Cross-border route

Russia China

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Russia 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. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.

Get my permit for China China requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromRussia

ToChina

IDP in ChinaRecommended

Accepted formatLocal rules

Driving sideright (no change)

Currency in ChinaCNY

Russia → China

Crossing the border

Russia 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

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Russia 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.

Does the driving side change between Russia and China?

No. Both Russia and China drive on the right.

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.