What Changed
- Proposal to lower the medical certificate age threshold for commercial vehicle drivers from 70 to 65, with reduced licence validity of 1 to 3 years depending on age.
- Formulation of standardized physical fitness assessment guidelines taking approximately 30 minutes, supported by planned eHealth digital certificate transmission.
- Implementation of relief measures, including Elderly Health Care Voucher eligibility, priority access to free health checks, and a three-year recovery window for licence renewal without re-testing.
Commercial vehicle (CV) drivers, transport operators, and healthcare providers in Hong Kong SAR face proposed regulatory updates aimed at enhancing road safety through earlier physical fitness certification. In a written response to the Legislative Council on October 7, 2026, the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, outlined the Government's recommendations regarding physical fitness requirements for driving licence holders.
Under proposed amendments to the Road Traffic (Driving Licences) Regulations (Cap. 374B), the age threshold requiring CV drivers to submit medical examination certificates will be lowered from 70 to 65. The validity period of full licences for drivers aged 65 and older will also be shortened: applicants aged 65 to 67 will be issued licences valid for three years; those aged 68 to 69 for two years; and those aged 70 or above for one year. The proposal also introduces new statutory conditions rendering individuals medically unfit to operate CVs. Drivers previously assessed as unfit who recover within three years of licence expiry can renew their CV licence upon submitting a valid medical certificate, avoiding the need to retake a driving test.
To standardize assessments, the Transport Department (TD) is formulating guidelines covering visual acuity, visual field, hearing, and specific medical conditions. A trial assessment conducted in late 2025 demonstrated that checks take approximately 30 minutes. To support affected drivers, the Government is exploring eHealth integration for digital submission of certificates, permitting eligible drivers aged 65 or above to use Elderly Health Care Vouchers for assessment fees, and prioritizing drivers aged 65 or above for free check-ups under the TD’s Safe Driving and Health Campaign. Government statistics indicate that as of late August 2026, approximately 55,000 CV licence holders were aged 70 or above, representing around 15 per cent of all CV licence holders in Hong Kong SAR.
Who May Be Affected
Commercial vehicle drivers aged 65 and older, medical practitioners, transport operating companies, and primary healthcare networks in Hong Kong SAR.
Cross-Border Context
Relevant to domestic and cross-boundary commercial transport operators employing Hong Kong SAR-licensed drivers who meet the new age and fitness criteria.
What to check next
- Track formal legislative filings and gazettal regarding amendments to the Road Traffic (Driving Licences) Regulations (Cap. 374B).
- Monitor Transport Department announcements on the publication of finalized physical fitness assessment guidelines and eHealth Doctor Search integrations.
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult the official text and obtain advice appropriate to your circumstances where needed.