Driving licences will be valid for 10 years instead of three. Motorists said they were happy with the 'first cut in driving expenses and red tape in years'. Until now, drivers had a licence option of one year at $288 or three years at $864, including levies to the Traffic Accident Assistance Scheme. The new 10-year licence for everyone under 60 will cost $900, including the levies. Other road taxes remain unchanged. The Transport Department said the 10-year move would reduce the strain on licence processing resources and inconvenience to holders. Renewal reminders will be sent out automatically. Mr Tsang labelled the move 'good value for money' for drivers, and the people at the wheel had little argument yesterday. Environmental consultant Dr David Green, who drives daily to conduct field work, said although the reduction in fees was negligible compared with general on-road costs, drivers would welcome the convenience. But the move will not reduce the $25,000 a year the average driver pays to keep their vehicle on the road. Hong Kong Automobile Association chief executive Kendy Chan Kin-chung said on-road taxes are still heavy to encourage motorists to take public transport. A department spokesman said the licences should be introduced by mid-year.
