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Home/India/to China
Cross-border route

India China

Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from India into China, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. An IDP is recommended in China and required if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet, in the Local rules format. Important: India drives on the left and China drives on the right, so the side of the road changes at the border — take extra care. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.
⚠ Driving side changes at the border: India drives on the left, China on the right.
Get my permit for China China requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance
FromIndia
ToChina
IDP in ChinaRecommended
Accepted formatLocal rules
Driving sideChanges (left → right)
Currency in ChinaCNY
India → China

Crossing the border

India and China share a land border you can cross by car. Keep your passport, national driving licence and International Driving Permit together, and check opening hours and any toll or vignette requirements before you travel.

Driving rules in China

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

What to see when you arrive in China

  • the Great Wall of China
  • the Forbidden City in Beijing
  • the Terracotta Army in Xi'an
  • the karst peaks of Guilin
  • the Bund in Shanghai

Common questions

01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from India to China?
An IDP is strongly recommended for China and required if your national licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet. China recognises the Local rules format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between India and China?
Yes. India drives on the left and China drives on the right. Adjust carefully once you cross the border.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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