How to apply for a Temporary Driving Permit in China

Welcome to China!

If you’re planning to explore China’s stunning landscapes or vibrant cities by car, obtaining a Temporary Driving Permit is essential for a stress-free journey. This guide simplifies the entire process—from eligibility checks to permit pickup—so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Whether you’re here for a short visit or an extended stay, we’ll walk you through the latest requirements, document tips, and local insights to ensure a smooth application. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be road-ready in no time!

Step 1: Check Eligibility

1. Age      Requirement: At least 18 years old, with no      history of hit-and-run or serious traffic violations in China.

2. Stay      Duration:

l  ≤3 months: Apply for a 3-month permit.

l  >3 months: Apply for a 1-year permit (requires proof of long-term stay, e.g., visa/residence permit).

1. For      Ages 70+: Pass a free driving ability test      (valid for 1 year) at the local Vehicle Management Office (VMO).

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Required Documents:
✅ Passport (original + copy) or valid entry-exit ID.
✅ Foreign Driver’s License (original):

• Non-Chinese      licenses require a certified translation (options below):

• Notarized       by a Chinese embassy/consulate.

• Translated       by authorized agencies (e.g., Shanghai International Studies University       Translation Center).

• Use       official online platforms in cities like Shanghai.
        ✅ Passport-sized       Photo: 1 white-background photo (some offices       offer onsite photo services).

Additional Documents (if applicable):
🔸 Car Rental Agreement (if renting a vehicle).
🔸 Driving Ability Test Certificate (for applicants aged 70+).

Step 3: Application Process

1. Visit a      VMO Office:

• Locations: Local Vehicle Management Offices (e.g., Shanghai VMO branches,       airport traffic police stations).

• Hours: Typically Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (confirm via phone       beforehand).

2. Submit      Materials:

• Fill out       the Temporary Driving Permit Application Form (available       onsite).

• Pay a       small fee (approx. ¥10, varies by location).

3. Traffic      Safety Training:

• Watch a       30-minute educational video (no written test required).

4. Receive      Your Permit:

• If       approved, your photo will be taken onsite, and the permit will be issued       within 10 minutes.

Step 4: Important Usage Rules

⚠️ Always Carry: Temporary Permit + Original Foreign License + Certified Translation.
⚠️ Vehicle Restrictions:

• Rental      cars: Only drive C1 (manual) or C2 (automatic) vehicles.

• Personal      vehicles: Must match the vehicle type on your foreign license.
       ⚠️ Invalid      If:

• Permit      expires.

• Involved      in unresolved accidents or have 12+ penalty points.
       ⚠️ Validity:

• Permit      automatically expires upon leaving China. Reapply when re-entering.

Pro Tips

🔹 Book in Advance: Use apps like "交管12123" (Traffic Management 12123) for online appointments (available in cities like Beijing/Shanghai).
🔹 Emergency Contact: Dial 122 for traffic assistance or call local VMO hotlines (e.g., Shanghai: 021-12123).
🔹 Translation Services:

• Recommended:      Shanghai International Studies University Translation Center (¥50–200).

• Local      notary offices.
       🔹 Rental      Car Advice: Use major platforms like eHi Car Rental or CAR      Inc.—provide your permit, passport, and rental agreement.

Quick Summary:
Gather passport, foreign license + translation → Submit at VMO → Watch training video → Get your permit! Double-check details with the local VMO before your trip. Enjoy your road trip in China!

 If you have any further questions, feel free to email us for inquiries. (info@valuedtravels.com)

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