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World Driving Permit

🇨🇳 China driving licence translation & IDP

No IDP — translation only· Issues IDPs under no UN road-traffic convention· Last reviewed 20 Jun 2026

Short answer

China is not a party to the 1949 Geneva or 1968 Vienna road-traffic conventions, so China drivers cannot obtain a standard International Driving Permit. To drive abroad you rely on your original China licence plus a certified translation, and should confirm each destination's rules before travelling. Because China licences are printed in Chinese script, foreign police and rental desks often cannot read them — a certified translation lets them verify your licence at a glance.

Driving abroad with a China licence

China has not ratified the 1949 Geneva or 1968 Vienna road-traffic conventions, so there is no internationally standardised IDP available to China drivers. Many countries will still let you drive on your original licence accompanied by a certified translation during a short visit, but the rule is set destination by destination — always confirm before you travel.

What China drivers should carry abroad

  • Your original China driving licence (physical card)
  • Passport with any required visa or entry stamp
  • A certified translation of your licence (no standard IDP is available to you)
  • Proof of insurance valid in your destination

Translate your China licence

A certified, multi-language translation companion for your China licence — ready to carry alongside the original. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Check a specific destination

Get a tailored answer for your China licence, your destination, dates and vehicle.

Popular destinations for China drivers

Do you need an IDP at your destination? Jump to the sourced country guide:

China drivers: frequently asked questions

What do I need to drive abroad with a China driving licence?
China is not a party to the 1949 Geneva or 1968 Vienna road-traffic conventions, so China drivers cannot obtain a standard International Driving Permit. To drive abroad you rely on your original China licence plus a certified translation, and should confirm each destination's rules before travelling. Because China licences are printed in Chinese script, foreign police and rental desks often cannot read them — a certified translation lets them verify your licence at a glance.
Can China drivers get an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
No. China is not party to the 1949 Geneva or 1968 Vienna Conventions, so there is no standard IDP for China licence holders. Carry your original licence with a certified translation, and check each destination's specific rules — some accept a translated licence, others require local formalities.
Does a certified translation replace an IDP for China drivers?
No. A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks read your China licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence alongside it. Because China licences are printed in Chinese script, foreign police and rental desks often cannot read them — a certified translation lets them verify your licence at a glance.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? How to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Driving licence translation for other countries