UK licence China

Driving in China with a UK license

Short answer: you cannot drive in China on a UK license or an International Driving Permit alone — China requires a local or temporary licence.

Not accepted

An International Driving Permit is not sufficient to drive in China. China does not accept the IDP for foreign visitors — a local or temporary licence is required. Always confirm the current rule before you travel.

Convention basisChina relies on local licensing rules rather than the UN IDP conventions.

At the rental deskRental desks require a Chinese provisional/temporary licence, not an IDP.

CarryCarry BOTH your UK national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.

Minimum age18+ to drive; rental typically 21+ with a young-driver surcharge under 25

Validity1–3 years (you choose at checkout)

FormatDigital PDF you print yourself, plus a QR-verifiable ID card — accepted alongside printed permits

Last verified June 2026Convention: Local rules

UK drivers should carry an International Driving Permit with their licence; some countries recognise the 1949 version and others the 1968 version. Your International Driving Permit is a certified multilingual translation of your existing licence, prepared in the Local rules format and carried alongside your national licence.

Driving rules in China

Drive on the right.
IDPs are not accepted — get a temporary Chinese licence.
Zero-tolerance alcohol enforcement.
Extensive speed and ANPR camera network.

Common questions

Can I drive in China with a UK license?

you cannot drive in China on a UK license or an International Driving Permit alone — China requires a local or temporary licence. China relies on local licensing rules rather than the UN IDP conventions.

Is my UK driver's license valid in China?

Do I need an International Driving Permit for China?

Can I rent a car in China with a UK license?

Rental desks require a Chinese provisional/temporary licence, not an IDP.

What IDP format does China accept?

China relies on local licensing rules rather than the UN IDP conventions.

How do I get an International Driving Permit for China?

An International Driving Permit is a certified multilingual translation of your existing UK license. You apply online, and it is issued as a printable PDF booklet with a QR-verifiable ID card in the Local rules format China uses — carried alongside your UK license.

Do I still carry my UK license?

Carry BOTH your UK national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.