The age limit for private vehicles used for ride-hailing in Hong Kong will be relaxed from seven to 12 years to attract more part-time drivers under coming rules, the Post has learned, while a government source has said a proposed regulatory framework can address a recent rise in illegal services.

A source said the legal framework proposed by transport authorities to regulate ride-hailing services was approved by the Executive Council, the city’s top decision-making body, in a special meeting on Thursday.

The Post learned that during the meeting, authorities amended the previously proposed age limit for private cars used for ride-hailing services, as such vehicles already need to undergo annual inspections.

The lower threshold would also make it easier for part-time drivers to join the industry, the source said.

“Changing the age limit from seven to 12 years old is actually a natural extension. Twelve means some flexibility to enter,” a separate government source said.

The insider said the original idea was to start at seven years and allow for annual renewals until a vehicle reached 12 years.