The standard conversion process
The Chinese driving licence conversion process for foreign nationals is administered by the local Vehicle Management Office (VMO, 车辆管理所) under the Public Security Bureau traffic management department. The process is the same regardless of nationality, though the specific documents required may vary slightly by municipality and foreign licence format.
Step 1 — Medical examination
[VERIFY: source needed — May 2026] A basic eyesight and colour-blindness test is required. This is typically carried out at the VMO itself (a counter at the office) or at a designated medical examination point. It takes a few minutes and is not a full physical. An appointment is usually not required for the medical check.
Step 2 — Document submission
Documents typically required:
- Valid foreign driving licence (original). The licence must not be expired.
- Certified Chinese translation of the foreign licence. Translation must be performed by a notary or translation service accepted by the VMO. Notary offices in major Chinese cities typically provide this service. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026] Cost approximately ¥100–¹300.
- Valid passport with current China entry stamp.
- Valid Chinese work residence permit (or study permit for students).
- Temporary residence registration certificate (the “24-hour registration” form from the Public Security Bureau, required within 24 hours of moving to a new address). This is the proof of address document for the VMO.
- Two recent passport photographs (white background, specific size — confirm the exact size requirement with the VMO, as it differs from standard passport photo sizes).
- Completed application form (available at the VMO).
Step 3 — Theory test
The Chinese road rules theory test is 100 multiple-choice questions; you must score 90 or above to pass. The test is available in English and other languages at VMOs in major cities. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026] Study materials are available through the official NRSC app (交管12123) which allows practice of the full question bank. The question bank is large (approximately 1,200–1,500 questions) but the actual exam draws from it predictably — systematic practice over 2–4 weeks is sufficient for most candidates.
The test is computer-based at the VMO. If you fail, you can re-take after a waiting period (typically one week). No limit on re-takes.
Step 4 — Licence issuance
Once the test is passed and documents are accepted, the VMO issues a temporary paper driving certificate immediately (valid for around 3 months). The physical plastic Chinese driving licence card is [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026] produced and available to collect within 1–3 weeks.
The Chinese driving licence is valid for [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026] 6 years for categories A and B, with renewal required. Renewal involves a simple eyesight check; no further testing.
Country-specific notes
UK
UK licences are recognised as valid foreign licences for conversion purposes. The DVLA licence must be genuine and current. Photocard format is standard. Translated copy required. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026]
USA
US state licences vary in format; all are accepted for conversion. Some states issue licences without an expiry date — these may require additional documentation. An official translation is required. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026]
Australia
Australian state and territory licences are accepted. The licence must be current. Some Australian licences combine a photograph and address on the same card as the licence itself — ensure all relevant information is visible on the document presented. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026]
Canada
Canadian provincial licences are accepted. Some provinces issue enhanced driving licences (EDL) or REAL ID-compliant licences; confirm the format with the VMO before visiting. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026]
Germany
German licences (Führerschein) in the EU credit-card format are accepted. Older paper format licences may be questioned — if in doubt, obtain the current credit-card format from the KBA before travelling to China. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026]
France
French licences in the EU credit-card format are accepted. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026]
Japan
Japanese licences are accepted. The Japanese licence includes a translation field on the reverse; however, a certified Chinese translation is still typically required by the VMO. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026]
South Korea
South Korean licences are accepted. The Korean licence does not include an English translation; a certified Chinese translation is required. [VERIFY: source needed — May 2026]
Practical tips
- Call ahead to your local VMO to confirm current document requirements — requirements can vary by city and change without notice.
- Bring both originals and copies of all documents. VMOs typically keep copies.
- Allow a full morning or afternoon for the first visit — queues can be long.
- The 交管12123 app allows some steps to be booked online in advance, reducing wait times.
- Some expatriate relocation companies offer a licence-conversion assistance service if you find the process daunting.