How to Apply for an International Driver's License?
4 Answers
You can choose to answer the questions in Chinese, English, or Korean. The exam covers concepts and knowledge required for road driving. A score of 60 or above is required to pass. When the vehicle is stationary, the test includes operations such as high beam, turn signals, windshield wipers, gear shifting, hill start, right-angle parking, applying the handbrake, releasing the handbrake, and driving forward to the finish line. The test also includes fastening the seatbelt, adjusting the seat and mirrors, signaling before turning, canceling the signal after turning, obeying traffic lights, and avoiding speeding. Pedestrians have the right of way, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, and be capable of driving straight independently.
Let me share my personal experience of obtaining an international driver's license for my self-drive trip to Japan last year. You'll need to prepare your valid original domestic driver's license, ID card, and two one-inch photos (it's better to bring extra color photos). Just drive to the local vehicle management office or designated agency to fill out the application form - it's very simple, just basic information and your purpose for going abroad. I remember the fee was about 80 yuan, and I got notified to pick it up after two or three days, which was quite fast. Key points to note: The international driver's license is valid for one year and must be carried along with your national driver's license, otherwise it counts as unlicensed driving if checked abroad. Also, not all countries recognize this license - check the list of signatory countries to the UN Road Convention before departure (like Japan and the US accept it, but some places like Taiwan, China require other procedures). Having this makes renting and driving cars abroad much easier - it's essential for independent travel.
As a seasoned long-distance driver who frequently travels abroad, I'm quite familiar with the process of obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP). Here's the procedure: Bring your Chinese driver's license, original ID card, and three one-inch passport photos to the nearest vehicle management office for submission. The application form is straightforward, requiring basic personal information and travel plans, with a fee of around 100 RMB. Processing time ranges from same-day service to three working days at most. Remember that an IDP is only valid for one year and must be used in conjunction with your domestic driver's license – otherwise, you may face car rental rejections or other complications. Additionally, it's advisable to study traffic regulation differences before driving in certain countries (like the UK's right-hand drive/left-side traffic) to avoid violations. Having this permit ready makes business trips and self-drive vacations much more convenient and worry-free.
Planning a family road trip abroad? An International Driving Permit (IDP) is very practical. Required materials include your driver's license, photocopy of ID card, and several photos. Visit the DMV in person to complete a simple and quick application form. The fee is generally affordable, ranging from tens to a hundred yuan, and you can get the permit within a week. Valid for one year, it must be used together with your local driver's license to ensure legal driving overseas. Before departure, check if your destination accepts IDP—most of Australia and Europe do—ensuring a safe and worry-free journey for the whole family.
