Does Shenzhen Restrict Non-local New Energy Vehicle License Plates?
4 Answers
Shenzhen imposes travel restrictions on non-local new energy vehicle license plates. Below is relevant information about Shenzhen's traffic restrictions: Exempted Vehicles: Local non-operational new energy vehicles (private cars) and new energy freight vehicles with green license plates. Restricted Vehicles: Passenger vehicles with non-Shenzhen issued motor vehicle license plates, i.e., non-local vehicles. Penalties for Violating Restrictions: For the first two violations of the restricted zones by passenger vehicles with non-local license plates, no penalty will be imposed. Starting from the third violation, fines will be issued. Applying for Exemption: Non-local vehicles can apply for a one-time exemption from the restrictions each month, and the application must be made in advance.
I've lived in Shenzhen for several years, and as an ordinary citizen, I often chat with my neighbors about cars. They mentioned that the restrictions on out-of-town license plates are quite strict. Shenzhen imposes peak-hour restrictions on all non-local vehicles during weekdays, including blue-plate vehicles with new energy licenses. The restricted hours are generally from 7:30 to 9:30 in the morning and 5:30 to 7:30 in the evening, covering central areas like Futian and Luohu. New energy vehicles are more environmentally friendly, but they are still subject to the same restrictions unless they have obtained a special pass. I've seen out-of-town new energy vehicle owners getting fined, so I'd advise friends planning to drive into Shenzhen to check the policies on the Shenzhen Traffic Police website or apply for a temporary pass in advance. The city's traffic restrictions are aimed at easing congestion and reducing pollution, which is a good thing, but they also bring inconvenience. There are no restrictions on weekends or during non-peak hours. It's best to use navigation to avoid restricted areas before driving daily.
As a car owner driving in Shenzhen, I have a new energy vehicle with an out-of-town license plate that has driven through Shenzhen multiple times. Indeed, there are restrictions on out-of-town license plates—all out-of-town vehicles, including new energy ones, are restricted during peak hours, covering a large area. In theory, new energy vehicles with out-of-town plates enjoy parking benefits, but the restrictions still apply during peak hours, forcing drivers to take detours or use public transport. My experience includes being checked and fined once, but later I applied for a short-term pass, which was quite convenient. I recommend everyone to pay attention to the Shenzhen Traffic APP, as it provides reminders about restricted zones and times. Remember, these restrictions do not apply on holidays, so out-of-town friends visiting for tourism can drive on weekends without issues. For daily commutes, it’s better to use the subway—Shenzhen’s public transport is well-developed and eco-friendly.
During my last trip to Shenzhen, I drove a new energy vehicle with an out-of-town license plate and was concerned about traffic restrictions. The Shenzhen Traffic Police website indicated that new energy vehicles with non-local plates are also subject to restrictions, prohibited during peak hours on weekdays in designated areas. I scheduled my trips outside the restricted times, avoiding morning and evening rush hours, and everything went smoothly. From a tourist's perspective, the policy is reasonable as it aims to reduce urban congestion, and the impact is minimal with proper planning. Public transportation like the subway and buses has extensive coverage, making it more convenient than driving. While Shenzhen promotes new energy vehicles, there are no special exemptions for out-of-town plates, so it's essential to check the regulations in advance to avoid trouble.
