Following verification by the authorities, vehicles imported by authorized agents (commonly known as "official imports") must undergo type approval by the Transport Department. This process involves reviewing the vehicle's specifications, design, and construction, as well as inspecting the key functions of new vehicle models or types to ensure compliance with applicable regulations before sale and subsequent registration in Hong Kong. If a vehicle model or type meets the statutory requirements, the Transport Department issues a type approval certificate, which serves as proof of compliance. For parallel-imported vehicles, each individual vehicle must undergo inspection prior to registration and must also comply with the statutory requirements for vehicle registration.

Hong Kong regulations strictly mandate that all vehicle headlights comply with approved specifications. With the exception of tungsten-filament bulb assemblies, other lighting units (such as LED or laser) must bear internationally recognized markings - such as the EU E-Mark (or ECE) - as well as markings indicating the specific lamp type. Non-certified headlights will failure during the annual vehicle inspection. Key points regarding the E-Mark and headlight modifications are outlined below: Importance of the E-Mark: The E-Mark certifies that headlights comply with international safety standards, such as UN Regulations 148 and 149. Some "Grey Market" vehicles built to Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) specifications may lack this mark and could face rigorous scrutiny during inspections. Regulations on LED modifications: Replacing traditional tungsten-filament bulbs with LEDs is not permitted; the designs of tungsten and LED assemblies is difference, and the lamp type markings sealed on the units would not match the original design. Regarding the conversion of left-hand drive (LHD) headlight beam patterns to right-hand drive (RHD): even if the beam pattern is adjusted to fit the RHD requirements, the markings on the unit remain inconsistent - indicating it is an LHD assembly - therefore rendering the headlight non-compliant with regulations.

To avoid lawsuit, the Association remind all members of the following:

If you decide to modify or alter your vehicle, please bear in mind these points:

1. You must be fully aware of the potential legal consequences of such modifications or alterations

2. If the modifications or alterations violate the law, you may face prosecution from the police;

3. You should consult your insurance company before carrying out any modifications or alterations;