Driver's License Translation: A Chinese License Abroad and a Foreign License in China

Driving on a license from another country usually means getting it translated — and often a certified (sealed) translation at that. The two most common situations: using your Chinese license abroad, and exchanging a foreign license for a Chinese one. Here's how each works.

Using a Chinese license abroad

Many countries and car-rental companies ask for a certified translation of your Chinese license (and sometimes an International Driving Permit, IDP). The exact requirement varies by country — before you travel, check the destination's and the rental company's rules to decide which language to translate into and whether you need an IDP.

Using a foreign license in China (exchange)

To exchange a foreign license for a Chinese one at the vehicle administration office (车管所), you generally need a certified Chinese translation of the license with a translation seal. Requirements vary by city — confirm what's needed with the local office before you go.

How we help

• Certified license translation in both directions, with a translation seal, formatted for the accepting authority.
• Common languages are all covered; ask us about less common ones.

One reminder: rules vary by place — always follow the current requirements of the destination country or the local vehicle administration office. Want the difference between certified and notarized? See Certified vs Notarized Translation.

Tell us the issuing country, the purpose (driving abroad / exchanging in China) and the target language, and we'll quote for what you need.