Key practical points:
• A foreign or international license alone is not enough to drive in China; you need a Chinese one.
• A holder of a valid foreign license can usually convert it by passing a theory test (and sometimes a road test by category).
• There is an annual points system (12 points); using them up suspends the license and requires a retest.
• Offenses like drink-driving carry heavy penalties and can include detention and deportation.
• The license has a validity period and is renewed; its term may be linked to your residence validity.
• You must carry the license, vehicle registration and insurance while driving.
Provisions on the Application for and Use of Driving Licenses · Yalla China
机动车驾驶证申领和使用规定 / Provisions on the Application for and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses
✅ Effective: 2022-04-01
📝 Overview
Rules on obtaining a Chinese driving license as a foreigner, tests, and the points/violations system.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
If you plan to drive in China, your foreign or international license is not enough; you must convert it to a Chinese one, usually via a theory test. Take the points system seriously, and above all: drink-driving is a red line that can lead to detention and deportation. Always carry your license and vehicle papers. General orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
Ministry of Public Security / mps.gov.cn
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026