Can Used Cars from Dubai Be Licensed in China?
2 Answers
Used cars from Dubai can be licensed in China. Here are the steps for licensing a used car from Dubai in China: 1. Purchase insurance: Compulsory traffic insurance must be bought, while other types of insurance can be chosen freely based on the owner's needs. It must be purchased one day before the vehicle is licensed. 2. Pay purchase tax: For imported vehicles, the Customs Import Goods Certificate and its copy must be provided. 3. Undergo criminal investigation inspection. 4. Collect relevant materials: Fill out the Motor Vehicle Registration Application Form and submit all required documents. 5. Vehicle inspection: After passing the inspection, you can proceed to license the vehicle with the collected materials.
I've heard some experiences about this from friends. I have a colleague who worked in Dubai two years ago and wanted to bring back the Mercedes he drove there, thinking it would save money and he couldn't bear to sell it. It turned out to be a huge hassle! First, you have to consider the car's age and emission standards. China currently follows the China VI standard, and although Dubai has many luxury cars, their emissions might not meet the requirements. The car also needs to be converted from right-hand drive to left-hand drive, which is costly. Add to that import taxes, VAT, and a pile of customs paperwork—even hiring an agent cost tens of thousands. In the end, it barely passed, but the registration process took a month due to inspections, permits, and proving the car's origin. In short, it might be technically possible, but unless the car is exceptionally good or holds sentimental value, it's far more hassle-free to buy a used car domestically. I recommend consulting a professional import company rather than trying to figure it out yourself.
