Hong Kong Opens Ride-Hailing Licences: Uber, Didi Prepare Bids by October 30

Hong Kong’s Transport Department opened applications for ride-hailing platform licences on August 28, with a deadline of noon on October 30. Uber and Didi said they are preparing applications. The move formalises a sector that has operated without dedicated legislation since Uber entered the market in 2014. Annual licence fees are set at HK$1.2 million (approximately USD $153,000).

What applicants must prove

Companies applying for a platform licence must be registered in Hong Kong and maintain a permanent office with executive personnel. Applicants must demonstrate operational scale by showing lawful operation in a city with a population of 7.5 million or above, and a daily average of 100,000 or more ride-hailing orders in at least two cities.

Financial requirements are strict. Applicants need paid-up capital of no less than HK$50 million, bank deposits of at least HK$30 million, and credit facilities of at least HK$30 million. Companies must also file audited financial reports for the past three years.

Uber and Didi signal intent

Uber told Hong Kong Free Press on Friday it is “preparing our application for a ride-hailing platform license with a firm commitment to delivering a safe, high-quality experience.” Didi told local media it welcomed the government’s announcement and would submit its application “as soon as possible.” Both companies have operated ride-hailing services in Hong Kong since 2014 and 2018 respectively, but without formal licensing.

How the regulatory framework works

The Road Traffic Amendment Ordinance passed in October 2025, with most provisions taking effect on August 3, 2026. Licences are valid for up to five years. An assessment committee comprising representatives from the Transport and Logistics Bureau, Digital Policy Office, and Transport Department will evaluate applications and make recommendations to the Commissioner for Transport. Ride-hailing drivers must also hold a specific licence, with applications for the written test already open and licences due from November.

Why regulation matters now

Ride-hailing platforms have grown rapidly as public frustration with Hong Kong’s conventional taxi fleet mounted. The new regime requires platforms, vehicles, and drivers to obtain relevant licences and permits, offering the public safe and compliant point-to-point transport options. The government is also developing a ride-hailing vehicle data management system to receive operational data in real time for regulatory oversight.

Final Thoughts

Hong Kong’s formal licensing regime for ride-hailing ends years of legal uncertainty. With Uber and Didi preparing applications and a HK$1.2 million annual fee, the market is set to consolidate under regulated operators by late 2026.

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