TAIPEI (Taiwan News) —  Taiwan will roll out new transportation rules on Jan. 1, covering senior driver incentives, tour bus safety requirements, and changes to international postal and cruise services.

Drivers aged 70 and above who voluntarily surrender their licenses can receive Tpass ride credits, with a 50% rebate on electronic fares for public transportation over two years, per UDN. Eligible transit includes buses, trains, metro systems, ferries, taxis, and public bicycles, with a monthly cap of NT$1,500 (US$47).

All 13,000 tour buses nationwide must install driver identification devices starting next year, with a maximum subsidy of NT$2,000 per vehicle. The system links to a highway authority platform to monitor driver hours and prevent fatigue, while operators failing to comply after guidance may face fines of NT$9,000.

The ministry said the mandatory installation of driver identification equipment is intended to strengthen tour bus management. The devices must be kept in proper working condition and transmit driver information to the designated platform, enabling highway authorities to clearly identify drivers and monitor driving hours to ensure road safety.

In line with Universal Postal Union policies, international registered small parcels will no longer require recipient signatures or written inquiry services starting Jan. 1, except for shipments to China. Compensation for loss, theft, or damage and parcel tracking will continue, and a NT$10 postage rebate per item will be offered during the Jan. 1–March 31 transitional period.

In addition, international cruise operators using Taiwan as a home port must establish a local subsidiary or appoint a Taiwanese shipping agent to handle passenger operations. In cases of consumer disputes, the Maritime and Port Bureau and Tourism Administration will oversee cruise operators and travel agencies to protect consumer rights.