There are a significant number of illegal taxi drivers in Hong Kong at the moment. This is a result of many owners having to take unpayed leave from their day jobs.

-- How do you spot an illegal? The taxi does not have the permit with the drivers photo on the dashboard. Do make an attempt to check on this before you get in.

-- So what? Illegal taxi drivers are not insured to drive public transportation. If the taxi gets into an accident, don't have any hopes of getting compensated from the insurance company for any damages, as a pasenger or an involved party in the accident.