Dear foreign friends, when you living or working in Guangzhou, have you ever been frustrated by transportation inconveniences? Do you wish to drive freely and explore this vibrant city more thoroughly? The good news is that converting your foreign driving license to a Chinese one is actually quite straightforward! Today, we'll walk you through the entire process of exchanging your international driving permit for a Chinese license in Guangzhou.
1
Two options, meeting different needs
Temporary Driving License
(No Examination Required)
If you are only visiting for a short period of time and need to drive a vehicle temporarily, you can apply for a temporary motor vehicle driving permit:
Required documents:
Original and copy of valid passport
Original and translation of foreign driver's license
Self-photo
Validity period:
3 months to 1 year (depending on the duration of stay)
Features:
No need for examination, directly processed. Suitable for short-term visitors to China.
Official Driver's License
(Only one exam is required)
If you plan to stay in Guangzhou for an extended period, it is recommended that you obtain a formal Chinese driver's license.
Required documents:
Original and copy of passport (including visa page)
Valid visa or stay/residence permit for a period of more than three months (including 90 days)
Original foreign driver's license + designated translation (translated by a Guangzhou notary office or a designated translation agency)
4 white background small one-inch photos
Physical examination report (from a designated hospital in Guangzhou, such as Guangzhou First People's Hospital)
Temporary accommodation registration form (issued by the police station or hotel)
Exam requirements:
Only need to take the first subject theory test (optional in 15 languages such as English)
Validity period:
The validity period for the first renewal is 6 years
2
Done in one day
Step 1: Prepare materials
Translate driver's license → Physical examination → Prepare photos
Step 2: Book the exam
Book the first subject exam through the "Guangzhou Traffic Police" WeChat official account or the Traffic Management 12123 APP
Step 3: Take the exam
The first subject exam is worth 100 points. A score of 90 or above is considered passing. There are two exam opportunities.
Step 4: Receive the driver's license
After passing the exam, you can receive the Chinese driver's license on the spot.
Why choose HACOS?
Professional Guidance: Familiarize yourself with the latest policies in Guangzhou to avoid rejection due to incorrect documents
Translation Service: Provide translation services for driver's licenses recognized by the vehicle management office
Appointment Assistance: Help you quickly make an appointment for the first driving test
Full Support: One-stop service from document preparation to obtaining the driver's license
HACOS always strive to provide our clients with more high-quality, efficient and considerate services, covering China visas, tax-planning, incorporation, financial consulting, global shipping, intellectual property, foreign trade services, legal consultation, etc.

