Can I drive in mainland China with my Australian driver's licence?
No, you cannot. Mainland China does not recognise foreign driver's licences for short-term visitors. Your Australian licence is only a prerequisite for obtaining the required Chinese permit.
Will an International Driving Permit (IDP) allow me to drive in China?
No. China is not a signatory to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and does not recognise the IDP. You cannot use an IDP to drive or rent a car in China. Warning: Anyone claiming otherwise is incorrect and this could lead to legal trouble and voided insurance.
What document do I actually need to drive legally in China?
You need a Chinese Temporary Driving Permit, issued by the Chinese Traffic Police. This permit allows foreigners to drive legally for a limited period.
Where and how do I apply for the Chinese Temporary Driving Permit?
Apply at major international airports (e.g., Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong) at dedicated Traffic Police desks upon arrival, or at a local Traffic Management Bureau in the city. Airport application is recommended for efficiency.
What documents are required for the Temporary Driving Permit application?
You need: your passport, valid Chinese visa, original Australian driver's licence, an officially notarised Mandarin translation of your licence, three 1-inch white-background passport photos, and your hotel accommodation registration form.
Where can I get my Australian driving licence translated into Chinese?
Translations must be done by a certified/accredited translation company or notary public. It’s best to arrange this in Australia before departure. Some rental agencies or platforms may also offer this service.
How long does it take to get the permit and how long is it valid?
If documents are ready, airport processing takes 30-60 minutes. The permit is typically valid up to 90 days for tourists, and up to one year for longer-stay visas.
What is the recommended way to book a rental car in China as a foreigner?
Use an international online agency with a strong presence in China. This ensures an English interface, transparent pricing, and support. Pro-Tip: Always use QEEQ for booking.
Which rental platform should I use for booking in China?
QEEQ is highly recommended. It aggregates local and international suppliers, provides an English interface, customer service, and can help with the temporary driving permit process.
Why use a platform like QEEQ instead of booking directly with a local company?
QEEQ vets rental companies, ensures staff are prepared for foreign customers, provides clear English documentation, and offers support for language issues or disputes. Booking directly on Chinese sites is very difficult for foreigners.
What type of car should I choose for my trip in China?
For cities, choose a compact or mid-size sedan. For rural or mountainous regions, opt for an SUV for ground clearance and space. Pro-Tip: Always select an automatic transmission for easier handling in traffic.
What should I know about insurance when renting a car in China?
Basic insurance (CDW and TPL) is included but has a high excess. Opt for Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW) or a "zero excess" policy to reduce liability. QEEQ often offers this as an add-on.
How far in advance should I book my rental vehicle?
Book 2-4 weeks in advance for automatics or SUVs. For peak holidays (Golden Week, Spring Festival), book 2-3 months ahead as vehicles can sell out.
Can I rent a car in one city and return it in another?
Yes, one-way rentals are possible but incur a significant fee based on distance. This is clearly shown on QEEQ during booking.
What is the general process for picking up a rental car?
Go to the rental counter at the airport or city location, present your documents, sign the agreement, complete the credit card security deposit, and inspect the car with an employee.
Which documents do I need to present when picking up the car?
You’ll need your passport, valid Chinese visa, Chinese Temporary Driving Permit, original Australian driver’s licence, booking voucher, and a valid credit card in the main driver’s name.
How does the security deposit work?
A sum (¥3,000-¥8,000 CNY, or ~$650-$1700 AUD) is pre-authorised on your credit card to cover potential damages, fines, or fuel shortages. It’s not a charge, but a hold.
How should I inspect the vehicle before leaving the lot?
Check the exterior for scratches and dents, interior for cleanliness and function, test lights and indicators, verify tyres and fuel. Pro-Tip: Take a detailed video of the car as evidence for any disputes.
What if the rental staff don't speak English?
This is common outside major airports. Use a translation app (Google Translate, Baidu Translate) for communication and document translation. Having your QEEQ voucher in English and Chinese is helpful.
What should I check in the rental agreement before signing?
Confirm the price, insurance coverage, and fuel policy match your booking. Use a translation app if the contract is in Chinese. Don’t sign if you’re uncertain.
What’s the biggest adjustment for Australians driving in China?
Driving on the right side of the road is the primary difference. All lane positions, turns, and traffic flows are mirrored from Australia.
What are your tips for adapting to driving on the right?
Chant "stay right" at first, ensure the driver’s seat is near the centre line, remember left turns cross oncoming traffic, and practice in a quiet area if possible before heading out.
What are some key traffic rules foreigners should know?
You can usually turn right on red after stopping (unless prohibited), vehicles in roundabouts have priority, always yield to pedestrians but drive defensively, and honking is used frequently for awareness, not aggression.
What should I expect when driving on Chinese highways?
Highways are modern and tolled. The leftmost lane is for passing. You’ll take a ticket on entry and pay on exit. As a renter, use manual/cash toll lanes, not ETC.
Which navigation apps work best in China?
Do not rely on Google Maps. Use Amap (Gaode Ditu) or Baidu Maps for accuracy and real-time traffic. Both have English settings, though some features may remain in Chinese.
How can I ensure I have mobile data for navigation and payments?
Buy a Chinese SIM card from an official telecom provider at the airport. You’ll need your passport. This is essential for navigation, payments, and communication.
What is the parking situation like in Chinese cities?
Parking can be challenging and expensive in major cities. Use underground lots in malls or office buildings. Only park in marked bays; blue lines indicate paid parking, typically paid via QR code with Alipay or WeChat.
Are there any unwritten rules of the road?
Drivers may cut in with little space, so be defensive and predictable. Watch for electric scooters and bikes, which often ignore signals. Maintain safe following distances and stay alert.
What costs should I expect beyond the daily rental rate?
Total cost includes daily rental, insurance, one-way fees, refundable security deposit, plus expenses for fuel, tolls, and parking.
Can I use my Australian credit card for fuel and tolls?
Warning: Most Chinese businesses, including petrol stations and parking meters, do not accept foreign credit cards. China is a near-cashless society dominated by Alipay and WeChat Pay.
How can I use Alipay or WeChat Pay as a tourist?
Both apps now allow foreigners to link international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) via features like "Tour Pass", creating a prepaid digital card for QR payments. Set this up as soon as you arrive.
How do I find a petrol station?
Use Amap or Baidu Maps and search for ‘加油站’ (Jiā Yóu Zhàn). State-owned brands like Sinopec and PetroChina are reliable and widely available.
What fuel types are used in China?
Check the sticker inside the fuel door. The most common petrol types are 92 and 95 octane. Diesel is labelled as 柴油 (Chái Yóu). Using the wrong fuel is costly.
How do I refuel and pay at a petrol station?
Some stations are full-service—tell the attendant the type and amount ("Jiā mǎn" for full tank). Pay the attendant via mobile payment or inside at the cashier. Cash may be accepted at some locations.
What is the current price of petrol in China?
As of recent estimates, petrol is about ¥8-9 CNY per litre (~$1.75-$2.00 AUD). Prices vary depending on region and market fluctuations.
What emergency numbers should I save in my phone?
Police: 110, Ambulance: 120, Fire: 119, Traffic Police/Accidents: 122. Also, save your rental company's 24/7 roadside assistance number.
What should I do if I have a minor accident?
Stop safely, turn on hazards, do not admit fault, take photos, exchange information, and call your rental company for guidance on police reporting.
What is the procedure for a major accident involving injuries?
Call police (110) and ambulance (120) immediately, don’t move vehicles unless necessary, provide first aid if possible, and contact your rental company after calling emergency services.
What should I do if the car breaks down?
Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights, place the warning triangle 50-100 metres behind the car, and call the rental company’s roadside assistance.
Should I worry about speed cameras and fines?
Yes. China has extensive camera enforcement for speeding, red lights, and bus lanes. Fines and demerit points are passed to you by the rental company, often with an admin fee. Stick to speed limits.
How are traffic fines handled with a rental car?
The rental company pays the fine and charges your card used for the security deposit. You’ll receive a notification of the transaction.
Is it safe to drive at night in China?
In cities and major highways, yes. Roads are well-lit. In rural or mountainous areas, lighting is poor and hazards like farm vehicles or animals are common. Use extra caution.
What is the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers in China?
The limit is very strict: 0.02% for drink driving, 0.08% for drunk driving, with severe penalties. Pro-Tip: If you drink, do not drive. Zero tolerance.
What is the standard car return process?
Drive to the designated rental return area, meet a staff member for inspection against the initial report, check fuel and mileage, and complete return paperwork.
What does the "full-to-full" fuel policy mean?
You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. Pro-Tip: Refuel just before returning and keep the receipt. If not, you’ll be charged a high refuelling fee.
What should I do before handing over the keys?
Double-check for personal items, take final photos or a video of the car’s condition and dashboard, and ensure the fuel gauge reads full.
How long does it take for the security deposit to be refunded?
The pre-authorisation is released upon return, but it may take 7-30 business days for the hold to disappear from your credit card, depending on your bank.
What if there is a dispute about new damage at return?
Show your initial inspection photos/video as proof the damage was pre-existing. Don’t sign any admission of fault. Contact QEEQ customer service for mediation if needed.
Can I return the car outside normal office hours?
Generally no, as in-person inspection and paperwork are required. Always return during stated business hours. Check these when booking.
