A demerit points system for taxi drivers will take effect on 22 September

13/9/2024 6:09

        The "Taxi Drivers' Demerit Points Ordinance" will come into effect on the 22 September to introduce a demerit point system for taxi drivers. The Transport Department said that the purpose is to strengthen the deterrent effect on taxi drivers' improper behavior, crack down on the bad apples in the industry, and improve the quality of taxi drivers, its service quality and industry image.
        
        Taxi drivers who commit 11 offenses under current laws will be demerited, including overcharging, refusing to take passengers or driving around longer routes. The offenses will be divided into three levels according to their severity, with 10 points, 5 points or 3 points respectively. If a driver receives 10 points or more within two years, they will be forced to attend taxi service improvement courses. If they fail to attend the class without reasonable excuse, they may be fined or even imprisoned. If they receive 15 or more points within two years, they will be disqualified from driving a taxi. The license will be suspended for 3 months for the first offense and half a year for the second offense.