White card is a term used to describe citizen-owned automobiles in Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of two Special Administrative Regions of the People's Republic of China , the other being Macau. A city-state situated on China's south coast and enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea, it is renowned for its expansive skyline and deep natural harbour...

 that are used as illegal unlicensed taxis

Taxicabs of Hong Kong

Taxicabs of Hong Kong provide a taxi system. Most taxis are independently owned and operated, but some are owned by taxi companies, and the drivers are employees....

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History

The term has been used since the 1950s, when there was a shortage of public transportation

Transport in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has a highly developed and sophisticated transport network, encompassing both public and private transport. Over 90% of the daily journeys are on public transport, making it the highest rate in the world....

. In the 1950s, Hong Kong taxis were limited in numbers. People started their own illegal businesses, and operated without any licenses or government regulation. The term "White card" is used to describe a fake taxi license. The term is still in use in rural areas where there is no taxi service.