The Transport Department said today it has enhanced the Taxi Written Test, effective from November 3, to encourage newcomers to join the taxi industry.

The new written test comprises Part A, on taxi operations, and Part B, on the Road Users’ Code.

Part A will include new questions relating to new measures introduced to enhance service quality, such as the taxi fleet regime and the Taxi-Driver-Offence Points system.

The questions on prominent locations and route identification have been substantially reduced and simplified in consideration of the development of navigation technology, the department said.

Part B will test knowledge of road traffic regulations and safe driving.

The test is conducted in the form of multiple-choice questions, and the total number of questions has been adjusted from 90 to 75, while the passing criteria and time allowed for each part remain unchanged.

To score an overall pass result, a candidate must meet the passing criteria in both Parts A and B.

The department said the enhanced test will better align with the practical needs of the taxi trade while maintaining a high level of assessment, ensuring that taxi drivers possess the necessary professional knowledge and qualities.

It added that it hopes more newcomers will be attracted to join the taxi industry in order to foster the trade’s healthy development in the long run.

Furthermore, following the passage of a bill on ride-hailing services, taxi driving licence holders can apply for a ride-hailing vehicle driving permit in future without having to sit an additional test.

The department has issued letters to the taxi trade introducing the scope of the new test, and distributed the updated “Guide to Taxi Written Test” and “Taxi Operation Booklet” to candidates concerned.

Candidates can refer to the department’s website and book a Taxi Written Test online via GovHK.