Assistant Commissioner for Transport Stephen Ip expects about 3,000 applications for the Personalised Vehicle Registration Marks Scheme will be processed a year, generating about $70 million to help those in need.

Speaking on a radio talk show, Mr Ip said the scheme, to be launched on April 1, will enable car owners to choose their own vehicle registration numbers. The department plans to invite the first batch of applications on March 31. Starting from that day, application forms and guidance notes will be available from the department's website.

Completed application forms must be submitted during the period from April 1 to 30. Mr Ip said 1,000 applications will be considered in the first exercise and the first auction of personalised vehicle registration marks will be held in September.

The panel for vetting applications will comprise representatives from the Police, Home Affairs and Transport Departments as well as unofficial members. Members should have good English-language skills and be well-versed in the local culture, he added.

Pre-Budget arrangement

He reminded motorists that special arrangements for vehicle and driving-licence renewals will be implemented to avoid the pre-Budget rush and to keep the number of applications at usual levels.

All vehicle licences eligible for renewal on or before Budget day on February 22 can be renewed at the present rate, whether for four months or 12 months, at any time up to and including June 21.

All full Hong Kong driving licences and driving instructor's licences eligible for renewal can be renewed at the present rate at any time up to and including June 21.