Practical guide
Chongqing driving: get a Chinese temporary permit before renting a car
An international driving licence alone is not the stated route for driving in China.
Chongqing’s municipal government says Chinese law does not recognize international driving licences and that foreign visitors who want to drive must apply for a Chinese temporary driving permit at a local Vehicle Administration Office. Its guide lists a passport with valid visa or entry stamp, original foreign driving permit, official Chinese translation, white-background photo, Chinese address and phone number among the required items. Permit validity, documentation and local processing are live official conditions, so confirm them before arranging a rental.
A clear next step
- Do not rely on an international driving licence alone; check the current temporary-permit process first.
- Prepare the passport, foreign licence, official Chinese translation, photo, Chinese address and phone number stated by the municipal guide.
- Confirm the current Vehicle Administration Office process and permit validity before booking a car rental.
Sources & verification
Last verified
- Under an Hour to the Open Road: How Foreign Visitors Can Drive in China | Chongqing Municipal People’s Government international driving licences are not recognized as the driving authorization · Chinese temporary-driving-permit application at a Vehicle Administration Office · listed applicant documents and local contact details
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