If you plan to explore Hainan by car — whether self-driving through tropical coasts or remote mountain roads — obtaining a tourist driving license is essential. China does not accept international driving permits (IDPs), so international visitors must apply for either a temporary permit or license conversion to drive legally.
Here’s everything you need to know to get on the road safely and legally in Hainan.
✅ Who Needs a Tourist Driving License?
Foreign tourists who want to drive rental cars or their own vehicles in Hainan must hold:
A valid Chinese driving license
ORA temporary tourist driving permit issued in China
💡 Note: International Driving Permits (IDP), including those issued under the 1949 or 1968 Geneva Conventions, are not recognized in mainland China, including Hainan.
📝 Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Check Eligibility
You must:
Hold a valid driver’s license issued by your home country
Provide an official Chinese translation of the license (or get it translated on-site)
Possess a valid passport and visa (tourist, business, or other)
Be in generally good health (some cities require a basic health check)
Be visiting short-term (typically under 3 months)
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
✅ Original, valid foreign driver’s license
✅ Official Chinese translation of the license
✅ Passport + valid visa
✅ Passport-sized photos (2–4 copies, white background)
✅ Completed application form (available at local Vehicle Management Office / 车管所)
✅ Health certificate or self-declaration form (depending on local policy)
🗣 Tip: Some vehicle offices in Hainan (especially in Haikou and Sanya) offer on-site translation services for a small fee.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Go to the local Vehicle Management Office (车管所) in Haikou, Sanya, or the city where you are staying
Submit your documents, take a photo, and wait for approval
No written test or driving test is required for most short-term tourist licenses
🕐 Temporary tourist driving permits are typically valid for up to 90 days and are non-renewable.
🌍 Special Notes for Russian & Central Asian Visitors
1. License Recognition
China does not recognize IDPs or domestic licenses from Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, etc.
You must apply for a temporary tourist permit or license conversion
An official Chinese translation of your license is required
2. Driving Rules
Drive on the right-hand side (same as Russia & Central Asia)
Zero-tolerance for alcohol while driving — even small traces can result in fines or detention
Strict enforcement of speed limits, lane discipline, and helmet use for scooters
3. Road Signs & Navigation
Most signs are bilingual (Chinese + English), but English may be limited in rural zones
Use local navigation apps such as Gaode Map (AutoNavi) or Baidu Maps (Google Maps is not fully reliable in China)
4. Driving Style
Chinese traffic can feel chaotic to foreign drivers: quick merges, frequent honking, and unexpected lane changes are common
Drive defensively and calmly; use your horn to signal intent, especially at roundabouts
5. Car Rental & Insurance
Choose only licensed car rental agencies
Confirm that comprehensive insurance covers foreign drivers
Check for emergency numbers and roadside assistance options
6. Emergency Contacts
🚓 Police: 110
🚑 Ambulance: 120
🚒 Fire: 119
🛡️ Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Driving Experience
Apply for your tourist driving license before your trip or on arrival in Haikou/Sanya
Avoid night driving in rural or unfamiliar areas
Always carry:
Your tourist driving permit
Passport
Car rental agreement
Stay hydrated, especially during hot and humid months
If you feel uncomfortable driving, consider hiring a local driver or joining a guided self-drive convoy tour
📌 Summary: What You Need at a Glance
| Item | Required? |
|---|---|
| Original foreign driver’s license | ✅ Yes |
| Chinese translation of license | ✅ Yes |
| Valid passport + visa | ✅ Yes |
| Passport-sized photos | ✅ Yes |
| Application form | ✅ Yes |
| Health check (basic) | ✔️ May be required |
| Driving test | ❌ No |
| Written test | ❌ No |
| Duration of permit | ✅ Up to 90 days |
🧭 Final Thoughts
Driving in Hainan gives you the freedom to explore hidden beaches, rainforest roads, and ethnic towns at your own pace. With clean roads, beautiful landscapes, and improving infrastructure for tourists, Hainan is one of the best places in China for a road trip — as long as you’re licensed and prepared.
So get your tourist license, fasten your seatbelt, and enjoy the tropical drive of a lifetime!