting, your car hire company or your travel insurer before you travel.
What the official source says
Smartraveller advice for Hong Kong: “Local travel” › “Driving permit”
You may be able to drive in Hong Kong for up to 12 months with your current Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted) or International Driving Permit (IDP).
If you're residing in Hong Kong, only drive using a Hong Kong driver's licence.
Source: Smartraveller: Hong Kong, page updated 30 July 2026, “still current at” 17 October 2026 (Australian time), checked on 17 October 2026. Quoted word for word; we show only the sentences about driving licences and permits.
What to bring and where to get an IDP
Smartraveller says (in its advice for Vietnam):
Fraudulent websites may claim to issue valid IDPs.
The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and its member clubs are the only authorised distributors of IDPs for Australian licence holders.
Source: Smartraveller: Vietnam, checked on 17 October 2026.
Hire a car in Hong Kong
Hiring a car in Hong Kong? Compare rental companies and prices on DiscoverCars. Check the licence and IDP rules above before you book: the rental desk can refuse your booking without the right permit.
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Other licences in Hong Kong
| Licence | In Hong Kong | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| UK licence | It depends | 28 October 2026 |
| Canadian licence | Recommended | 28 October 2026 |
Before you travel to Hong Kong
- British passport: Hong Kong entry requirements
- Canadian passport: Hong Kong
- Australian passport: Hong Kong
- Italian citizens: Hong Kong
Questions
Do I need an international driving permit for Hong Kong with an Australian driver's licence?
It depends on how long you stay. Smartraveller says: “You may be able to drive in Hong Kong for up to 12 months with your current Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted) or International Driving Permit (IDP).” (Smartraveller advice for Hong Kong, checked on 17 October 2026).
Can I drive in Hong Kong with my Australian licence?
Smartraveller says: “You may be able to drive in Hong Kong for up to 12 months with your current Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted) or International Driving Permit (IDP).”
Which international driving permit do I need for Hong Kong?
The Smartraveller advice for Hong Kong does not say which convention (1926, 1949 or 1968) the permit must follow.
Where do I get an international driving permit in Australia?
Smartraveller says: “The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) and its member clubs are the only authorised distributors of IDPs for Australian licence holders.”
Where does this answer come from?
From the official travel advice of Smartraveller, read on 17 October 2026 and quoted word for word on this page. It is information, not legal advice.
Spotted a change? Tell us. Every country for an Australian licence · Driving abroad: all licences.