You can’t get behind the wheel in China without a Chinese driver’s license. Period. An International Driving Permit or other foreign driver’s licenses are not recognized here. But earlier this month, the Chinese Ministry of Public Security announced a set of pilot policies that aimed at simplifying the procedure of getting temporary driver’s permits for foreign nationals.
Starting from September 20, you can apply for a temporary driver’s permit (for cars only) without physical examinations/medical reports. All you need is your passport and your foreign driving license with a notarized Chinese translation.
When you arrive at Pudong or Hongqiao airport, apply directly at Ehi Car Rental Service, Shanghai’s first licensed agency for handling and issuing temporary driving permits for overseas visitors.
The permit is valid for one year and before its expiry, and you don’t need to reapply next time you make a trip to China. According to Ehi Car Rental Service, soon enough online application services will be provided, meaning you’ll have the permit ready to be collected at the entry points before you land.
Mandatory information:
your name, phone number, email address, passport number and nationality information.
Application documents
copy of your travel document and overseas driver's license,
one recent one-inch color photo
In addition, chinese translation of your driver's license is required. Translation service will be provided by a designated institution with a professional qualification. Please apply at least 2 working days in advance.
You will receive an email notification upon all materials are approved. And you can obtain your temporary Chinese driving permit at eHi’s branches in Pudong or Hongqiao airport when arriving Shanghai. This temporary driving permit application service may soon be available at our nationwide branches. The permit will be valid for one year.
source: ehi car service
