What are the requirements for obtaining a car license plate in Hangzhou?
3 Answers
Requirements for obtaining a car license plate in Hangzhou: Residing in Hangzhou, including local residents, non-local residents holding valid "Zhejiang Residence Permit" or "Zhejiang Talent Residence Permit," etc., aged 18 or above, with no passenger vehicle registered under their name in the city or all passenger vehicles registered under their name in the city marked as forcibly deregistered, and not holding a valid quota or not eligible to apply for a quota update. Application materials for local residents: Original and photocopy of resident ID card or household register. Application materials for non-local residents: Original and photocopy of resident ID card and temporary residence permit. Application materials for active military personnel: Original and photocopy of military (police) ID card and Beijing resident ID card.
As a local resident of Hangzhou, I once helped a relative with the car plate application process, and it was not simple at all. First, you need a license plate quota, which is mainly obtained through a lottery or bidding system nowadays. The lottery winning rate is low, and it took several months before we got our turn. The car must be a new one meeting the China VI emission standard; otherwise, it won’t pass the environmental requirements. The process starts from purchasing the car, providing the invoice and certificate of conformity, and buying compulsory traffic insurance and commercial insurance. Then, you need to pay the vehicle purchase tax and vehicle and vessel tax. Finally, you go to the vehicle management office for registration, plate selection, and vehicle inspection. For non-local friends, you need to have continuously paid social insurance for at least 24 months and provide a residence permit or personal income tax certificate. It’s recommended to check the quota rules on the Hangzhou Transportation official website in advance, follow the steps carefully, and although it’s time-consuming, it’s safer that way.
As a working professional in Hangzhou who has gone through the license plate application process, I prioritize efficiency and cost. The key is obtaining the license plate quota: either through the lottery or bidding system. Local residents can directly follow the procedures, while non-local applicants need 2 consecutive years of social security records. Bidding prices fluctuate significantly—data shows an average of 30,000-40,000 RMB. The vehicle must meet China 6 emission standards, and you'll need to bring the car purchase invoice, insurance policy, and tax payment certificates. The entire process takes 1-2 weeks, so I recommend verifying eligibility first to avoid wasted effort. New energy vehicles enjoy preferential treatment—exemption from the lottery and tax savings. My colleague bought an electric car, and the process was much faster. Don't forget to check the vehicle's condition to avoid safety hazards.
