Hi there! At Infinite-Tour, we’re all about helping you create unforgettable experiences in China. We know that one of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in the country is by hitting the open road and exploring at your own pace. But here’s the thing: driving in China isn’t quite the same as driving back home.
One of the most common questions we get is: “Can I use my international driving permit?” The short answer is, unfortunately, no. China hasn’t signed the IDP Convention, which means your international license, or even licenses from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao, won’t be recognized. You’ll need a Chinese driver’s license to drive legally.
That’s where the temporary Chinese driver’s license comes in. It’s your ticket to freedom on those incredible Chinese roads, and we’re here to walk you through the process, step-by-step.
Why Bother Getting a Temporary License?
We understand that applying for a driver’s license while on vacation sounds like a hassle. But trust us, the rewards are worth it. Imagine:
- Unrestricted Exploration: Forget sticking to tourist routes! With a car, you can discover hidden gems, charming villages, and breathtaking scenery that most visitors miss.
- Ultimate Convenience: Public transportation in China is great, but it doesn’t always get you where you want to go, especially in more remote areas. A rental car gives you the flexibility to explore on your own schedule.
- An Authentic Experience: Driving in China is an adventure in itself! It’s a chance to connect with the local culture in a way that’s just not possible from the back of a tour bus.
Provisional Driving License Application Rejection Reasons
Applications will not be accepted if the applicant:
- Has medical conditions that may affect safe driving, including heart disease, epilepsy, mental disorders or neurological diseases
- Is addicted to drugs or dependent on psychotropic substances
- Submits invalid or fraudulent documents
- Does not meet China’s legal requirements for driving permits
- Has unresolved traffic violations or accident records
- Was involved in hit-and-run incidents in China
- Falls under other legal restrictions
Please ensure compliance with all requirements before applying.
What Documents Do I Need?
The good news is that getting a temporary license is usually pretty straightforward. Here’s what you need:
To make it easier, we have prepared the list below:
Note: You need to be above 21 years old.
| Document | Specifications | Notes |
| A Copy of Passport | Valid 6+ months | Include visa pages |
| A Copy of National drivers license | Translated & notarized | Front & rear pages |
| A Copy of valid Chinese tourist visa | L visa or other visas. | Apply Step by Step with an L Visa |
| Identification photo | White Background |
How to apply for a temporary driving permit
The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Okay, let’s get down to brass tacks. Here’s how to apply for your temporary Chinese driver’s license:
- Translation and Notarization: The first step is getting your foreign driver’s license translated into Chinese and notarized. Don’t worry, there are plenty of reputable translation services in China that can handle this for you. We recommend using one with an official red stamp.
- Visit the Vehicle Management Office (VMO): Head to your local Vehicle Management Office (VMO). Some airports even have convenient processing points, which can save you time.
- Submit Your Documents: Hand over your passport, visa, translated driver’s license, and those passport-sized photos.
- Get Your License!: Once everything is processed, you’ll receive your temporary driver’s license. It’s generally valid for up to 3 months, aligning with the validity of most tourist visas.
Important Note: As of late 2019, you can sometimes renew this provisional license for up to a year, so it’s worth checking with the VMO when you apply.
Driving Safely in China: Some Local Tips
Driving in China is an experience, and it’s good to be prepared!
- Speed Limits: The following unless otherwise indicated by the sign.
- The maximum speed limit for one-way lanes in cities is 30 km/h (19 miles/h) and 40 km/h (25 miles/h); (not strictly enforced in practice)
- The upper limit of speed is 70 km/h (43 miles/h) on the main roads in the city and on the roads with two yellow lines, and 80 km/h (50 miles/h) on the expressways.
- The speed limit of the urban expressways is about 100 km/h (62 miles/h) ; some of them 80 km/h.
- The upper speed limit is 120 km/h (75 miles/h) (whatever national or provincial level, or national expressways built according to Expressway standards). Some of them are marked as speed limits of 100 km/h or 110 km/h.
- The allowable error is about 10 km/h (6 miles/h). The speed limit error of some expressways may reach 20 km/h (12 miles/h); however, within the specified speed limit, any risk of from 15 km/h (9 miles/h) 20 km/h (12 miles/h) is relatively high.
- Radar speed zones and speeding cameras can be used to monitor drivers for speeding or other traffic violations.
- Speeding Penalties:
- Speed exceeding 10 km/h (6 miles/h) but less than 50% of the speed limit is as high as 200 RMB. For example, if you drive at 100 km/h (62 miles/h) in the speed limit of 80 km/h (50 miles/h).
- For example, if you drive at 190 km/h (118 miles/h) on a highway with a speed limit of 120 km/h (75 miles/h), you will be fined 2,000 RMB and driving license revocation for exceeding 50% of the speed limit.
- Embrace Local Navigation Apps: Google Maps is blocked in China. Amap is your best bet.
- Understand the Rules of the Road: Chinese traffic laws can be a little different. Brush up on local rules and road signs.
- Practice Patience: Traffic in major cities can be intense. Stay calm, be alert, and don’t let it get to you.
- Remember: Left-Hand Drive!
FAQs
- Q: Can I rent a car in China if I only have a foreign driver’s license?
- A: No, you cannot. You must have a temporary Chinese driver’s license to rent a car in mainland China.
- Q: How long is a temporary Chinese driver’s license valid for?
- A: Typically, a temporary license is valid for up to 3 months, matching the length of most tourist visas.
- Q: Can I drive a motorcycle with a temporary Chinese driver’s license?
- A: Yes, you can, provided you meet the age requirement and your license is valid for motorcycles in your home country.
- Q: Is it difficult to find a translation service for my driver’s license in China?
- A: No, translation services are readily available in major cities and tourist areas. Look for services with an official red stamp for certification.
- Q: What happens if I drive in China without a valid driver’s license?
- A: Driving without a valid license can result in fines, vehicle impoundment, and potentially more serious legal consequences. It’s always best to obtain the necessary license before driving.
Ready to Hit the Road?
We hope this guide has given you a clear picture of how to get a temporary Chinese driver’s license. At Infinite-Tour Agency, we can help you with every aspect of your China trip, from visa assistance to car rentals and route planning. Contact us via maxine@infinite-tour.com for personalized assistance. , and let’s start planning your incredible Chinese driving adventure!
Last Updated: May 2025 | Complies with: National Road Traffic Safety Law (2024 Revision)
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