On this page
Requirements for Foreigners to Drive in China
An international driving license is not valid in China. Any foreign national driving in the country must obtain a Chinese driving license, which comes in two forms: a temporary license for tourists and a long-term license for foreign residing and working in China for an extended period.
The relevant application regulations and temporary entry regulations in Beijing and Shanghai are attached here for reference:
Eligibility
- Age Requirement: You must be between 18 and 70 years old.
- Valid Foreign Driver’s License: You must hold a valid driver’s license from your home country.
- Visa Requirement: You need to have a valid visa that allows you to stay in China.
Required Documents
- Passport: Original and a copy of the information page.
- Visa: Original and a copy of the visa page.
- Foreign Driver’s License: Original and a translated copy in Chinese. The translation must be notarized.
- Medical Certificate: Some regions may require a health check from a designated hospital.
- Photos: Passport-sized photos (usually 2-4), conforming to Chinese specifications.
- Application Form: Completed application form for a temporary driver's license, which can be obtained at the local Vehicle Management Office.
Notes for Foreign Tourists Applying for a Temporary Driving License
The responsible authority is the vehicle management office (VMO, 车管所, Che Guan Suo), with locations varying by city. Some cities offer convenient processing points at airports or ports of entry, while others require visiting a specific VMO.
Application Process
- Translation and Notarization: Get your foreign driver’s license translated into Chinese and notarized. This can be done at a notary public office in China.
- Medical Check: If required, visit a designated hospital for a medical examination and obtain a health certificate.
- Visit the Vehicle Management Office: Go to the local Vehicle Management Office with all the required documents.
- Submit Documents: Submit your application form along with all the required documents.
- Take a Test: In some areas, you may need to pass a written test on Chinese traffic laws. Study materials are often available in English.
- Pay Fees: Pay the necessary application and processing fees.
- Receive the License: If all requirements are met and you pass the test (if required), you will be issued a temporary driver's license, usually valid for up to 3 months.
How to Apply for a Temporary Driver’s License at the Airport
This is the most convenient way to handle it at present. Take Beijing Capital International Airport as an example:
There is a vehicle management service station in Terminal 3 of Capital International Airport
- You can apply with a one-inch ID photo with a white background, a passport and a driver’s license of the country where you are located.
- There is a camera on the 3rd floor near the H17 counter to take photos with a white background.
- The first aid station on the second floor of the airport can apply for a health certificate.
It is recommended that tourists call in advance based on their city of entry (note that English service may not be available). Search for "city name + VMO phone number".
We recommend purchasing our membership service, which can not only help customize your travel itinerary in China but also provide 1V1 online guide services. For matters like driving licenses, entry, and internet access, we will inquire about the necessary documents and procedures in advance based on your city of entry, saving you time and effort.
Notes for Foreigners Renting a Car
Recommended Car Rental Platforms:
- Shenzhou Car Rental (神州租车)
- Yihai Car Rental (一嗨租车)
Yihai provides English version website
Both are self-operated platforms where you can easily rent a car after obtaining a temporary license by uploading your passport and driving license. These platforms have pick-up and return points in many cities and allow for one-way rentals.
You can download the APP to use, like shopping at a convenience store, with the freedom to choose the car type and rental period. As there is no English version, if you need assistance with booking, consider our membership service.
