Is the International Driving Permit Recognized in China?

The International Driving Permit (IDP) does not have legal validity in China. Using an IDP or a national driver’s license paired with an IDP to drive a vehicle is considered illegal in China. This article will explain the policy basis, legal driving options, overseas usage recommendations, and risk warnings for foreign nationals and Chinese citizens alike.

Why Doesn’t China Recognize the International Driving Permit?

The IDP is essentially a supplementary translation document for driver’s licenses, mutually recognized by countries that are signatories of the United Nations Road Traffic Convention (联合国道路交通公约). However, China has not signed this convention, which is why the IDP is not legally valid in the country. According to Article 19 of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People’s Republic of China (中华人民共和国道路交通安全法), one can only legally drive in China if they hold a Chinese driver’s license (中国驾驶证) issued by the Chinese traffic authorities, or a temporary permit for a foreign driver’s license (外国驾照临时许可) officially recognized by China.

Foreign nationals who attempt to drive with just an IDP may face penalties including vehicle impoundment (扣车), fines (ranging from 200 to 2000 RMB) (罚款), or even up to 15 days detention (拘留). This regulation applies to both short-term visitors and long-term residents.

How Can Foreign Nationals Legally Drive in China?

Short-Term Stay: Apply for a Temporary Driving Permit

Applicable Group: Foreign nationals who are visiting China temporarily for tourism, business, or short-term visits.

Required Documents:

  • Valid passport (有效护照)

  • Overseas driver’s license (境外机动车驾驶证) (with Chinese translation)

  • Immigration record within the last 3 months (3个月内入境记录)

Where to Apply:

  • Airports (e.g., Beijing Capital Airport (北京首都机场)) or the local Vehicle Management Offices (地级市车管所).

  • The permit can be issued within 30 minutes.

Validity:

  • The permit is valid for up to 1 year, matching the length of the visitor’s visa or residence permit.

Long-Term Stay: Exchange for a Chinese Driver’s License

Applicable Group: Foreign nationals living in China for more than 1 year, such as workers or students.

Process:

  • Pass Subject 1 (theoretical exam) (科目一).

  • Submit health certificate (体检证明), passport (护照), overseas driver’s license (境外驾照), and a notarized translation (翻译公证件) of the license.

Exemption:

  • Driver’s licenses from some countries (e.g., Belgium (比利时), UAE (阿联酋)) may be directly exchanged without testing, subject to local Vehicle Management Office announcements.

Recommendations for Chinese Citizens Driving Abroad

Chinese citizens who need to drive abroad should keep the following tips in mind:

Confirm the Policy of the Destination Country

  • Countries that accept Chinese driver’s licenses for short-term driving: Over 180 countries including the United States (美国) (most states), United Kingdom (英国), Canada (加拿大), and Australia (澳大利亚) permit short-term driving (usually 6-12 months).

  • Countries that do not accept Chinese driver’s licenses: Countries such as Japan (日本), South Korea (韩国), and Germany (德国) require an International Driving Permit (国际驾照) alongside a Chinese license.

Prepare Supplementary Documents

  • Required Materials: The original Chinese driver’s license (中国驾驶证), notarized translation (翻译公证件) (certified by a notary or consulate), passport (护照), and international credit card (国际信用卡).

  • Alternative Option: Some car rental platforms offer “International Driver’s License Certifications” (国际驾照认证件) (e.g., white cover “CIDP”), but the validity of these documents varies by country, so it’s essential to confirm with the rental agency in advance.

Be Aware of Usage Restrictions

  • Driving Categories: The vehicle driven must match the type permitted by the driver’s license. Some countries require drivers to be at least 21 years old (21岁).

  • Insurance: In the event of an accident, a translation document may not be recognized by insurance companies, potentially leading to additional financial risk.

Risk Warnings and Legal Responsibilities

Domestic Driving Risks

If foreign nationals drive using an IDP or an uncertified translation in China, they may be considered as driving without a valid license. In this case, they will be fully liable for any consequences under the Road Traffic Safety Law (道路交通安全法).

Overseas Driving Risks

In non-signatory countries, using a translation document instead of an IDP could lead to criminal charges. For instance, Japan (日本) treats driving without a valid license as a criminal offense, with a potential prison sentence of up to 3 years (3年监禁).

Additionally, car rental companies that provide invalid documents resulting in the driver being caught typically do not bear responsibility. The driver will be required to pay fines or appear in court.

The International Driving Permit (国际驾照) is not recognized in China. Foreign nationals should apply for a temporary permit or exchange their foreign driver’s license for a Chinese one through official channels. Chinese citizens traveling abroad should verify the driving regulations of their destination country in advance to avoid legal risks due to incomplete documentation. Following local laws is crucial for safe and legal travel, both within China and abroad.