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How to obtain China driving license while having overseas driving license

2025-08-11
With the increasingly frequent international exchanges, more foreigners or returnees from overseas need to drive vehicles in China. For those holding a foreign driving license, it is crucial to understand how to obtain a China driving license. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the specific process and required materials for renewing a driving license from abroad to a China one, helping you complete the renewal procedures smoothly.

  1. Material

    1)
    		 Original overseas driving license: If the overseas driving license has expired for no more than one year, it can usually be renewed. If the expiration date exceeds one year, it may be necessary to reapply for a China driving license.
    2)
    		 Translation of driving license: Foreign’s driving licenses must be accompanied by a Chinese translation, usually issued by a translation agency recognized by the vehicle management office.
    3)
    		 Identity proof

    Foreigners: Original and photocopy of passport, valid Chinese residence permit and accommodation registration form for foreigners (registration form is not required for those holding a foreigner's permanent residence ID card). The period of stay for foreigners must be more than 90 days (such as work visa, residence permit, etc.).

    Overseas returnees: Chinese passport and ID card (if it has been cancelled, relevant certificates need to be provided).
    4)
    		 Physical examination certificate: Certificate of Physical Condition of Motor Vehicle Driver issued by medical institutions at or above the county level.

  2. Application

    Apply at the vehicle management office, submit the materials and fill out the application form. The vehicle management office will review the authenticity of the overseas driver's license and the duration of residence, etc.

  3. Examination

    Under the following conditions, holders of overseas driving licenses for Chinese driving licenses can be exempted from the examination:

    1)
    		 Continuous residence overseas more than three months, the applicant must provide proof of residence in overseas more than three months (such as visa, residence permit, etc.)
    2)
    		 The overseas driving license is legal and valid: The driving license is within its validity period and has not been revoked or cancelled.
    3)
    		 Correspondence of permitted driving type: There is a correspondence between the permitted driving type of foreign driving license and the permitted driving type of Chinese driving license Road Traffic Safety Law, Regulation and Related Knowledge Examination (i.e. Subject 1) is still required even if other examinations are exempted.
    Under the following conditions, part or all the tests are required to apply for a Chinese driving license with an overseas driving license:

    1)
    		 Stay abroad for less than three months: Even if you hold a legal overseas driving license, you need to take the test of Subject 1, Subject 2 and Subject 3.
    2)
    		 Foreign driving licenses are not recognized: If an international driving license (IDP) is not directly recognized in China, it will be treated as driving without a license, or all the examinations must be taken
    3)
    		 Mismatch of permitted driving types: If the permitted driving type on a foreign driver's license has no corresponding vehicle type in China, the license needs to be downgraded and renewed, and an examination may be required.

  4. Certification

    After passing the exam, pay the relevant fees (such as the cost of the driving license), and you can obtain a China driving license. It can usually be collected on the same day or within a few working days. The validity period of the new driver's license is the same as the remaining validity period of the overseas driving license, but it shall not exceed six years at the longest.

In addition, according to the mutual recognition and replacement agreements of motor vehicle driving licenses signed between China and Belgium, the United Arab Emirates, France and Serbia, people holding driving licenses from these four countries can apply for driving licenses in China without test. For other countries, it is usually necessary to take the Subject one test.

Finally, although it requires certain preparation and formalities to apply for a China driving license with an overseas driving license, it can be successfully completed if it operates in accordance with the stipulated procedures and prepares complete materials. Drivers from countries with which China has a mutual recognition agreement can enjoy the convenience of test-free renewal. At the same time, it is recommended that you consult the local DMM before the replacement, to understand the latest policy and specific requirements, to ensure the smooth replacement of China driving license. We hope this guide will help you complete the renewal process efficiently and drive safely in China.

Disclaimer

All information in this article is only for the purpose of information sharing, instead of professional suggestion. Kaizen will not assume any responsibility for loss or damage.

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