How to Drive for Ride-Hailing Services with a Non-Local License Plate?
3 Answers
Carry the relevant documents, first make an appointment on the local traffic police official website, then fill out the corresponding license plate change and transfer-out information to complete the transfer-in procedures. Log in to the ride-hailing platform, select the city to join, fill in personal and vehicle-related information, and wait for the ride-hailing platform to approve.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I understand the significant hassles of using an out-of-town license plate for ride-hailing services. Current ride-hailing platforms like DiDi or T3 Mobility require vehicles to be locally registered, primarily due to policy regulations—cities impose strict controls to manage convenience, prevent out-of-town vehicles from taking local jobs, or causing traffic chaos. If your license plate isn’t local, the system will likely reject your registration outright, preventing account creation. I tried this in Beijing and later learned from the transport bureau that unless you apply for a temporary operating permit—which requires a pile of documents, including local social insurance records—it’s time-consuming and costly. The risks are high too: fines of hundreds or even thousands if caught driving illegally, and vehicle impoundment is worse. I’d advise checking local policies first; some smaller counties might be more lenient, but it’s best not to take the risk. Alternatively, without a local plate, consider relocating or exploring other options like delivery or carpooling to earn some income. Don’t break the rules for short-term convenience—it could harm your credibility in the long run.
As an ordinary driver who has worked in ride-hailing, I've personally experienced this. It's really tough to operate in the city with a non-local license plate. Platforms like Amap or Caocao Chuxing only accept locally registered vehicles, and registration is impossible. Once, I tried to secretly accept orders, but got caught and fined 500 yuan. Later, I learned some tricks: you can rent a local-plate car or borrow one from a friend, but the rent isn't cheap—over 1,000 yuan a month; or you can target remote suburban areas where policies are looser and supervision is less strict. But I don't recommend forcing your way—it's too risky, with fines, points deducted, and even impacts on your driver's license. A more practical approach is to check online for local small platforms. Some new apps have lower requirements for license plates, and although there are fewer orders, it's a way to start. In short, don't rush. Keep an eye on the open policies of the transportation department. Some places are now piloting relaxed restrictions. Waiting for opportunities is better than driving recklessly.
