International Driving Permits or other foreign driver’s licenses are not recognized in China, so to drive a car in China, you will need to obtain a Chinese driver’s license. Only foreigners with a valid residence permit can apply for a Chinese driver’s license.
There are two ways for foreign residents to obtain a driving license: the first is to apply for a temporary driver's license (no examination required); the second is to exchange a foreign driver's license for a Chinese driver's license (requires an examination);
To apply for a temporary driver's license in China, you will need to apply with the following documents:
● National driver’s license.
● International Driving Permit.
● A Chinese translation of the foreign driver’s license. For more details on this, consult with your embassy.
● A completed application form.
● Three one-inch color headshots with a white background.
● Details of a hotel booking for at least a one-night stay.