Can I rent a car in China with a Malaysian driver's license?
No. Chinese traffic regulations do not recognize any foreign driver's licenses or International Driving Permits (IDP) for direct use. You must have a valid Chinese driver's license to drive legally in China. However, as a short-term visitor, you can apply for a 'Temporary Motor Vehicle Driving Permit.'
What is a 'Temporary Motor Vehicle Driving Permit'? Is it the same as a Chinese driver's license?
It is not a full Chinese driver's license but an official document that allows foreign visitors to drive temporarily in China. The validity matches your visa or entry permit duration, up to a maximum of 3 months, and is non-renewable.
Is the application process for the temporary driving permit complicated? What documents are needed?
The process is straightforward if all documents are ready. You need: your original passport, valid Chinese visa or entry stamp, original Malaysian driver's license, a certified Chinese translation of your license, proof of accommodation registration (usually provided by your hotel), and 2-3 passport-sized color photos.
Where can I apply for the temporary permit after arriving in China?
At the local Vehicle Administration Office (车管所) in city-level Public Security Bureaus, or at special counters in major international airports like Beijing Capital or Shanghai Pudong.
How do I get a certified translation of my Malaysian driver's license?
You must use a qualified translation company or notary office, with an official stamp. Self-translation is not accepted. Platforms like QEEQ partner with certified agencies and can arrange the translation for you during the booking process.
Do I need to take a driving test or medical exam for the temporary permit?
Usually, you do not need to take a theory or road test. Some cities may require a simple medical check (primarily vision and color recognition). Check with your local Vehicle Administration Office.
What is the cost of obtaining a temporary driving permit in China?
The administrative fee is low, around RMB 10-30. Additional costs may include photo or health check fees. The translation certification is usually the highest cost, about RMB 150-300.
Can Malaysian citizens entering China visa-free apply for the temporary permit?
Yes. As long as you have entered China legally and have a valid entry stamp in your passport, you can apply. The permit validity will match your visa-free stay (usually 15 days).
What type of vehicles can I drive with the temporary permit?
You can drive small passenger cars (C1) and small automatic transmission cars (C2), covering most sedans, SUVs, and MPVs. Trucks, motorcycles, and large buses are not allowed.
If my friend also wants to drive, does he need a separate permit?
Yes. Every driver must apply for and hold their own Temporary Motor Vehicle Driving Permit. Each driver should be registered with the rental company as an additional driver.
Which platform should I use to book car rentals in China as a Malaysian traveler?
QEEQ is highly recommended. It offers English and Chinese interfaces, supports Malaysian credit cards, provides document translation services, and has bilingual customer support.
Why is QEEQ particularly recommended?
QEEQ addresses key pain points for international renters: certified license translation, easy payment with international credit cards, transparent pricing, wide vehicle selection, and 24/7 bilingual customer service.
How should I choose the right vehicle for my trip?
For city driving, choose economy or compact cars for fuel efficiency and easy parking. For long-distance or mountainous travel, an SUV is better. For families, a 7-seater MPV is ideal. Always opt for automatic transmission if you are new to Chinese traffic.
What is typically included in the rental price?
Daily rental on QEEQ usually covers: vehicle rental fee, basic insurance (third-party liability, compulsory traffic insurance), and often unlimited mileage. Always read the details for any additional services.
Do I have to pay the full amount when booking?
It depends. Some packages require full prepayment for the best rates; others allow pay-at-pickup or a small deposit. QEEQ will clearly state the payment policy for each package.
How far in advance should I book my rental car?
Book at least 1-2 weeks ahead, or 1 month in advance during public holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, National Day) to secure availability and better prices.
What information do I need to provide when booking?
You need the driver's name (matching your passport), valid email and phone number, pick-up and drop-off times/locations, and your flight number if picking up at an airport.
Can I book a one-way rental (pick-up in one city, drop-off in another)?
Yes. Most major rental companies in China allow one-way rentals for an additional fee. QEEQ will automatically calculate and display this cost in your search results.
Can I cancel or modify my booking if my plans change?
Usually yes. QEEQ generally offers flexible cancellation, such as free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up. Always check the specific policy for your chosen package.
How important is the choice of rental company?
Very important. QEEQ partners only with reputable national chains like CAR Inc. or eHi. These companies offer better vehicle conditions, more branches, and reliable emergency support.
What is the typical pick-up process at the rental office?
Show your passport, temporary driving permit, original license and translation, and the credit card used for booking. Read and sign the contract, pay the deposit, inspect the car for damage, familiarize yourself with controls, and collect the keys.
Is a deposit required at pick-up? How much?
Yes. Two deposits are usually required via credit card pre-authorization: vehicle deposit (RMB 3,000-8,000, depending on vehicle class) and traffic violation deposit (RMB 2,000-3,000). Both are refunded if no issues arise.
Must I use a credit card? Are debit cards or cash accepted?
Most companies require a credit card (Visa/Mastercard) in the main driver's name for the deposit. Debit cards or cash are rarely accepted.
What is 'Super CDW' or 'Zero Deductible' insurance? Should I buy it?
'Super CDW' or 'Zero Deductible' insurance covers the standard excess/deductible, so you pay nothing in case of damage. It's highly recommended, especially for unfamiliar road conditions. QEEQ allows you to select this option.
What does basic insurance cover? What is excluded?
Basic insurance covers vehicle damage, third-party liability (usually up to RMB 500,000 or 1 million), theft, and passenger injury. Exclusions include drunk driving, unlicensed driving, off-road use, or unauthorized repairs.
What should I check during the vehicle inspection?
Check the car body for dents/scratches, windshield cracks, tire condition, interior cleanliness, and all lights and controls. Record everything with photos or a timestamped video.
What if my reserved car is unavailable at pick-up?
Reputable companies, especially QEEQ partners, will offer a free upgrade to a similar or better vehicle class at no extra charge.
Can I add extra drivers? What are the requirements and fees?
Yes. Each additional driver must have their temporary permit and be present with documents. An extra driver fee (RMB 20-50 per day) usually applies.
If I'm late for pick-up, will the car still be held for me?
Usually, the car is held for 1-2 hours. If you expect to be late, inform QEEQ customer service or the branch directly. For airport pick-up, providing your flight number ensures they track your arrival.
Will the car have a full tank of fuel?
Chinese rentals typically use 'same-to-same' policy—return the car with the same fuel level as at pick-up. Take a photo of the fuel gauge for records.
What is the biggest difference between driving in China and Malaysia?
The most crucial difference: China drives on the RIGHT, with the steering wheel on the left, unlike Malaysia's left-side driving. Pay special attention at turns and roundabouts.
Which navigation apps should I use in China? Is Google Maps usable?
Google Maps and Waze do not work properly in mainland China. Use local apps such as Gaode Maps (AutoNavi) or Baidu Maps, which provide accurate, real-time data.
How can I get mobile internet/data in China?
Options: activate international roaming with your Malaysian carrier, buy a local SIM card at the airport with your passport, or rent a pocket Wi-Fi device.
How are Chinese highways tolled? How do I pay?
Most highways are tolled. Rental cars usually have ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) devices—just drive through the ETC lane. Fees are deducted and settled when you return the car.
How do I refuel in China?
Gas stations are widespread. Tell the attendant which type of fuel (usually 92 or 95 octane for rental cars) and how much you want. You can pay by cash, Alipay, WeChat Pay, or UnionPay card.
Can Malaysian visitors use Alipay or WeChat Pay?
Yes, both now allow binding international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). Download the apps, complete real-name verification with your passport, and link your card to use QR payments almost everywhere.
Are there many traffic cameras in China? Are speeding fines strict?
Yes, there are many cameras, and enforcement is strict. Speed limits are 100-120km/h on highways and 40-80km/h in cities. Fines start at RMB 200 and may include demerit points.
What should I do if I have a traffic accident on the road?
Stay calm. Turn on hazard lights, place a warning triangle, take photos of the scene and damages. For minor accidents, you may settle on the spot or use the '12123' app, but as a foreigner, it's safest to call the rental company immediately. For serious accidents or injuries, call 110 (police) and 120 (ambulance), then inform the rental company.
Is parking easy in Chinese cities? How do I pay for parking?
City center parking is scarce and expensive. Look for marked spaces or use indoor lots at malls/hotels. Pay via attendant, parking meter, or QR code. Illegally parked cars can be fined or towed.
What should I do if stopped by traffic police?
Lower your window, be polite, show your passport and temporary permit, and answer questions honestly. If your documents are in order, there should be no issue.
Are there any special traffic light rules in China?
Generally standard, but note: if there is no dedicated right-turn arrow, you may turn right on red after yielding to pedestrians and other traffic—unless a 'No Right Turn on Red' sign is posted.
Can I use a mobile phone while driving?
No. Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal and will be caught by cameras. Use a car mount for navigation.
Is honking common in China?
Some cities have frequent honking, but many large cities prohibit unnecessary horn use. Only honk when needed for safety.
What should I do if the car breaks down or has a flat tire?
Contact the rental company's 24-hour roadside assistance number (provided in the contract or on the car). Do not attempt unauthorized repairs.
Can I drive into all Chinese cities, or are there traffic restrictions?
Some major cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen) have restrictions on vehicles with non-local plates, especially during peak hours. Check local regulations and ask the rental staff for advice.
What is the return process for the rental car? What should I pay attention to?
Drive to the designated return location, ensure the fuel matches the pick-up level, have staff inspect the car for new damage, sign the return form, and keep all receipts. Take photos or a video of the car at return.
What if I didn't refill the fuel before returning?
The rental company will charge you for the missing fuel at a premium rate and may add a service fee. It's usually cheaper to refuel yourself before returning.
How are traffic fines or violations during my rental handled?
Traffic violation deposits are kept for 30-45 days after return. If there are no violations, the deposit is refunded. If there are fines, the company deducts the amount and notifies you.
Why does it take so long to refund the violation deposit?
Because traffic violation data from different provinces can take time to synchronize nationwide. Companies need to ensure all potential fines have been checked before refunding.
What should I do if I dispute a post-rental charge, such as damage or traffic fines?
Immediately contact QEEQ customer service. They will mediate with the rental company. Having photos/videos and signed documents from pick-up and return will help resolve disputes.
