The Transport Department on Wednesday said the operation of an electronic ticketing system for non-local drivers seeking a Hong Kong licence has been running smoothly since its implementation weeks ago.

Since January 12, 300 same-day e-tickets have been available online from 7am each working day.

The replacement of in-person ticket collection followed allegations that agents were abusing the system, causing long queues outside the department's Admiralty office.

A number of applicants were suspected of submitting false documents.

Anny Lo, a CEO at the department, said they are strictly reviewing applications.

"When we are reviewing all kinds of licence applications, we will definitely verify all application documents meticulously," she said.

"If there is any suspicious case, we will refer it to law enforcement agencies for follow up."

At present, applicants can either make an appointment in advance or obtain an online ticket, and Lo said the department is working on launching a comprehensive booking system.

It is also looking to roll out electronic platforms for about 10 of its less frequently used services, such as an increase in vehicle dimensions, and the use of floats in the Chinese New Year parade.

Another CEO, Arthur Ao, said currently, 28 licensing services can be dealt with online.

"The cost effectiveness is too low for some services. Some services only have a few applications year-round," he said.

"We will need to look into the cost effectiveness."

We will review the online system from time-to-time, and make necessary changes based on the public's feedback, he added.

Separately, Ao revealed that the department processed about three million licensing applications last year.

Applications for international driving permits was the most popular online service, followed by the renewal of full driving licences.

Since the department simplified the application for licence renewal in late 2024, such as by using artificial intelligence to verify documents and shorten the processing time from 10 working days to three, Au said the number of online applications surged from 153,000 that year, to 248,000 in 2025.