Destinations / China
Driving in China as a visitor
Not legally, but it is worth carrying. China accepts foreign licences, and a permit removes any argument at the rental counter or a roadside check.
Standard delivery included. Need it sooner? Express lands by for $25 more.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What China expects
| Permit needed | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Convention format | Local rules |
| Valid for | Not recognised |
| Drives on the | Right |
| Emergency number | 110 (police), 120 (ambulance) |
| Top speed limit | 120 km/h expressways |
What the rental desk will ask you for
| Your own licence | The original card. A photo of it, or a photocopy, gets turned away. |
|---|---|
| Licence translation | Not required by law. Worth having if your licence is not printed in Latin script. |
| Booklet format they know | Local rules |
| Minimum age | 18. Under 25 usually pays a young-driver surcharge. |
| Deposit | A credit card in the driver's name. The hold is taken in CNY. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Documents | IDPs are not accepted — get a temporary Chinese licence. |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | Zero-tolerance alcohol enforcement. |
| Speed | Extensive speed and ANPR camera network. |
On the road in China
At the pump
Petrol is sold as 92, 95 and 98 octane (gasoline) plus 0# diesel; stations are largely attended (full-service) and many are state-run Sinopec or PetroChina. Pay by Alipay/WeChat or cash, as foreign credit cards are frequently rejected; price is roughly RMB 7-8 per litre.
After a crash
Dial 122 for traffic accidents (110 for general police); do not move the vehicles in an injury or disputed crash until police arrive and document the scene. A police report is needed for any insurance claim and for the rental company.
Sources: chinadrivingguide.com · english.beijing.gov.cn · chinalegalexperts.com · tibettravel.org
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in China?
Not legally, but it is worth carrying. China accepts foreign licences, and a permit removes any argument at the rental counter or a roadside check.
Which IDP format does China accept?
China recognises the Local rules format. Your permit is prepared in that format.
Will a rental desk in China ask for one?
Rental desks require a Chinese provisional/temporary licence, not an IDP.
How fast can you get one?
Express orders are emailed within 5 minutes. The exact delivery moment is quoted before you pay and the order is refundable for 30 days.