Navigating Shanghai's vibrant streets has got easier for expats. If you're looking to obtain a local driving license, this guide will walk you through the application process.

Generally, there are three ways to obtain a driver's license — converting an overseas license into a local one, applying for a temporary driving permit, or getting a permanent driver's license by applying from scratch. Below, we outline the steps to get a driver's license in Shanghai.

Contents:

• Converting an overseas driving license into a local one
• Applying for a temporary driving license 
• How to obtain a driving license by applying from scratch 

 

With a valid overseas driving license, you can apply for a Chinese driver's license without taking a full driving course. This involves submitting an application, receiving a medical check-up, and passing a written test on Chinese traffic laws.

For detailed information, see How to convert an overseas driving license into a local one.

 

If you're visiting Shanghai briefly, you can apply for a temporary driving permit, allowing you to legally drive in China without converting your license. This permit is valid for up to one year and is issued based on an existing overseas license. The application process includes identity verification and a test on traffic rules.

For detailed information, see How to apply for a temporary driving permit.

 

For expats in Shanghai, enrolling in a licensed driving school is a feasible way to obtain a Chinese driver's license. Driving schools provide structured training, assist with exam registration, and ensure compliance with local regulations. Below is a step-by-step guide to the process.

To begin, select a licensed driving school that accommodates overseas applicants. Some schools offer courses in English.

For detailed information, see Guide to enrolling in a driving school in Shanghai.

A medical check-up is required to confirm your physical fitness for driving. This includes vision, hearing, and reflex tests. Some driving schools directly arrange the check-up at affiliated hospitals, while others direct students to government-approved medical centers.

Once enrolled, you'll study Chinese traffic laws, road signs, and driving safety. Many schools offer study materials and mock tests to help students prepare for the Subject 1 written exam.

After passing Subject 1, you'll begin hands-on driving lessons at the driving school's training facility, where you'll practice skills such as maneuvering, parking, and navigating various driving scenarios.

After getting through the required practice sessions, you'll be able to schedule an on-campus driving test, known as Subject 2, which evaluates your ability to perform key driving maneuvers in a controlled environment.

The driving test for a manual transmission (C1) license consists of five parts — parallel parking, reverse bay parking, hill start and stop, right-angle turns, and curve driving (S-curve). For an automatic transmission (C2) license, the test consists of four items, excluding stopping and starting on a hill. The passing score is 80/100, and if you fail, you must wait 10 days before retaking the test.

After passing the on-campus test, you'll move on to on-road driving lessons. These sessions are designed to help you master essential driving skills, understand traffic rules, and develop safe driving habits.

Once you've completed the required practice hours, you'll take the road driving skills test, also known as Subject 3, to demonstrate your readiness for real-world driving.

During the test, you will be assessed on your ability to:

• Follow traffic signs and signals
• Change lanes and overtake safely
• Make turns and U-turns correctly
• Park on the side of the road

Before taking the actual road driving test, you are required to complete 24 hours of on-road driving lessons and 16 hours of theoretical training on safety and civil driving. If you fail the test, you must wait 10 days before retaking it.

Before obtaining your license, you must pass a final written test on safe and civil driving practices, known as Subject 4. The exam includes images, animations, and case studies requiring you to identify correct driving behaviors.

Once you pass all required exams, your driver's license will be issued within 5 to 15 working days. You can collect it from your driving school or the designated traffic management office.

Additional Notes:

• Some driving schools offer expedited courses for faster certification.
• English-language support is available at some driving schools.
• Schools often provide practice tests to help students familiarize themselves with the exam format.

Now that you've got your driving license, fasten your seat-belt and get ready to hit the road!

 

How to get a digital driving license 

For your information, a digital version of your license can be used in most situations where a physical card is required. It can be accessed via the official traffic management platform.

For detailed information, see How to get a digital vehicle license.

 

How to renew a driver's license 

A Chinese driver's license is typically valid for six years and must be renewed before expiring.

If your driver's license has been expired for less than one year, you can directly apply for a license renewal.

If your license has been expired for more than one year but less than three years, you should pass the Subject 1 test to be able to restore the validity of your driving license.

For detailed information, see How to renew a driver's license.

Q: If my visa and residence permit have expired, can I still use my Chinese driver's license?

A: Yes.

Q: Can I still exchange my foreign driver's license for a Chinese one after it has expired?

A: Yes. However, you will need to pass the relevant Chinese driver's license exams before you can exchange it. You can apply directly at the nearest vehicle management office.

Q: Are there age restrictions for drivers?

A: Yes. The minimum age requirement for applying for a small car driver's license is 18 years old. If you are 70 years or older at the time of application, you must pass tests for memory, judgment, and reaction abilities before you can apply.

 

Source:  Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Public Security