Can private cars pass through the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge?
4 Answers
Private cars cannot pass through the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Below is relevant information about the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge: 1. Introduction: The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge is a bridge-tunnel system in China connecting Hong Kong, Zhuhai in Guangdong, and Macao. Located in the Lingdingyang area of the Pearl River Estuary in Guangdong Province, it is renowned worldwide for its massive scale, unprecedented construction challenges, and cutting-edge building technology. The bridge spans 55 kilometers, with the main bridge section being 29.6 kilometers and the section from the Hong Kong port to the Zhuhai-Macao port measuring 41.6 kilometers. The bridge deck is a six-lane, dual-direction expressway with a design speed of 100 kilometers per hour. 2. Permitted vehicles: The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge allows five types of vehicles to pass, including cross-border buses, shuttle buses, cross-border taxis, cross-border freight vehicles, and cross-border private cars.
Private cars are allowed to cross the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, but special qualifications are required, such as a Guangdong-Hong Kong or Guangdong-Macao license plate, or a one-time crossing permit. I drove to Hong Kong last month and applied for a Guangdong-Hong Kong license plate two weeks in advance. The process was quite cumbersome, requiring vehicle documentation, identification, and an online application. The inspection at the bridge was strict—any missing documents would result in being turned away. The cost was also high, with tolls and license plate application fees totaling over 1,000 RMB. The advantage is the convenience and speed of self-driving, plus the stunning bridge views and time saved from detours. However, I recommend that ordinary travelers check the requirements beforehand—if you don’t qualify, it’s better to opt for cross-border buses or taxis for a hassle-free trip.
As a road trip enthusiast, I think the opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge to private cars is a great experience, but the condition is that you must apply for a Guangdong-Hong Kong or Guangdong-Macao license plate. My family and I tried driving there last year. The application process needs to be done in advance, requiring submissions to the authorities of both regions, including the owner's information and vehicle registration certificate. The bridge is incredibly long, and driving across it feels exhilarating, with stunning sea views along the way, saving time when traveling from Zhuhai to Hong Kong. However, it's important to note that the toll fees and daily maintenance are not cheap—a one-way crossing costs several hundred yuan. If you don't plan to visit frequently, applying for a temporary one-time pass might be rejected, making public buses a more cost-effective, safe, and relaxed option. I recommend travelers compare more options when planning their trips.
The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge allows private vehicles to pass, but they must hold cross-border license plates such as Guangdong-Hong Kong or Guangdong-Macao plates. Without these, you cannot drive directly onto the bridge. A friend of mine once tried to cross without applying for the proper license and was turned back, making the trip for nothing. The policy is in place to control traffic flow and ensure safety, preventing congestion. For ordinary people who want to drive across the bridge, they need to complete the necessary procedures through the official website or authorized service points, which can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The bridge is designed with advanced technology, providing a smooth driving experience, but it's crucial to follow the rules.
