New Regulations in Hong Kong: Easing Restrictions on the Installation of Video Displays and Data Display

With the continuous advancement of technology, video displays are being increasingly used in vehicles. To adapt to this trend, the Hong Kong Transport Department has implemented new regulations effective March 1, 2025, easing restrictions on the installation of video displays and the types of data that can be shown.

In recent years, the variety of information that can be displayed on video screens has expanded significantly, including functionalities such as sending and receiving messages, video streaming, and more. Additionally, a growing number of drivers are using driving-related apps to access information on navigation, real-time traffic conditions, electric vehicle charging stations, and parking facilities.

To keep pace with these developments, the Hong Kong Transport Department has reviewed international practices and considered Hong Kong’s road traffic conditions and technological progress before deciding to amend the relevant regulations.

Reference to United Nations Regulation R125 on Forward Visibility:

Does Regulation R125 on driver’s forward visibility allow Head-Up Displays (HUDs) to play movies?

Effective Date

According to the amended Road Traffic (Vehicle Construction and Maintenance) Regulations, the new rules will come into full effect on March 1, 2025. The revision aims to regulate the use of video displays while ensuring driving safety.

New Regulation Requirements

1, Display Restrictions for Video Displays.

Under the new regulations, when a vehicle’s parking brake (handbrake) is engaged, there will be no restrictions on the type of data that can be displayed by video displays installed or located in the following positions:

l Anywhere in front of the driver’s seat;

l Any location where the driver, while seated, can see - whether directly or via reflection - part or all of the screen of the video display;

l Any location where the driver, while seated, can access the controls of the video display - excluding volume control and power switches.

This means that when the parking brake is applied, screens (including instrument clusters and head-up displays) are permitted to show content unrelated to driving, such as movies, TV series, music videos, etc.

2, Permissible Content for Vehicle Owners

Vehicle owners may install video displays in accordance with the above requirements to show any type of data except the following:

l Information regarding the current status of the vehicle or its equipment;

l Real-time closed-circuit views (e.g., 360 surround view) of any part of the vehicle or its immediate surroundings;

l Data related to the current location of the vehicle;

l Any other data intended solely for navigation purposes.

Before installing or modifying any video display system, owners should consult with their vehicle agent or a professional to ensure compliance with the new rules. Video displays must meet all the above requirements to pass the pre-registration inspection or annual vehicle examination.

The implementation of these new regulations aims to keep pace with technological advancements while ensuring driving safety. Vehicle owners must strictly adhere to the rules when installing video displays to ensure full compliance. Through these measures, the Hong Kong Transport Department seeks to better regulate the use of in-vehicle video displays and enhance road safety.

https://www.elegislation.gov.hk/hk/cap374A