Overview
The Part A Test (Written Test) is the computerised theory test run by the Hong Kong Transport Department. It is the first test in the driving test for a private car, light goods vehicle, motor cycle or motor tricycle. The road test appointment for a private car or light goods vehicle is allotted on the day the written test is passed.
The Transport Department also runs a separate Taxi Written Test and a Taxi and Ride-hailing Vehicle Combined Written Test. This page covers Part A only.
Who can apply
For the private car, light goods vehicle, motor cycle and motor tricycle driving tests, you must:
be at least 18 years old;
be physically fit to drive, as set out in the regulations referred to on the application form (TD 82);
attend a driving ability assessment first, if you have a physical disability that requires one.
Exam pattern
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Questions | 20 |
| Format | Multiple choice, one answer from three options |
| Pass mark | 16 or more correct |
| Time | 20 minutes |
| Language on screen | Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese or English |
Candidates with special needs can ask in writing for an audio version, with soundtracks in Cantonese, Putonghua or English, before buying the driving test form. It is still 20 minutes. Candidates who understand neither Chinese nor English can ask in writing for an oral test through a government-recognised interpreter, whom they must hire and pay for. That paper test lasts 40 minutes.
Syllabus
Questions are mainly drawn from the Road Users' Code, which is given to first-time applicants for a learner's driving licence or a driving test. The test also covers later changes in road traffic law, driving rules and information, which the department publishes as supplementary sheets.
The department's July 2026 supplementary sheet applies to candidates whose Part A Test is on or after 11 September 2026. The Road Users' Code version it lists is June 2020.
Fees
According to the Transport Department's 2026 fee schedule, the fee for a driving test is HK$510. A test form is valid for 18 months and covers all parts of the test within that period. It stops being valid if you fail any part or miss a test, and you then need a new form.
How to apply
Apply online through GovHK Online Booking for Driving Tests, by post to the Kowloon Licensing Office, or in person or through an agent at the Hong Kong or Kowloon Licensing Office, using form TD 82.
After checking, the department gives you an appointment letter with the date and venue of your written test.
Bring your identity document (Hong Kong identity card, or passport or valid travel document for non-residents), any valid full driving licence, and the appointment letter.
The written test centre is on the 2nd floor of Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon. Switch off mobile phones and any device with an alarm, including smart watches.
After the exam
At the end of the test, follow the on-screen instructions to collect your result. A road test is allotted on the date you pass the written test, at an end-of-list appointment in the region you chose. Motor cycle and motor tricycle applicants follow a longer route: Part A, then a Part B competence test arranged by a designated driving school, then a Part C road test within two years of Part B.
If you cannot attend a test, you must give the Commissioner for Transport seven clear days' notice to keep your test form valid.
Note
Waiting times for test appointments change with demand. Check the Transport Department's waiting-time page before you choose how to apply.
FAQs
Can I take the written test in English?
Yes. You choose Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese or English on the computer screen at the start of the test.
How many questions do I need to get right?
16 out of 20 within 20 minutes.
Do I need a learner's driving licence before the written test?
For private car and light goods vehicle tests, no. You can apply for the test first and get a learner's licence later when you plan your on-road practice. For motor cycles you need a Part C road test appointment before applying for a learner's licence.