Everything you need to know about driving legally in China as an international visitor
None*
Not a Signatory
34
Provincial Regions
Right
Driving Side
N/A
IDP Not Recognized
China is NOT a signatory to either the 1949 Geneva Convention or the 1968 Vienna Convention. This means International Driving Permits (IDPs) are not legally recognized for driving in mainland China. Foreign visitors cannot simply use an IDP with their domestic license to drive legally.
Important: An IDP alone does not authorize you to drive in China. To drive legally, you must obtain a Chinese Temporary Driving Permit from the local Vehicle Management Office (cheguan suo). Driving without proper documentation can result in fines of RMB 200-2,000, detention up to 15 days, and your rental insurance being voided.
To legally drive in China as a foreign visitor, you need: (1) a valid foreign driver's license, (2) an official Chinese translation of your license (notarized), and (3) a Temporary Driving Permit issued by Chinese authorities. Most international visitors choose to hire a car with a driver or use China's excellent rail and ride-hailing networks.
China's 34 provincial-level divisions have varying enforcement of driving regulations. Here's what you need to know:
Temporary Driving Permits available for short-term visitors with valid foreign licenses. Apply at the local Vehicle Management Office with passport, visa, foreign license, and medical examination form. Process takes 1-3 working days.
Similar to Beijing/Shanghai. Foreign residents can apply for a Chinese driver's license by passing a written exam (available in English and several other languages). Minimum score of 90 out of 100 questions required.
Special regulations may apply in Hainan Free Trade Port. Recent policies have explored recognition of foreign licenses with restrictions. Check current regulations before travel.
Most provinces have mechanisms for Temporary Driving Permits at major city Vehicle Management Offices. Requirements vary -- always check locally. Many rural and remote areas lack any process for issuing temporary permits to tourists.
International brands (Hertz, Avis) and major Chinese companies (Shenzhou, eHi, CAR Inc.) operate in major cities. They typically require a Chinese driver's license or Temporary Driving Permit -- an IDP alone is NOT accepted under any circumstances.
Compulsory Traffic Accident Liability Insurance is mandatory. Comprehensive coverage available. Without proper Chinese driving credentials, insurance policies are typically void -- you would be personally liable for all damages.
The most practical option for most visitors is hiring a car with a driver through Didi Chauffeur, hotel services, or tour operators. Costs approximately RMB 400-800 per day including fuel. No licensing concerns.
China has the world's largest EV infrastructure with over 2 million public charging stations. Many rental cars are electric. Charging is convenient in cities but limited in rural areas. Major networks: State Grid, TELD, Star Charge.
China maintains a strict and complex system for foreign drivers. Here is what you must understand before attempting to drive:
| Rule | China Requirement |
|---|---|
| Driving Side | Right side of the road (mainland China). Left side in Hong Kong and Macau. |
| Speed Limits | Urban: 30-70 km/h | Highways: 60-80 km/h | Expressways: 100-120 km/h. Speed limits strictly enforced by extensive camera networks. |
| Seat Belts | Mandatory for driver and front passenger nationwide. Rear seat belts required on expressways and in many cities. Children under 4 must use car seats; under 12 cannot sit in front. |
| Blood Alcohol Limit | 0.02% BAC = driving offense (fines, license suspension). 0.08% BAC = criminal offense (drunk driving) with detention up to 6 months, criminal record, and 5-year license revocation. |
| Mobile Phones | Strictly prohibited while driving. Fines and license points deducted. Hands-free requires compliant phone mount -- holding phone for any reason is illegal. |
| License Plate Restrictions | Major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, etc.) restrict driving based on license plate numbers during peak hours and during air pollution emergencies. |
| Traffic Cameras | Extensive camera enforcement nationwide -- red light, speed, lane violation, seatbelt, and phone usage cameras. Fines and points are automatically generated. |
| Insurance | Compulsory Traffic Accident Liability Insurance (CTALI/Qiangzhi Xian) mandatory. Without valid Chinese driving credentials, ALL insurance is void. |
While mainland China does not recognize IDPs, Hong Kong does under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Get your IDP for Hong Kong travel and driving needs.
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