Starting January 25, 2026, new road safety regulations make it mandatory for passengers to buckle up on most public transport vehicles in Hong Kong. To ensure your safety and avoid heavy penalties, please take note of the following updates:
π‘οΈ What You Need to Know
Mandatory Requirement: If your seat is equipped with a seat belt, you must wear it. This now applies to:
Franchised Buses (KMB, Citybus, etc.)
Public & Private Minibuses
Non-franchised Coaches & School Buses
The Law: It is the passenger’s individual responsibility to ensure they are buckled up. Drivers are not legally required to check every passenger but may refuse to start the journey if someone is unbuckled.
Safety First: Wearing a seat belt reduces the risk of serious injury or death in an accident by up to 70%.
β οΈ Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to wear a seat belt where one is provided can result in:
Maximum Fine: HK$5,000
Imprisonment: Up to 3 months
π‘ Quick Tips for your Commute
Check your seat: Upon sitting down, look for the seat belt. Most newer buses and retrofitted upper-deck seats now feature them.
One belt, one person: Do not share seat belts. Children who can sit upright should use their own seat and belt.
Listen for reminders: You will hear increased announcements and see new signage on buses to help you stay compliant.