Foreign nationals residing in mainland China cannot legally drive on a foreign licence or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Unlike some countries where an IDP allows temporary driving, mainland China does not recognise the IDP for road use. Foreign nationals wishing to drive must obtain a Chinese driving licence.
For UK licence holders, the conversion process involves several steps. First, the UK driving licence must be translated into Chinese by a certified translator. Many public notary offices (公证处) in major cities offer certified licence translations. Second, the foreign licence must be verified by the relevant Chinese authority — this typically involves presenting the original licence, a certified Chinese translation, a valid residence permit, and a recent passport photo at the local Vehicle Administration Office (车辆管理所, Chē Liàng Guǎn Lǐ Suǒ) of the Public Security Bureau.
Third, a written theory examination must be passed. The exam covers Chinese traffic laws and road rules and is currently available in English, as well as other major languages, at most Vehicle Administration Offices in large cities. The exam consists of 100 questions drawn from a question bank of approximately 1,000. Practice apps and websites with the full question bank are widely used by expatriates to prepare.
Upon passing the theory test, a temporary Chinese licence is issued, which converts to a permanent licence after a short probationary period without incidents. The UK licence is not surrendered; Chinese authorities retain a copy of the relevant documentation. The Chinese licence requires periodic renewal (currently every 6 years for car licences, with a medical check at certain age thresholds). Importantly, the Chinese licence does not expire with the residence permit — holders must maintain valid residence status to drive legally, but the licence itself does not require re-examination upon permit renewal.