Driving in the UK
International Driving Permit (IDP)
If you are Hong Kong resident holding a Hong Kong full driving licence and wish to drive abroad, you may apply for issue of an International Driving Permit (IDP). You should complete an application form TD51 (https://www.td.gov.hk/filemanager/common/td51(2017.05)_e-fillable_eng.pdf) and submit it to any licensing office together with two identical, new and recent photographs and the required fee. The permit will be issued to you if you are a resident in Hong Kong and hold a valid Hong Kong full driving licence. Please note that the permit is valid for one year from the date of issue.
IDP is issued in accordance with the 1949 Convention. The permit should be valid for driving in the territory of all the contracting countries/places [please see the application form TD51]. But there may be differences or changes in the policy or conditions of using an IDP to drive the contracting countries/places concerned, applicants are suggested to make enquires to the Consulates or resident offices of the countries/places concerned for details before making application for an IDP or before driving in the countries/places concerned.
You should also submit original or photocopy of proof of present address (residential address and correspondence address).
You may book an appointment through Transport Department's Appointment Booking Service online by logging on to www.gov.hk/idpabs or by calling the hotline at 3763 8080 to apply for an International Driving Permit at the designated counter of the selected Licensing Office.
For enquiry about the required fee, you may make enquiries at the enquiry counters of licensing offices or through 1823 Call Centre, refer to the licence fees table (TD341) at the licensing offices, or visit Transport Department's website for information.
Exchange a foreign driving licence
Use this tool to find out how to exchange your non-British driving licence for a British licence.
https://www.gov.uk/exchange-foreign-driving-licence
It’s taking longer than usual to process applications because of coronavirus (COVID-19).
There’s a different process if you want to get a Northern Ireland driving licence (https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/exchanging-your-foreign-driving-licence#toc-0).