The Transport Department will again adopt special arrangements for vehicle and driving-licence renewals during the three-day run up to next month's Budget address.

The arrangements have proven successful over the last two years and have been well received by the public.

The special arrangements are:

* All vehicle licences eligible for renewal on or before Budget day (March 5), that is, vehicles that are registered at the time of renewal and with licence expiry dates falling on or before July 4, can be renewed at the present rate, whether for four or 12 months, at any time up to and including July 4; and,

* All full Hong Kong driving licences and driving instructor's licences eligible for renewal on or before Budget day, that is, those with expiry dates falling on or before July 4, and those which have expired for less than three years at the time of renewal up to July 4, can be renewed at the present rate at any time up to and including July 4.

The arrangement applies only to the renewal of expiring and expired vehicle licences, full driving licences and driving instructor's licences. It does not apply to any other licensing services.

There is no need for eligible licence holders to rush to renew their licences in speculation that the Budget may see fees increased. The arrangement is to deal with long queues.

Applications for vehicle and driving-licence renewals can be made on-line, through personal computers and public kiosks under the Electronic Service Delivery scheme. Applications may also be made by post. The public is encouraged to renew their licences through these channels.