There are so many rental websites. Which company should I use as a foreigner who doesn't speak Chinese?
For international tourists, your best and most streamlined option is QEEQ. They have an English-language website and app, English-speaking customer service, and are experienced in handling the specific documentation requirements for foreign drivers, including guidance on the Temporary Driving Permit.
How do I book a car on QEEQ as an Indian tourist?
The process is simple:
1. Go to the QEEQ website or download their app.
2. Enter your pickup/drop-off locations and dates.
3. Filter for your desired car type (e.g., Sedan, SUV).
4. During the booking process, you will be prompted about driver requirements. This is where you acknowledge that you will obtain the Chinese Temporary Driving Permit.
5. Select your insurance package.
6. Complete the booking using your international credit card.
What kind of cars are available? I'm traveling with my family of four.
You will find a wide range of options. For a family of four, a standard sedan (like a Volkswagen Lavida or Toyota Corolla) or a compact SUV (like a Haval H6 or Geely Boyue) would be comfortable and economical. Most rental cars in China are automatic transmission.
I see different insurance options like "Basic" and "Full Protection." What is the difference and what do you recommend?
- Basic Insurance: Usually included and covers Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Third-Party Liability, but with a high deductible/excess (e.g., 5,000-10,000 CNY).
- Full Protection / Super CDW: Supplementary insurance offered by QEEQ. It reduces your deductible to zero. Strongly recommended for peace of mind when driving in a foreign country.
The rental company mentions two deposits: a vehicle deposit and a violation deposit. Can you explain?
Yes, this is standard in China.
- Vehicle Security Deposit: A larger amount (e.g., 3,000-8,000 CNY) pre-authorized on your credit card at pickup, released after returning the car in good condition.
- Traffic Violation Deposit: A smaller amount (e.g., 1,000-2,000 CNY) also pre-authorized, held for 30-45 days after rental to cover any potential traffic fines. If there are no violations, it's released automatically.
Will my Indian Visa or Mastercard credit card work for booking and the deposits?
Yes, major international credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted by QEEQ for online booking and for security deposits at the rental counter. Ensure your card has sufficient credit limit for the deposits.
Can I pay with cash or a debit card instead?
It is highly unlikely. A credit card is almost always mandatory for security deposits, as it is the only way rental companies can place a pre-authorization hold.
Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of?
With a reputable platform like QEEQ, fees are transparent. Be mindful of potential extra charges for:
- Additional drivers
- GPS navigation units (though using phone apps is better)
- Child seats
- Returning the car with less fuel than you started with (policy is usually "full-to-full")
Is it cheaper to book in advance or when I arrive?
It is always cheaper and safer to book well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (like Chinese New Year or National Day holidays). Booking ahead guarantees vehicle availability and locks in a better rate.
Can I choose a different drop-off location from where I picked up the car?
Yes, one-way rentals are possible but will usually incur an additional fee. You can easily check this option and the associated cost on the QEEQ booking page.
I'm at the airport rental counter. What is the exact list of documents I need to present?
Have these ready in a folder:
1. Your Original Passport (and a copy)
2. Your newly obtained Chinese Temporary Driving Permit
3. Your Original Indian Driving License (the one used for the permit application)
4. Your rental voucher from QEEQ (digital or printed)
5. The same international credit card you used for the booking
What should I do before I sign the rental agreement?
Even if it's in Chinese, take a moment. Use your phone's translation app (like Google Translate's camera function) to scan and understand key sections related to insurance coverage, fuel policy (it should say 满油取还 - full-to-full), and emergency contact numbers.
The counter staff doesn't speak English. How do I manage the communication?
This is common. Use these tools:
- Translation App: Use an app like Google Translate or Baidu Translate. Speak into it for instant translation.
- QEEQ Customer Service: Call QEEQ's English-speaking support line for major issues.
- Show, Don't Tell: Use gestures, point to your documents and the car. The process is standardized.
What specific things must I check on the car before driving away?
Conduct a thorough inspection:
- Exterior: Walk around and look for scratches, dents, or scuffs. Take a detailed video and photos of every panel, including the roof and bumpers.
- Interior: Check cleanliness, seat functions, and A/C.
- Windshield & Tires: Check for cracks and inspect tire condition.
- Functionality: Test headlights, indicators, and wipers.
- Fuel & Mileage: Confirm the fuel gauge is on "Full" and take a photo of the starting mileage. Ensure any existing damage is noted on the vehicle condition form.
What if I find a scratch that is not on their diagram?
Immediately point it out to the staff. Insist they add it to the official vehicle condition report (the paper with the car diagram) and sign or stamp it before you leave. Your photos and video are your backup proof.
How do I get the car out of the airport parking lot?
The rental staff will usually give you an exit ticket or card to use at the parking gate. Sometimes, they will escort you to the exit. Ask them "怎么出去?" (Zěnme chūqù? - How to get out?) and they will show you.
Should I ask for a specific type of fuel?
Yes, before you leave, ask "加什么油?" (Jiā shénme yóu? - What kind of fuel?). They will tell you the octane number, usually 92 or 95. It's also often written inside the fuel cap.
I'm from India, so I'm used to driving on the left. What are the biggest rule changes in China?
- Drive on the RIGHT: The driver's seat is on the left.
- Right Turn on Red: Generally allowed after stopping and checking for pedestrians and traffic. However, if there is a dedicated right-turn arrow light and it is red, you must wait.
- Pedestrian Priority: Pedestrians have absolute right of way at marked crosswalks.
- No Honking: Horn use is prohibited in most city centers.
How do I understand the road signs? Will they be in English?
On major highways and in large cities, most important signs are bilingual in Chinese and English. On smaller roads, signs may only be in Chinese. Learn a few key characters:
- 出口 (Exit)
- 入口 (Entrance)
- 高速 (Expressway)
- 服务区 (Service Area)
What navigation app should I use? Is Google Maps reliable?
Do not rely on Google Maps. It is often inaccurate and outdated in China. The best navigation apps are Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps (百度地图). Both have English versions, though some features might remain in Chinese.
How do highways (expressways) work in China?
China has an excellent, modern expressway network. The system is tolled:
- When you enter, you pass through a gate and take a ticket.
- When you exit, hand the ticket to the toll booth operator and pay the fee.
- Always use the "人工通道" (Manual Toll) lanes. Do not use "ETC" lanes, as those are for cars with electronic transponders.
How do I pay for tolls?
In the manual lanes, you can pay with cash or, more commonly, by showing your payment QR code from Alipay or WeChat Pay. It's essential to have one of these apps set up.
What about parking in cities? It looks chaotic.
Parking can be challenging:
- Underground Garages: Most shopping malls and hotels have them. You take a ticket and pay before leaving, usually at a payment kiosk or via QR code.
- Street Parking: Only park in clearly marked white rectangular bays. Illegal parking will result in a ticket. Payment is often via QR code on a nearby sign.
- Parking Lots: Designated open-air lots operate similarly to garages.
How do I refuel the car at a gas station?
Gas stations are not self-service. An attendant will help you:
1. Pull up to the pump.
2. Open your fuel cap.
3. Tell the attendant the fuel type and amount. For a full tank, say "加满" (Jiā mǎn). For 95 octane, say "九五号" (Jiǔ wǔ hào).
4. Pay with cash, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.
Are speed limits strictly enforced?
Yes, very strictly. Speed cameras are everywhere. Speed limits are clearly signposted: typically 120 km/h on expressways, 80 km/h on national roads, and 40-60 km/h in urban areas. Stick to the limits.
What are the "must-have" apps for my phone for this trip?
- Navigation: Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps (百度地图)
- Payment: Alipay or WeChat Pay (you can now link international credit cards)
- Translation: Google Translate (download the offline Chinese pack) or Baidu Translate
- Communication: WeChat
- Booking: QEEQ app for rental details and support
What is the driving etiquette like in China?
It can seem aggressive compared to some countries. Drivers may change lanes abruptly. The key is to be a defensive, alert, and predictable driver. Maintain a safe following distance and always use your indicators.
What about roundabouts (traffic circles)?
Yield to traffic already inside the roundabout. Enter when there is a safe gap.
Can I use my phone while driving?
No. It is illegal to hold and use your phone while driving. Use a hands-free mount for navigation.
Are child seats mandatory in China?
Laws are becoming stricter. While enforcement varies, it is highly recommended and in some cities, mandatory for young children to be in a proper child safety seat. You can rent one from QEEQ during booking.
What is the first thing I should do if I have a minor car accident (e.g., a small scratch, no injuries)?
1. Safety First: If possible, move vehicles to the side of the road to not obstruct traffic. Turn on hazard lights.
2. Do Not Argue: Stay calm. Do not admit fault or offer any payment.
3. Document Everything: Take photos of both cars' positions, the damage, and the other driver's license plate.
4. Call the Rental Company: Use their emergency number; they will guide your next steps.
5. Call Police (if advised): The traffic police number is 122.
What if the accident is serious and someone is injured?
1. DO NOT MOVE THE CARS. Preserve the accident scene for the police.
2. Call for help immediately:
- 120: Ambulance
- 122: Traffic Police
3. Call your rental company after dealing with the immediate emergency.
What should I do if my rental car breaks down on the highway?
1. Pull over to the emergency lane as safely as possible.
2. Turn on hazard lights.
3. Place the reflective warning triangle 150 meters behind your car (this is a legal requirement).
4. Everyone should get out and wait behind the safety barrier.
5. Call the roadside assistance number provided by your rental company.
How will I know if I got a speeding ticket or parking fine? And how do I pay for it?
You likely won't know immediately. The authorities will send notification to the rental company, who will use your Traffic Violation Deposit to pay the fine. They will provide you with a receipt or proof of the violation and the deducted amount. This is why the deposit is held for 30-45 days.
I returned the car, but the violation deposit hasn't been released after a month. What should I do?
First, check your email for any communication from QEEQ or the rental provider about a traffic fine. If there's nothing, contact QEEQ's customer service with your booking number. They can investigate the status of your deposit and facilitate its release if there were no violations.
