Asia · driving guide
Driving in China.
They drive on the right. Translation accepted. Here is what a rental desk and a roadside check will actually ask you for.
Drives on the
Right
Permit
Translation accepted
Typical minimum age
18
Which side of the road does China drive on?
China drives on the right. If you normally drive on the left, the two things that catch people out are roundabouts and the first turn out of the rental car park — both are worth taking slowly. Cars are usually configured with the driver's seat on the left, so the gear selector will be in your other hand.
Do you need an international driving permit in China?
Not necessarily. Neither convention is recognised. A temporary Chinese licence is required, arranged locally. We would rather tell you that than sell you a document you do not need.
Minimum age to rent a car in China
Most rental companies in China will not release a vehicle to anyone under 18, and many apply a young-driver surcharge below 25. Age limits are set by the rental company rather than by law, so they vary between firms at the same airport — check the terms on the booking rather than assuming.
What to carry when driving in China
Your national driving licence, a certified translation of it, the vehicle's rental agreement and insurance documents, and your passport. Keep them together and reachable from the driver's seat — a roadside check goes faster when nothing has to come out of the boot.
Questions about driving in China
Which side of the road do they drive on in China?
China drives on the right. Rental cars are configured accordingly, with the driver's seat on the left.
Do I need an international driving permit in China?
China accepts a certified translation of your national licence rather than requiring a convention permit. Neither convention is recognised. A temporary Chinese licence is required, arranged locally.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in China?
Rental companies in China generally require drivers to be at least 18, with a surcharge often applied under 25. The limit is set by the company, not by law, so it varies between firms.