Can I drive in Hong Kong with a UK licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
It depends on how long you stay. GOV.UK says: “If you are visiting, you can drive in Hong Kong with a valid UK driving licence for up to 12 months.” (FCDO travel advice for Hong Kong, GOV.UK, checked on 28 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
FCDO travel advice for Hong Kong: “Transport risks”
If you are visiting, you can drive in Hong Kong with a valid UK driving licence for up to 12 months.
If you are living in Hong Kong, see the Hong Kong SAR Transport Department for information on applying for a full or temporary driving licence.
Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an international driving permit. Check requirements with the car hire company before you travel.
Source: FCDO travel advice: Hong Kong (SAR of China) travel advice, page updated 1 April 2026, checked on 28 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
GOV.UK says:
You can get an IDP in person from certain shops that have PayPoint.
An IDP costs £5.50.
A 1926 or 1949 permit lasts for 12 months. A 1968 permit lasts for 3 years or until your UK driving licence expires, whichever comes first.
You must always have your driving licence with you, as well as your IDP.
Source: GOV.UK, Get an international driving permit (IDP) and Check if you need an IDP, checked on 28 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Canadian licence | Recommended | 28 October 2026 |
| Australian licence | It depends | 17 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 a UK photocard driving licence?
It depends on how long you stay. GOV.UK says: “If you are visiting, you can drive in Hong Kong with a valid UK driving licence for up to 12 months.” (FCDO travel advice for Hong Kong, GOV.UK, checked on 28 October 2026).
Can I drive in Hong Kong with my UK licence?
GOV.UK says: “If you are visiting, you can drive in Hong Kong with a valid UK driving licence for up to 12 months.”
Which international driving permit do I need for Hong Kong?
GOV.UK's international driving permit table does not list Hong Kong. GOV.UK says: “If the country you’re visiting is not included in the table, check with the embassy of the country you’re travelling to.”
Where do I get an international driving permit in the UK?
GOV.UK says: “You can get an IDP in person from certain shops that have PayPoint.” “An IDP costs £5.50.”
Where does this answer come from?
From the official travel advice of GOV.UK, read on 28 October 2026 and quoted word for word on this page. It is information, not legal advice.
Spotted a change? Tell us. Every country for a UK licence · Driving abroad: all licences.