Car Rental Destinations / Asia
🏯 Renting a Car in China
Renting a car in China is possible for tourists, but it's not as simple as showing your license at the counter. China does not recognize international driving permits, so foreign visitors need a Chinese temporary driving permit first.
How the temporary driving permit works
According to the Chongqing municipal government's official English site, visitors apply at a local vehicle administration office. The process is quick — usually under an hour, with a short traffic-safety video and no road test.
- A passport with a valid visa or entry stamp
- Your original driver's license from home
- An official Chinese translation of your license
- A photo with a white background
- A local address and phone number in China
The permit is valid for three months to a year depending on your visa, and lets you rent and drive in China. Requirements can vary by city, so check with the local office or your rental company before you go.
Should you drive at all?
- Between cities, China's high-speed rail is fast and easy, often faster than driving.
- Inside big cities, traffic and parking are tough. Ride-hailing, metros, and taxis are usually simpler.
- Where a car shines: rural areas, scenic regions, and road trips where trains don't reach.
Clutch tip: Set up a mobile payment app that works for foreign visitors before your trip — it makes paying for gas, tolls, and parking much easier.
Planning a trip to China? Clutch's rental advisor gives you the right vehicle for your city, dates, and group, plus local driving tips.
Plan my China rental →Frequently asked questions
Can I use an international driving permit in China?
No. China does not recognize international driving permits. Foreign visitors need a Chinese temporary driving permit to rent and drive a car.
How do tourists get a temporary driving permit in China?
Apply at a local vehicle administration office with your passport and visa or entry stamp, your original license, an official Chinese translation, a white-background photo, and a local address and phone number. It usually takes under an hour.
Before you book anywhere, read rental car hidden fees and how to avoid damage charges.
Add your China travel dates and who's coming — Clutch recommends the right car, gives it a Rental Deal Score, checks the weather, and lists the best rental companies near your destination.
Plan my China rental →