Can foreigners drive in China?
Yes, foreigners can drive in China, but not with a home-country license or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Unlike in countries such as the US, UK, and Greece, China doesn’t follow international driving conventions. To drive legally in China, you must apply for a temporary or permanent license, depending on how long you stay. Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan licences count as "overseas" licences, so holders can apply too.
Can you use an International Driving Permit in China?
No, you cannot use an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in mainland China. China does not recognise IDPs as valid authorisation to drive, so foreign visitors generally need a temporary Chinese driving permit or must meet the requirements for a Chinese driving licence. Hong Kong and Macao have separate driving regulations, and local authorities may accept valid foreign IDPs subject to their requirements.
Do you need a Chinese driving license?
Yes. If you want to drive in mainland China, you need a valid Chinese driving authorisation. The type of permit you need depends on your circumstances and how long you intend to stay.
Temporary driving permit
Foreign visitors can apply for a temporary driving permit to drive in China during a short stay. It is generally valid for three months for stays of up to three months. If your permitted stay exceeds three months, you may extend its validity up to a maximum of one year. You can use this permit to drive eligible rental cars, subject to the permit's vehicle restrictions.
Full Chinese driving license
If you plan to live in China long-term, you may need to apply for a full Chinese driving license rather than rely on a temporary permit. The application requirements depend on your circumstances and the local traffic authority's rules. You may need to provide your existing foreign driving license and a Chinese translation, identification and residence documents, and pass a driving test where required
Are you eligible to apply for a Chinese driver's license?
Foreigners can apply to convert a valid foreign driver’s license into a Chinese driver's license through the local Vehicle Management Office (车管所), in accordance with regulations issued by Chinese authorities.
To apply, you must
Hold a valid foreign driver’s license
Be legally residing in China (with a visa or residence permit)
Provide a certified Chinese translation of your license
Pass a written theory test on Chinese traffic laws
Conversion is typically limited to standard car licenses (C1), while higher vehicle categories may require additional experience and are rarely granted to foreign applicants.
If the permitted driving type on a foreign driver's license has no corresponding vehicle type in China, you may need to downgrade and renew the license, and you may be required to take an exam.
Where to apply, based on your status:
If you hold a permanent residence permit, you can apply in the city where you reside
Short-term visa holders can apply in the location where they are registered with the police
If you don’t have a valid foreign license, you must enrol in a local driving school and obtain a license through the standard process.
Types of Chinese driver’s licenses available to foreigners
Chinese licenses for foreigners vary depending on whether you plan to drive a car, ride a motorcycle, or need a temporary permit for short‑term visits. Here’s a breakdown
License Type | Valid for | Typical use for foreigners | Notes |
Temporary (临时机动车驾驶许可) | Up to 90 days (extendable to 1 year) | Short-stay visa holders, tourists | Rental cars only — no ownership |
C1 | Small cars, SUVs, light trucks (<4,500 kg) | Most common license for daily driving | Covers standard sedans and small passenger cars |
E | Two‑wheeled motorcycles | For foreigners who want to ride motorbikes | Motorcycle use may be restricted in some city centres |
D | Ordinary three-wheel motorcycles (over 50cc / 50 km/h) | Less common, used in smaller cities or rural areas | Typically, for tricycles |
China C1 driving license official permitted vehicle categories
Chinese C1 driving license allows you to drive small manual and automatic cars. This includes
Small and micro passenger cars that can seat 9 people or fewer (including the driver).
Light and micro trucks, including low-weight cargo vehicles.
Light and micro special-operation vehicles, including modified light utility or service vehicles.
Getting a temporary (provisional) Chinese driving permit
To get a temporary Chinese driver's license, visit a local Motor Vehicle Administration Office (车管所 - Chēguǎnsuǒ). The driver’s license (临时机动车驾驶许可) is valid for up to 90 days and can be extended to a year, depending on your Chinese visa validity.
No Exam Required: The temporary driving license requires no written or driving exam.
Validity: The temporary driving license is typically valid for up to 90 days, but it cannot exceed your visa's validity.
Cost: A provisional driving permit costs around 10 CNY.
Unlike the permanent permit, this version allows you to drive only rental cars. When renting, the permit covers small cars (C1) or small automatics (C2); if you bring your own vehicle, it must match your foreign license category.
Note: You must keep your overseas driver's license and its Chinese translation, your Chinese temporary driving permit, and the car rental contract in the car while driving.
What do I need to apply for a temporary Chinese driver’s license?
Passport
Visa
A valid foreign driver’s license
A notarised Chinese translation of that license
Recent 3 one-inch white-background photos
Proof of temporary residence, such as a hotel booking.
Physical Condition Certificate, needed only for larger vehicle categories
Where do I need to go to get a temporary Chinese driver’s license?
You can get a temporary driving license in different Chinese districts at the locations below.
District | Location |
Shanghai | No. 1 Branch of Vehicle Administrative Office Address: 2999 West Huaxia Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai |
Beijing | Address: Gate No.7, 1F, Zone C, Terminal 3, Beijing Capital International Airport
Address: 100m (w) from the West Exit of Domestic Arrivals, Beijing Daxing International Airport |
Hainan | Temporary Entry Motor Vehicle Driver Management Service System (http://hnslsjs.cn/) |
Shenzhen | Shenzhen Motor Vehicle Administration Office (appointment required in advance) Address: No. 128 Longjing Road, Nanshan District, Shenzhen |
Hangzhou | Hangzhou Traffic Police Brigade Vehicle Management Office (No. 699 Gudun Road, Sandun Town, Xihu District, Hangzhou), Service Window in Hall 1. |
Guangzhou | Guangzhou Vehicle Administration Office, Cen Cun headquarters (1732 Huaguan Lu, Cen Cun, Tianhe District, Guangzhou) |
How much will obtaining a temporary Chinese driver’s license cost
It will cost about 300-400 RMB ($43–$57) to obtain a temporary Chinese driver's license. The total cost includes application, translation, notarisation, passport photo, and other miscellaneous fees. Here's a breakdown
Application fee: 10 RMB ($1.50)
Translation and notarisation costs: 250-300 RMB ($35–$43), depending on the language, number of documents, and delivery timeline.
Passport photo: 30–50 RMB ($4–$7)
Miscellaneous costs (copies, transport): 10–30 RMB ($1.50–$4)
The application process for a temporary license is generally straightforward for foreigners and often doesn’t require a driving test.
Documents required for a Chinese driver’s license application
Valid passport: Original and photocopy of the ID page and Chinese visa page.
Temporary residence registration form: Issued by the local police station or hotel where you are registered.
Foreigner’s residence permit or long‑term visa
Physical Condition Certificate: A medical examination from an authorised hospital in China (usually vision and reflex tests).
Existing driver’s license (if converting): Original permit from your home country plus a certified Chinese translation.
Application form for motor vehicle driving license: Completed at the local Vehicle Management Office (车管所).
Recent passport‑sized photos: Typically 3 one‑inch photos
Foreign license translation: Must be done by an officially recognised translation company in China.
Documents required — temporary vs permanent License
Document | Temporary License | Permanent License |
Valid passport (original + photocopy) | Required | Required |
Valid Chinese visa | Required | Required |
Foreign driver's license (original) | Required | Required |
Certified Chinese translation of your license | Required | Required |
Residence registration certificate | Required (hotel or police-issued) | Required (police-issued) |
Foreigner's residence permit | Not required | Required (1+ year stay) |
Medical / health check certificate | Optional (some categories) | Required |
Recent 1-inch passport photos (white background) | Required (4 photos) | Required (4 photos) |
Application form (completed at 车管所) | Required | Required |
Certified translation of your driver's license for China
If you are converting an existing foreign driver’s license to a Chinese license, you will need an official Chinese translation of your license. This certified driver’s license translation must be completed by a professional translator in China working with
The translator must provide a certification seal or statement verifying the translation's accuracy. This step ensures local authorities can accurately verify your driving credentials.
What the translation must include:
Full name as it appears on your foreign license
Date of birth
License category/vehicle class
Issue date and expiry date
Issuing country and authority
Any restrictions or endorsements on your license
In some provinces, you also need a Chinese notary office (公证处) signature, in addition to the certified translation. Check with your local Vehicle Administration Office (车管所 ) before submitting.
Translayte provides certified translations of driver's licenses, passports, and other documents that meet Chinese authorities' requirements. Our certified translations in China are easy to order, of high quality, and delivered on time. Request a free quote to estimate translation costs.
Step-by-step: how to get a permanent Chinese driver's license
To convert your foreign driver’s license in China, you must be a resident staying in China for more than three months and hold a valid residence permit. But once issued, a Chinese driver's license is valid for six years. Here are the steps to follow:
Verify eligibility
Confirm that you meet the basic requirements for driving in China. Each city has some unique requirements; however, the standard includes
Being within the age range (18–70 for cars in Beijing; 18–60 for motorcycles; stricter for large vehicles; limits vary by city)
Holding a valid passport and visa
Having a valid foreign driver's license.
Being medically fit
Being a permanent resident of China
You can find the requirements on the City Vehicle Management Office (VMO) website. Mainland China has driving licence mutual recognition and exchange agreements with France, Serbia, Belgium, and the United Arab Emirates.
Gather documents
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, gather all the required documents for that city. These usually include a valid passport with a visa or residence permit, proof of residence in China, your original foreign driver’s license, and passport photos.
You must also obtain a certified Chinese translation of your foreign driver’s license from an officially recognised translation agency or notary's office. Some cities may also require notarisation of the translated license.
Get a medical examination
In some provinces, you will have to provide a medical certificate to drive heavy-duty vehicles. The test usually includes a simple eyesight test, a colour blindness test, and a basic health check. You can do it at the VMO or an approved hospital in the province.
Visit the Vehicle Management Office (VMO)
Visit the local VMO with your documents. Some provinces require you to book an appointment before you arrive. So, check the local requirements. At the VMO, officials will review your documents and verify the information they contain. You will also have to complete the application form and pay the fees.
Take a driving test
In China, you must take theory and practical tests to obtain a permanent driver's license if you don’t have a valid foreign driving permit. However, if you hold a driver's license from France, Serbia, Belgium, or the United Arab Emirates, you are exempt from the test due to China's reciprocal recognition agreement. If you have an existing foreign license, you are exempt from the practical driving test.
Receive your permanent Chinese driver’s license
If you pass all the tests and your documents meet the requirements, you will receive a Chinese driver's license. You can pick up the permit in person or choose delivery options if available in your province.
China driving test for foreigners
Here’s what you should know if you need to take the theory test for a full Chinese driver’s license:
The test is computer-based and includes 100 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes.
You must score 90/100 to pass.
It covers traffic laws, road signs, penalties, safe driving practices, and emergency procedures.
The exam is offered in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Arabic, and, in major cities, Korean or Japanese. Check availability with your local Vehicle Management Office (VMO).
You’re usually allowed two chances per application; if you fail both, you must reapply
What is the official passing score for the China driving test subject?
Subject 1 (Theory Test - 科目一): 90 points out of 100 multiple-choice questions
Subject 2 (Closed-Course Practical Test - 科目二): 80 points for standard cars (C1/C2) and 90 points for buses, trucks, and tractors.
Subject 3 (Public Road Driving Test - 科目三): 90 points out of 100 multiple-choice questions
Subject 4 (Safety and Civics Theory Test - 科目四): 90 points out of 100 multiple-choice questions
How much does a Chinese driver's license cost for foreigners?
The total cost to obtain a Chinese driver’s license typically ranges from 300 to 700 RMB ($43–$100), depending on your visa status and license type.
Obtaining a temporary or full driver’s license if you already have a foreign driving permit: 300–400 RMB ($43–$57 ). This includes the application fee, certified translation, notarisation, and other requirements.
Converting a foreign driver’s license: 600–700 RMB
Obtaining a full driving license without a previous driving permit: 3,000–6,000 RMB. This covers driving school fees, tests, application fees, and any other miscellaneous fees.
Cost breakdown
Fee Item | Temporary license | Permanent license (Conversion) |
Application fee (车管所) | 10 RMB ($1.50) | 100 RMB ($14) |
Certified translation of a foreign license | 250–300 RMB ($35–$43) | 250–300 RMB ($35–$43) |
Notarisation (required in some provinces) | 75–200 RMB (if required) | 75–200 RMB (if required) |
Medical / health examination (on-site) | Optional: ~50 RMB ($7) | Required: ~50 RMB ($7) |
Passport photos (4 white-background) | 30–50 RMB ($4–$7) | 30–50 RMB ($4–$7) |
Written test fee | Not required | 100 RMB ($14) |
Miscellaneous (copies, transport) | 10–30 RMB ($1.50–$4) | 10–30 RMB ($1.50–$4) |
TOTAL ESTIMATED COST | 300 – 400 RMB (~$43–$57) | 600 – 700 RMB (~$85–$100) |
Processing time
Temporary driver’s license: Typically, the same day
Full Chinese driver’s license (foreign license conversion): 5–15 working days
Can you rent or own a car with a Chinese driver’s license?
You can rent or own a car with a Chinese driver’s license, depending on the type you have. If you have a temporary permit, you can only rent cars in the province where it was issued. However, to buy a vehicle or drive outside the province, you will need a full driving license.
Using your Chinese driving license
Once you obtain your Chinese driver’s license, you can legally drive across mainland China. Still, it’s important to understand the driving laws, regulations, and validity requirements to avoid fines or penalties.
Driving laws and regulations in China
China has strict traffic rules, and enforcement is rigorous, with cameras and penalty-point systems. Here are the key points you should know:
Drive on the right-hand side of the road, and always wear a seatbelt.
Speed limits vary: 30–40 km/h in city streets, 60 km/h on urban roads, and 100–120 km/h on highways.
Penalty points system: Drivers start with 12 points per year, and violations deduct points; 12 points in a year lead to license suspension.
Drunk driving is illegal; even low blood alcohol levels can result in heavy fines, detention, or deportation.
No international driving permits are recognised; you must carry your Chinese license while driving.
Foreigners must also carry their passport or residence permit as identification when driving.
Renewal and validity
A full Chinese driver’s license is usually valid for 6 years.
After 6 years of a clean driving record, it can be renewed for 10 years
The renewal process involves submitting your license, passport, residence permit, a health check, and a new photo to the Vehicle Management Office (VMO).
A temporary driver’s license is valid for up to 3 months and can be extended to a year, depending on your visa.
Need a certified driver’s license translation? Request a free quote to get started.
