Can right-hand drive vehicles be driven in China?
4 Answers
Generally, right-hand drive vehicles cannot be driven in China. In our country, motor vehicles drive on the right side of the road, while right-hand drive vehicles are designed for left-side driving. When drivers accustomed to right-hand drive vehicles revert to their original driving habits during operation, it significantly increases the probability of traffic accidents. The following are exceptions: Foreign diplomatic missions in China: Right-hand drive vehicles of these institutions can be legally registered and driven domestically. Right-hand drive vehicles with Guangdong-Hong Kong or Guangdong-Macau license plates: These vehicles can be driven in China if they legally obtain the black license plates for Guangdong-Hong Kong or Guangdong-Macau passage.
I remember a friend of mine once bought a right-hand drive car from Japan and excitedly took it out on the road, only to be pulled over and fined by traffic police shortly after. This is because Chinese traffic laws explicitly prohibit driving right-hand drive vehicles on public roads, as our roads follow right-hand traffic rules, and the steering wheel on the left makes it easier to observe and control. The law states that all vehicles must meet left-hand drive standards during registration; otherwise, they won’t even pass licensing, let alone be driven daily. From a safety perspective, driving a right-hand drive car can limit visibility, especially when overtaking, as it’s harder to see oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of accidents. If someone really loves right-hand drive cars, the only option is to have them converted to left-hand drive at a certified modification shop. However, this process is troublesome and costs several thousand yuan, and some cars may suffer performance issues after conversion. My advice to domestic car owners is not to cut corners—following the rules avoids fines and ensures safety. Safety should always come before novelty.
As a long-distance driver, I've personally experienced the inconvenience of driving a right-hand drive car. Once, I had to temporarily drive someone else's right-hand drive luxury car, and even changing lanes on the highway was challenging because the central divider blocked my view. Chinese traffic regulations prohibit right-hand drive vehicles on the road, primarily for safety reasons: in right-hand traffic countries, left-hand drive designs make it easier for drivers to see traffic signs and oncoming vehicles, avoiding collisions. To drive such a car, you must first apply for modifications, but even after modification, it must pass strict tests. Additionally, if you're bringing a car back from abroad, customs will check whether it meets the standards; those that don't can only be stored or scrapped. I highly recommend domestic car owners choose left-hand drive vehicles for easier daily maintenance and to avoid legal disputes. Remember, driving isn't about seeking thrills; following the rules is about protecting yourself and others.
I think driving a right-hand drive car is definitely not feasible in China. Legally, it violates traffic laws, and the vehicle management office simply won't license it. I saw news before about someone secretly driving a right-hand drive car from Hong Kong into the mainland, and it was immediately impounded with penalties, as it disrupts road safety. Right-hand drive design is only suitable for countries that drive on the left, like the UK. But in China, where we drive on the right, the driver's position is incorrect, visibility is poor, and the risks are high. If you really want to drive, choosing a left-hand drive is much more reliable.
