International Driving Permit for China
International Driving Permit for China: IDP not recognised for foreign visitors. Driving side, minimum age, and how to get your IDP for China online in minutes.
Do you need an IDP to drive in China?
China does NOT recognise International Driving Permits. Visitors must obtain a temporary Chinese driving permit to drive legally. An International Driving Permit is an official translation of your national driver's licence into multiple languages — it never replaces your home licence, so always carry both, along with your passport.
What to carry when driving in China
- Your valid national driver's licence
- Your International Driving Permit (IDP) — note: not recognised here, see below
- Your passport and rental documents
How to get your IDP for China
You don't need to visit an office. Get your International Driving Permit online with International DL in minutes — we translate your licence into the official UN-convention languages and issue your IDP digitally, ready before you fly.
Which permit China recognises
China has not signed either the 1949 Geneva or the 1968 Vienna Convention, so an International Driving Permit carries no treaty status there. Rental agencies still commonly ask for one as a translation of your licence.
Treaty status per the United Nations treaty depositary: 1949 Geneva Convention · 1968 Vienna Convention
Driving on the Right-hand side in China
China drives on the RIGHT. If you normally drive on the left, allow time to adjust — roundabouts, junctions and overtaking all run the opposite way, and most rental cars will have the gear shift on your right.
The legal minimum driving age in China is 18. Rental companies routinely set their own, higher minimum and often add a young-driver surcharge below 25.
Driving to China soon?
Get your digital International Driving Permit in minutes and drive worry-free.
Get my IDP →Common questions about driving in China
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive in China?
IDP not recognised for foreign visitors. China does NOT recognise International Driving Permits. Visitors must obtain a temporary Chinese driving permit to drive legally.
Which side of the road does China drive on?
China drives on the Right-hand side of the road.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid?
An IDP is valid for 1–3 years from the date of issue, depending on the plan you choose, and only while your national licence remains valid.
How fast can I get an IDP for China?
You can get a digital International Driving Permit from International DL online in minutes — apply, and we issue your IDP without a trip to an office.
How Asia compares
Requirements change at the border. If your trip crosses into a neighbouring country, check it before you drive.
| Country | IDP | Drives on | Min. age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangladesh | IDP recommended | Left-hand side | 18+ |
| Indonesia | IDP required | Left-hand side | 17+ |
| Brunei | IDP recommended | Left-hand side | 18+ |
| Nepal | IDP recommended | Left-hand side | 18+ |
| Pakistan | IDP recommended | Left-hand side | 18+ |
Other countries
Read more in our travel guides.
Checked August 29, 2026. Driving rules change and can vary by region and nationality. Always confirm the current requirements with the official transport authority or embassy of China before you travel.