Feasibility of Self-Driving Tours for Foreign Tourists in China and Required Documents
1. Feasibility of Self-Driving Tours
It is feasible for foreign tourists to go on self-driving tours within China, but the following conditions must be met:
- Driving Qualifications:
- Hold a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with the original driver's license from your home country, or obtain a temporary motor vehicle driving permit recognized by China.
- Note: China has not joined the United Nations Convention on Road Traffic, so the International Driving Permit (IDP) alone does not have legal effect and must be used together with the original home country driver's license and a certified translation. Some provinces (such as Beijing, Shanghai) allow short-term visitors to drive with their home country driver’s license and a certified translation.
- Drivers from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan regions need to exchange their licenses for temporary driving permits through mainland China traffic management departments.
- Vehicle Requirements:
- You must rent a legitimate vehicle, or if using a personally owned vehicle, it needs to undergo temporary entry procedures (usually assisted by the rental company).
2. List of Required Documents
The following documents are needed for driving in China:
- Basic Documents:
- Original passport and valid Chinese visa
- Original valid driver’s license from your home country
- Certified translation of your driver’s license (must be certified by a Chinese notary office or embassy/consulate)
- In some cities/provinces, you may need to apply for a temporary driving permit (application submitted at the local vehicle management office, cost approximately 20-200 RMB).
- Rental Documents:
- International credit card (used for deposit payment, typically 5000-20,000 RMB)
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Rental contract (must clearly state insurance terms, responsibility division, etc.)
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Other Possible Required Documents:
- Temporary license plate for vehicles entering China (if not renting)
- Travel permits for special areas like Tibet and Xinjiang (processed through travel agencies).
3. Rental Process Guide
- Advance Booking:
- Book through international rental platforms (such as Hertz, Avis, Shenzhou Car Rental) or local platforms (Ctrip, Fliggy), choosing services that support foreign users.
- On-site Vehicle Pickup:
- Provide the required documents, sign the contract, and inspect the vehicle (take photos to record scratches, fuel gauge, etc.).
- Insurance Selection:
- It is recommended to purchase comprehensive insurance (including third-party liability insurance and vehicle loss insurance), costing about 50-200 RMB/day.
4. Important Notes
- Traffic Rule Differences:
- In China, driving is on the right side of the road, there are many no-honking zones, and speed limits should be observed (highways typically have a speed limit of 120 km/h).
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There are numerous electronic police cameras (speed checks), and fines for violations may be traced through the rental company.
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Navigation Tools:
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Use Gaode Map or Baidu Map (download the Chinese version or switch languages), as Google Maps has limited functionality in China.
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Language Barriers:
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Ensure the rental contract is provided in English, and the in-car navigation device can switch languages.
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Special Area Restrictions:
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For self-driving in Tibet, you must apply for a Foreigner Travel Permit in advance (processed through travel agencies, takes about 15 days).
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Emergency Handling:
- Traffic accident hotline: 122
- In case of vehicle breakdowns, contact the rental company or call the road assistance hotline (e.g., 12122).
5. Alternative Suggestions
If self-driving procedures seem too complex, consider the following options:
- Car Hire Service: Book a car with a driver through travel agencies or platforms (such as Ctrip, Klook), costing about 500-1500 RMB/day (including fuel and driver wages).
- Ride-Sharing/Carpooling: Use apps like Didi Chuxing and choose the "carpool" function (requires binding a Chinese mobile phone number).
