How foreigners get a Chinese driving license
The process is administrative rather than complicated. Once you know which path applies to you and which documents to bring, the rest is scheduling and studying.
Which path applies to you
Converting a foreign license
You already hold a valid license from another country
- Theory test is usually still required
- Practical subjects are often exempt
- A certified Chinese translation of the license is needed
Applying as a new driver
You have never held a driving license
- All subjects must be completed in order
- Training hours are done with a driving school
- Common license classes are C1 (manual) and C2 (automatic)
Document checklist
Bring originals and copies. A missing item usually means a second trip, so check the list before you go.
- 1
Passport
Original plus copies of the photo page and current visa page.
- 2
Visa or residence permit
Must be valid at the time of registration and exam booking.
- 3
Temporary residence registration
Issued by the police station or your accommodation provider.
- 4
Health check certificate
Completed at a medical institution approved by the local office.
- 5
Passport-style photos
Bring extra copies; sizes are specified by the local office.
- 6
Foreign license and translation
Only needed if you are applying for a conversion route.
The process, step by step
Confirm your eligibility
Check that your visa or residence status allows you to apply in the city where you live.
- Long-term residence status is normally required
- Age and health requirements depend on the license class
- Rules vary by city, so confirm with the local vehicle administration office
Prepare your documents
Collect identity papers, complete the health check, and prepare translations if you hold a foreign license.
- Passport and valid visa or residence permit
- Temporary residence registration form
- Health check certificate from an approved institution
- Passport-style photos in the required size
- Foreign license plus certified translation, if applicable
Register for the exam
Submit your documents at the vehicle administration office or through a driving school.
- Documents are reviewed and your file is created
- You choose the license class, commonly C1 or C2
- Exam appointments are scheduled after approval
Pass Subject 1 (theory)
Traffic laws, road signs, and basic rules, tested on a computer at the exam center.
- Computer-based multiple choice and true/false questions
- Several languages are commonly available, including English
- Practice in your own language before booking
Complete the practical subjects
Subject 2 covers closed-course skills; Subject 3 covers on-road driving.
- Training hours are completed with a driving school
- Subject 2 tests maneuvers on a closed course
- Subject 3 tests real road driving with an examiner
Pass Subject 4 and receive the license
The final theory test on safe and civilized driving, followed by license issuance.
- Scenario-based questions on safe driving judgment
- Complete the remaining paperwork after passing
- New drivers enter a probation period with extra restrictions
Fees and timing
Subject 1 & 4
Theory subjects
Subject 2 & 3
Practical subjects
Multiple, incl. English
Exam languages
Fees, appointment waiting times, and available exam languages differ between cities. Information on this page is for reference only and is subject to the latest rules of your local vehicle administration office.
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