International Driving Permits invalid in China. Short stay (<3 months): temporary permit, no exam. Longer stay: exchange license via Subject 1 written test (90/100 pass, 15 languages, ~RMB 70-100). Exemptions for France, Belgium, Serbia, UAE.
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International Driving Permits are not recognized in China. A foreign national cannot drive legally using only a license issued by another country.
Two legal pathways exist, depending on the intended length of stay.
1: Temporary Driving Permit (stay shorter than 3 months)
The temporary driving permit is valid for three months and may be extended to one year if your stay prolongs. Applicants must provide: a valid passport, a valid visa or residence permit, the original foreign driver‘s license, and a certified Chinese translation of that license. No examination is required. Applications can be submitted at certain international airports or at the local Public Security Bureau vehicle management office.
2: Full Chinese Driver’s License (stay of 3 months or longer)
Foreigners holding a valid foreign driver's license may exchange it for a full Chinese license by passing the written examination on traffic regulations, known as Subject 1.
The exam includes 100 multiple-choice questions, and you must score at least 90 out of 100. The test is limited to 45 minutes. Each reservation gives you two attempts — if you fail both, you must pay again and reschedule.
Available languages: Subject 1 is offered in 15 languages, including English, French, Russian, Japanese, German, Korean, Arabic, Spanish, Dutch, Portuguese, Swedish, Italian, Mongolian, Thai, and Vietnamese.
Examination fee: Fees vary by province. The national guideline is approximately RMB 70 to 100 per test, with first attempt costs typically in this range. Some regions charge around RMB 50 for the exam. In many cities, the fee for the first attempt is around RMB 70, with reduced fees for retakes. Consult your local vehicle management office for exact figures.
Exam exemption: Drivers holding licenses from France, Belgium, Serbia, or the United Arab Emirates may be exempt from Subject 1 under bilateral mutual recognition agreements.
Required documents for license exchange:
- Passport with valid visa or residence permit (at least three months validity remaining)
- Original foreign driver‘s license
- Certified Chinese translation of the license (from an officially approved translation agency)
- Temporary residence registration form (issued by the local police station)
- Medical examination report (valid for six months)
- Photographs (may be taken at the vehicle management office)
Processing times vary by city. Allow at least half a day at the vehicle management office. Staff generally do not speak English, so arranging for a Chinese-speaking companion is advisable.
This information is accurate as of the date of publication. Local regulations may differ. Confirm requirements with the local Public Security Bureau vehicle management office before applying.
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