Converting overseas license to HK license

[Sblue6622]

Hi

Looking to move to Hong Kong soon and was reading up on the license conversion requirements for Hong Kong. Luckily I can do a straight swap as I come from the list of approved countries. (AUS)

Just one question to make sure. It says: must be obtained through passing of driving test held in the issuing country or place. I'm assuming thats for a country and not a state. I've converted my license from one state to another (Australia). Am I correct that this won't cause a problem? or do I need a license from the state I did my test in?

Also do I need anything else like a license history document or something?

Thanks

[emx]

You need to bring your HKID card, your current Oz license and HK proof of address.

I think the fee is HKD$900? It has been many moons since I changed over mine.

[mrgoodkat]

I'm sure that also means individual states, like in the US, but if I remember correctly they didn't ask for any proof that you've gotten the license by doing a test.

When signing the application form you declare that "I am in possession of the overseas/PRC driving licence or certificate as stated in Part B and have successfully completed a test of competence to drive theclass(es) of motor vehicle(s) concerned conducted by or on behalf of the competent authority which issued my certificate or licence, and that my overseas/PRC driving licence has not been suspended or cancelled. The licence that I am applying for has not been suspended or cancelled and that I am notdisqualified from holding or obtaining such licence."

Seems to mean that you passed a test in the actual jurisdiction that issued your license.
You only need to bring a driving history if your license doesn't show when it was issued first, since you must have had it for more than 5 years.

[Cornmeal]

Seems to mean that you passed a test in the actual jurisdiction that issued your license.
You only need to bring a driving history if your license doesn't show when it was issued first, since you must have had it for more than 5 years.

Didn't request this for mine and it doesn't indicate 1st issuance since it was also a conversion from my Korean licence. I don't think any licences indicate this?

They have no way of knowing and don't ask. I think you need proof of addresss from the issuing country but you'll need that to open a bank account here as well.

[Sblue6622]

Thanks for the replies. Good to know this info. I suppose I will be fine if I just bring passport. Hope it goes smoothly. Can't imagine living in HK without a motorcycle at least.

[chingleutsch]

One thing to note is that for Australian licence holders they assume that every state is the same as NSW - my Qld licence allowed me to drive LCVs up to the same tonnage as an 8 seat passenger vehicle and small machinery (such as a ride-on mower). But the DMT said HK class 1 = NSW class 1, so no van driving for me here, even if I wanted to.

[mrgoodkat]

such as a ride-on mower

I'd be pissed too if I couldn't drive my ride-on mower through Central.