Can Private Cars Drive on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge?
3 Answers
Private cars are temporarily not allowed to drive on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. The types of vehicles permitted on the bridge include cross-border taxis, freight vehicles, cross-border buses, shuttle buses, and cross-border private cars. Below are the relevant details: 1. Regulations: The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Authority has issued the "Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Traffic Guide," which provides detailed information on the bridge route, vehicle access, customs clearance at the three ports, toll charges, safety measures, and supporting services. 2. Cross-border private cars: The quotas for Hong Kong and Macao cross-border private cars are 300 (valid for three years) and 600 (valid for one year) respectively. Private cars with quotas can enter and exit the urban areas of Hong Kong and Macao multiple times within the validity period.
I often drive for long-distance trips, and driving on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is definitely feasible, but you need to sort out some formalities first. You have to apply for a Guangdong Z or Macao special license plate because regular mainland plates can't directly go to Hong Kong or Macao. You also need to prepare your Hong Kong and Macao travel permit and vehicle documents in advance. I drove there last summer, and the scenery on the bridge was amazing—the ride was smooth, but the speed limit is under 100 km/h, and there are many cameras, so be careful not to speed. The toll is quite reasonable, around 150 RMB for a one-way trip, and you can pay with ETC. The key issue is heavy traffic during peak hours, so I recommend choosing a weekday or a non-holiday morning to depart to avoid wasting time. It's best to pack some snacks and water in the car since service areas are far apart, and you can grab a bite if you get hungry. Remember to check your tires and brakes before departure—the bridge can be slippery due to sea winds, so safety comes first.
I've been driving for decades and know the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge situation very well. Private cars can access the bridge, provided the vehicle has a Guangdong-Hong Kong or Guangdong-Macao cross-border license plate, which is equivalent to a special permit. Applications must go through official channels, and fees and procedures can be found online. Additionally, drivers must have a valid Hong Kong and Macao travel permit with proper endorsements—without these, you won't even get past the gate. Last time I drove across, I noticed strict management: full CCTV surveillance, speed limits capped at 100 km/h (applies to all vehicles). Toll fees vary for cars and trucks, with private cars paying around 150 yuan per trip. Safety-wise, slow down in high winds—the bridge's height makes it prone to swaying. Visibility is great, but don’t get distracted taking photos. Always check the weather; avoid typhoon days. Set your GPS route in advance. For the return trip, be prepared for long queues at Hong Kong/Macao exit customs—patience is key.
