Convert a Foreign Licence to Drive in China
The application route, documents to prepare, tests you may face, and final step to get your Chinese permit.
No published figure yet. The authority does not publish this cost in a form we could verify and quote, so this guide covers the procedure only: what to bring, in what order, and where it goes wrong. We will add the figures the moment there is a source for them.
In order
- Check your eligibility — Confirm your residence status is valid and meets the required minimum duration, and that your foreign licence is valid.
- Translate your licence — Have your valid foreign driving licence translated in a form accepted by the local vehicle management office.
- Complete the application — Fill in the conversion application and submit it with your foreign licence, translation, identity, and residence documents.
- Take the theory test — Sit the theory test when it is required as part of your conversion.
- Take a road test if required — Complete the road test if the office requires it based on the country that issued your foreign licence.
- Follow issuance steps — Provide any remaining signature, photo, or confirmation requested after your tests are passed.
- Receive your Chinese permit — Collect the Chinese driving permit after the office approves your conversion.
A foreign driving licence is not exchanged automatically. You must submit a conversion application and usually take a test. Your requirements depend on your residence status and the country that issued your licence.
Confirm eligibility
Before applying, check that you hold valid residence status meeting the required minimum duration. Your foreign driving licence must also be valid.
Prepare the licence and translation
A valid foreign licence is required, together with a translation that the local office will accept. Arrange the translation before you submit the application.
Apply and take tests
Submit the conversion application at the local vehicle management office. The theory test is the common requirement, while a road test depends on the country that issued your licence.
After approval
Complete any remaining issuance steps after passing the required tests. The office then issues the Chinese driving permit for the approved conversion.
Confirm before you act
Fees and processing times change. This page was checked on 2026-10-23; confirm the current rule with the authority named in each source above before you rely on a deadline.
Last checked 2026-10-23, next review 2027-04-21. Every figure above names its source and the date it was read. This page is a guide, not legal, tax or immigration advice — confirm with the authority before acting on a deadline.