Can I use my foreign driver's license here? If not, how do I get a Chinese one? This article breaks down the key requirements and procedures for converting a foreign driver's license into a valid license for use in the Chinese mainland.
What Are the Basic Eligibility Requirements?
To apply for a Chinese driver's license using a foreign license, you must meet the following conditions:
1. Validity and Residency Requirements
(1)You must hold a valid foreign driver's license.
(2)You must meet the general application conditions laid out in China's regulations on motor vehicle driver licensing.
(3)You must have stayed in the country or region where your foreign license was issued for at least 90 days cumulatively within one year before the license was issued.
If you are applying for a license for larger vehicles (Class A1, A2, or B1), you must also have held the corresponding foreign license for at least two years.
If you do not meet certain conditions such as age or height for the class you want, you may apply for a lower class that matches your qualifications.
2. Type of Foreign License
(1)Your foreign license must be valid, non-temporary, and must grant independent driving privileges.
(2)Licenses that are expired, still within a probationary period, temporary, or have special restrictions are not eligible for exchange.
What Documents and Preparations Are Required?
Step 1: Medical Examination
You must complete a driver's medical exam at an approved facility. These include:
(1)County-level hospitals and above
(2)Military medical facilities at regiment level or above
(3)Public health institutions such as community health service centers or health examination centers approved by local health authorities
The facility will issue a Certificate of Physical Conditions, valid for 6 months.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
For foreign nationals, the following documents are needed:
(1)ID Proof: Original passport or international travel document, a visa or residence permit valid for at least three months, and a registration form of temporary residence issued by the police. Alternatively, a Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card can be used.
(2)Foreign Driver's License: The original license. If it is not in Chinese, you must provide a certified Chinese translation from a translation agency or notarization office. If the license type or restrictions are unclear, supporting documents may be required.
(3)Photos: Four recent 1-inch ID photos with a white background, taken within the last six months.
(4)Medical Certificate: As mentioned above.
Do You Need to Take Any Tests?
Yes. All applicants must pass the written test (Subject 1), which covers traffic laws, regulations, and safe driving practices.
If you're applying for a license in categories A1, A2, A3, B1, or B2 (which typically cover large vehicles), you must also pass the driving skills test (Subject 2) and road test (Subject 3).
No matter what kind of foreign license you hold, you cannot directly exchange it for a Chinese motorcycle license (Category D). If you wish to drive a motorcycle in China, you'll need to first obtain a regular Chinese license and then apply for a motorcycle endorsement.
What About Short-Term Visitors? Can They Drive Without Exchanging a License?
Yes. If you are staying in China temporarily, you can apply for a Temporary Driving Permit, valid for up to three months. If your stay exceeds three months, the permit can be extended to one year.
In Summary:
Getting a Chinese driver's license using a foreign one is possible, but it's not automatic. Be prepared to provide supporting documents, take a medical exam, and pass at least one written test. For short-term visitors, temporary permits are a practical alternative.
Need help with the application or translation process? Local vehicle administration offices or driving schools in major cities often offer services for foreigners.
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