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C1.3 International Driving Permit

Exercise Caution Regarding Chinese "International Driving Permits"

It is absolutely impossible to obtain a so-called "International Driving Permit" (IDP) using a Chinese driving licence. Any "International Driving Permit" obtained by a Chinese citizen holding a Chinese driving licence is not recognised. Driving abroad using only a domestic Chinese driving licence is generally considered illegal and equivalent to unlicensed driving, except in specific countries that explicitly allow the short-term use of a Chinese licence. For example, international students in Britain can drive using their Chinese licence for up to 12 months from their date of entry, but this requires a corresponding certified translation from a recognised authority (the certification must be from an official notary public office – please see the previous article on driving in the UK with a Chinese licence for details). A Chinese "International Driving Permit" holds no legal weight abroad.

This is because China is not a signatory to the United Nations Road Traffic Convention. Consequently, Chinese government authorities cannot currently issue International Driving Permits to its citizens. Therefore, any "International Driving Permit" obtained with a Chinese licence is invalid. A legally effective International Driving Permit must be issued by the government of the citizen's home country; no other organisations have the right to issue them.

Can you drive abroad with a translated copy of a Chinese driving licence?

This depends on the specific regulations of each country. Some countries permit the short-term use of a Chinese driving licence if accompanied by the original licence, a translated version, and a notarised certificate. Others do not.

  • For example, the Ontario (Canada)      Highway Traffic Act stipulates that Chinese citizens aged 16 or older can      drive legally for up to 90 days after entering, provided they hold both      the original Chinese driving licence and a translation issued by a      certified translator accredited by the Association of Translators and      Interpreters of Ontario (ATIO).

  • For example, in California, USA, a      Chinese driving licence can be used. However, when using it in California,      you must possess the original Chinese licence, a notarised translation of      the licence, your original passport, and a credit card held in the      renter's name.

However, if you become a resident of California, you must obtain a California driver's licence within 10 days. If you hold a Green Card or another US immigration status, you cannot use your Chinese licence. If caught, you could be charged in court for driving without a licence. The California state government does not recognise International Driving Permits. In practice, many US states allow the use of a Chinese licence, but you must check in detail with the official sources before you travel. If the driving licence translation and notarised certificate are not recognised, you could be charged with unlicensed driving, and your insurance will not cover any incidents.

Therefore, before travelling to any country, you should confirm with that country's embassy whether driving with a Chinese licence is permitted and if there are any other requirements. China drives on the left, while many other countries drive on the right, so it's also essential to learn the local traffic rules beforehand. Insurance is mandatory. Students studying abroad long-term are advised to obtain a local driver's licence.