Many international travelers, business visitors, and overseas Chinese ask the same question before coming to China: can foreigners drive in China? The answer is yes — but only under specific legal conditions. Foreigners cannot drive in China using their home country’s driving license or an International Driving Permit directly. This guide explains what is allowed, what is not, and the safest options for getting around.
Can Foreigners Use Their Home Country Driving License in China?
No. Foreign national driving licenses are not valid for direct use in mainland China.
This applies to driving licenses issued in all foreign countries, including but not limited to:
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Canada
• Australia and New Zealand
• European Union countries
• Any other non-Chinese jurisdiction
Regardless of how long you have held your license or how experienced you are, a foreign driving license cannot be used to legally drive in China without conversion or replacement.
Can Foreigners Use an International Driving Permit in China?
No. International Driving Permits (IDPs) are also not recognized in mainland China.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not an independent driver’s license. It is a translation document issued together with a valid domestic license under international road traffic conventions such as the 1949 Geneva Convention or the 1968 Vienna Convention.
China has not signed or adopted these conventions. As a result, International Driving Permits are not recognized in mainland China. Even if a driver holds both an IDP and a valid domestic license, they are still not legally permitted to drive on public roads in China.
Legal Ways for Foreigners to Drive in China
Foreigners may legally drive in China only under the following circumstances:
Holding a Chinese driver’s license.
This is the only driving credential fully recognized nationwide. Long-term foreign residents commonly obtain a Chinese license through the official process.
Converting a foreign driving license into a Chinese temporary or full license.
Foreign visitors who meet the requirements may apply for a temporary Chinese driving permit or convert their foreign license into a full Chinese one. Once issued, the holder may legally rent and drive a vehicle during the permit’s validity period.
Driving in closed or non-public areas only.
Driving is allowed in private or restricted areas such as test tracks, training grounds, or filming locations. Driving on public roads without a Chinese license is illegal.
Any driving outside these conditions is considered unlicensed driving.
Risks of Driving in China Without a Chinese License
Driving in China using a foreign license or an IDP carries serious legal and financial consequences.
Unlicensed driving penalties.
Driving without a valid Chinese license is classified as unlicensed driving and may result in fines, vehicle impoundment, and administrative detention.
Increased liability in traffic accidents.
If an accident occurs, a foreign driver without a Chinese license may be deemed fully or primarily responsible, even if the other party is at fault.
Insurance coverage is usually invalid.
Most insurance policies in China require the driver to hold a valid Chinese driving license. If not, insurance claims are generally rejected, leaving the driver personally liable for all damages.
Recommended Transportation Options for Foreign Visitors
For tourists and short-term business visitors, self-driving is usually unnecessary and risky. More practical alternatives include:
Private car with professional driver.
This is the most popular option for foreign visitors. It eliminates legal risks and language barriers while providing comfort and flexibility. With a chauffeur service, you do not need to worry about license validity, traffic regulations, or insurance issues. All vehicles are legally registered, insured, and operated by licensed local drivers who understand Chinese traffic laws and road conditions.
Taxis and ride-hailing services.
China’s major cities offer reliable taxi networks and app-based ride-hailing services that are widely available.
Apply for a Chinese temporary driving permit for longer stays.
Foreigners staying longer and needing to drive may apply for a temporary permit, allowing legal car rental and self-driving.
How Foreigners Can Obtain a Chinese Driving Permit
Procedures vary by city, but typically require:
• Valid passport and visa
• Valid foreign driving license
• Official Chinese translation of the license
• Medical examination certificate
• Application forms and, in some cases, a theory test
Temporary permits are intended for short stays, while full Chinese licenses are issued to long-term residents.
Conclusion
Foreigners can drive in China, but only with a valid Chinese driving license or temporary driving permit. Foreign driving licenses — including those from the UK, the United States, and other countries — as well as International Driving Permits, cannot be used directly.
For most visitors, hiring a private driver or using taxis and ride-hailing services is the safest and most convenient choice. Those planning extended stays should complete the proper license conversion process before driving.
Understanding China’s driving regulations in advance helps ensure a legal, safe, and stress-free experience while traveling in the country.
