With a Chinese driving license, we can have flexibility and peace of mind to travel at our own pace around China. Unfortunately, China does not recognize driving licenses from any other countries and even the driving license issued in Hong Kong or Macau is not allowed to drive in the mainland. So, if you are planning to drive in China you must apply for a Chinese driving license first.
Who qualifies for a Chinese Driving License?
All expats can obtain a Chinese driving license, you must be over 18 years and under 70 to drive a compact car or a scooter, and between 18 and 60 years of age to ride a motorcycle. Anyone wishing to drive in China must be in good health and hold a current visa or residence permit.
Chinese Driving License & Temporary Driving License
China offers two types of driving licenses: a formal Chinese driving license and a temporary driving license.
A formal driving license is available for those holding a long-term visa (more than 90 days) or a residence permit from mainland China.
Temporary driving licenses are for those who are in China for a short visit or business trip. This is a temporary driving license that is usually only valid for the duration of the Chinese visa, which is a maximum of 90 days. After the traffic management area of the local Public Security Bureau accepts the application for a temporary driving license, if it meets the regulations, it is necessary to participate in the study of road traffic safety laws and regulations.
How to study for a formal driving license in China? (Expats without other country’s driving license upon arrival in China)
If you don’t have a driving license in your country and want to get one from scratch in China, the process for obtaining one will be mostly the same as for Chinese nationals. You will need to apply at the Vehicle Administration Office, submit the required documents, and take a written theory exam. On top of that, you will also need to take driving lessons and pass four exams. Procedures may vary slightly depending on the city and province where you are taking the exams, but generally, it should take at least three months to get your driving license.
How to convert an foreign driving license into a Chinese one? (Expats with other country’s driving license)
If an expat holds a current driving license from a foreign country, they can apply for a Chinese license at the foreign affairs office of the traffic management area of the local Public Security Bureau. Those with foreign driving licenses need to submit the following documents when applying:
1. Proof of identity, i.e., a passport, and a copy, and official proof of residence and accommodation in the form of a residence permit on the passport or a certificate of accommodation registration from the local police station.
2. A health certificate from a medical institution at the county level or higher. An officer from a foreign embassy or consulate and a representative of an international organization in China may follow the principle of diplomatic equivalence principle as required.
3. If the original foreign driving license is not in Chinese, a copy with a Chinese translation must be submitted.
Notice:
1.When replacing a Chinese driving license, applicants need to take an exam (with English questions and reference materials).
2.If you are applying to drive large passenger buses (A1, A3, B1) and tractors (A2, B2), or mid-size passenger buses and trucks, you must take a Subject One exam for the highest-level vehicle type and respective Subject Three exam for each type of vehicle.
3.If you are applying to drive compact cars, you must take a Subject One exam.