Posted by
jufl77
20 yrs ago
I am looking to rent a car and drive through Hangzhou, Suzhou, Shanghai, and Yellow Mountain during Chinese New Year.
Does anybody know if my IDP (International Driving Permit) is valid in mainland China? If not, what do I need to obtain in order to drive there?
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TC
20 yrs ago
Not sure about the IDP, but apart from that I think you'll need nerves of steel, the patience of Job, lots of cash, and a good lawyer.
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I've read / heard from more than one source that an International Driver's License is not valid in China. I've been told you must take the Chinese exam and driving test. I wouldn't dare to drive so I've never verified this info. Hope you speak Chinese so you could tell police what happened, if you were to get in an accident.
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The January 12, 2006, issue of People's Daily Online reports that in the year 2005 there were 98,738 people killed in road accidents in China. According to the same source, in 2005 there were 450,254 road accidents in China which injured 469,911 people. I assume the deaths and injuries are reported separately.
http://english.people.com.cn/200601/12/eng20060112_234961.html
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International driving permits are not recognised by the Chinese authorities. Meiguoren is correct in stating that you would need to apply for a Chinese driver's license.
Alternatively, hire a car and driver.
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Taps
20 yrs ago
I would not suggest that you drive here, if you love life better hire a car with driver.
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Hi there,
Having lived & driven cars, bikes & motorbikes in China (Shanghai, Beijing, Urumuqi, Kashgar and even in Tibet) I can tell you that your IDP is not accepted to drive with in China.
Also, if you are not a resident you are not even allowed to pass the drivers' license exam.
I would advise to look out for a hired car with driver which can easily be found in big cities.
Additionally you would probably enjoy your trip much more being able to look around you instead of having to focus 360 degrees 100% of the time.
Enjoy!
Marlies
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Hi there
as frequent traveller to china and who only uses hired taxis... i hv to give you some very important info. the newest racket there is that, there are people watching for foregners driving and purposely come and hit your car and then demand exhorbitant sums of money. a number of my friends who live and work in china do drive and are scattered all over china and they have told me personal experiences which i dont want to go into in this thread. so take care and enjoy you CNY Holidays :-)
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Like everything else in China, a driving liscense can be bought expect to pay around 2,000RMB. However insurance etc will be a nightmare, i have driven extensivly in Guangdong but with company car. Driving here is not a pleasant experience and can be extremely dangerous.Best bet is to try and hire local car with driver but good luck with that during CNY.
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