To drive a car in China, you need a Chinese driver’s license. Many countries around the world and even throughout Asia accept a license from your home country or even an international driver’s permit (IDP). Unfortunately, China is not one of those countries. This is because China has not signed the convention that allows it to use the International Driving Permit. Also, Chinese driving licenses are only valid in mainland China. Residents of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan must also request one to drive on mainland China.
If you plan to drive a car or motorcycle in China, you need to be between 18-60 years old and will need one of the following two types of China driver’s licenses.
Provisional Driver’s License:
Tourists who wish to drive in China for a short period can obtain a provisional Chinese driving license for up to three months without having to take an exam. Usually, you can get it from the traffic police department in the city where you are. In Beijing and possibly other major cities, you can get it directly from the airport.
Documents to be provided:
- National driving license (from your home country).
- Translation of the foreign driver’s license into Chinese (consult the embassy for details on where this can be done).
- International driving license.
- Three color photos with a white background.
- Completed application form.
- A hotel reservation for at least one day.
Full Driver’s License:
This driver’s license is for foreigners visiting China for over three months or plan on staying in China long term as it is good for 6 years. Unfortunately, it takes a few trips (if you’re lucky) to get a full-license as well as passing a 100 question written test.
Foreign nationals who have a driver’s license from their home country can apply directly to their city’s Vehicle Administration Office to convert their license. Applicants need to bring the following documents:
- Application form
- Identification Certificate, Work Permit, Passport
- Medical Report issued by designated hospital
- Foreign driving license with Chinese translation
- 1 inch full face photograph on a plain background
With these documents, the applicant must sit a theory test to in order qualify for the license. The theory test consists of 100 random questions out of 900.
After passing the theory test, the Vehicle Administration Office will issue a Chinese driver’s license within five working days. This license only applies to cars. To obtain a license for buses or trucks, the applicant will need to take a practical exam for that vehicle.
If you are over 18 years old and do not have a driver’s license from your home country, you can still get a driver’s license in China. To do this, you will need to pass four exams:
- Written exam on laws and traffic (100 questions).
- Parking test and basic driving skills on a track.
- Written test on good driving habits (50 questions).
- Road test.
Documents to be provided:
- Passport and residence permit with at least 3 months validity (original and photocopy).
- Temporary residence file obtained at the local police station (original and photocopy).
- Medical certificate.
- Three to five color photos with a white background.