Asia
Driving in China
An official translation of your licence satisfies the local requirement. Here is exactly what China expects from a visiting driver, and how to have it before you land.
China
Asia · drives on the right
- Drives on the
- Right
- Rental min age
- 18+
- Ready in
- 8 min
Do I need an international driving permit in China?
An official translation of your licence satisfies the local requirement. Neither convention is recognised. A temporary Chinese licence is required, arranged locally.
Which side of the road does China drive on?
China drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in China?
Rental desks in China generally require drivers to be at least 18. Younger drivers may face a surcharge or be refused.
How quickly can I get one before I fly?
The digital document is issued in minutes — the median is 41 seconds after payment — and works offline. A printed booklet ships separately by tracked courier.
Requirements are set by China and can change. We publish what the destination currently expects and update it when it moves. If China refuses the document we recommended for it, our money-back guarantee applies.