Six New Regulations from the Ministry of Public Security for Self-Driving Tourists in China: A Must-Read for Foreign Drivers

On September 11, 2019, the Ministry of Public Security (公安部) held a press conference in Beijing to introduce six new traffic management regulations, which will be implemented starting September 20, 2019. Among these regulations, significant measures were proposed to make it easier for foreign travelers driving into China.

Key Measures for Temporary Entry Vehicles

To simplify and improve the experience of foreign visitors driving into China, as well as to encourage tourism, residence, and innovation by foreign nationals, the Ministry of Public Security outlined six key measures for facilitating the entry of foreign vehicles and their drivers. These include:

1. Simplified Temporary Driving License Application Process

Foreign visitors wishing to drive in China will find the process of obtaining a temporary driving license much easier. Those applying for a temporary driving license for small cars or motorcycles need only present their entry and exit documents, a valid foreign driving license, and a Chinese translation of the license. This will streamline the application process and reduce waiting times.

2. Extended Validity of Temporary Driving Licenses

For short-term stays, foreign drivers can apply for a temporary driving license valid for up to 3 months. For longer stays, the license can be extended to one year. The license will be valid for multiple uses during its term.

3. Simplified Process for Temporary Vehicle License Plates

The process for applying for temporary vehicle license plates has been made easier for vehicles that have been registered overseas for less than six years. This applies to non-commercial microcars and motorcycles with fewer than 7 seats. These vehicles are now exempt from safety and technical inspections when applying for temporary plates.

4. Extension of Temporary Vehicle License Plate Services

Temporary vehicle license plate services will now be available at the county level, making it more convenient for visitors to obtain temporary vehicle registration and driving licenses. This reform is expected to benefit millions of foreign tourists, workers, and students who visit China annually.

5. Pilot Program for Electronic Temporary Vehicle Plates

In an effort to modernize and streamline the process, China will introduce a pilot program for electronic temporary vehicle plates. This innovation will simplify the process for foreign drivers and enhance efficiency.

6. Relaxation of Age Restrictions for Vehicle License Exchanges for Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan Residents

The new regulations also relax age restrictions for residents of Hong Kong (香港), Macau (澳门), and Taiwan (台湾) who wish to exchange their licenses for medium and large vehicle driving permits. This change will make it easier for residents of these regions to drive larger vehicles in mainland China.

Facilitating Car Rental Services and Traffic Violation Handling

As the number of self-driving tourists increases, the car rental industry has grown rapidly. There are now over 20,000 car rental businesses across China. To support car rental drivers and rental companies in dealing with traffic violations, the Ministry of Public Security has introduced reforms to simplify the handling of rental car violations. Renters can now use the "Traffic Management 12123" mobile app to check and self-process traffic violations related to rental cars, saving them the trouble of traveling back and forth to handle these issues.

These reforms are expected to greatly enhance the convenience for foreign visitors, making their travel experiences in China smoother and more enjoyable.