What are the restrictions on out-of-town license plates in Shanghai in 2021?
3 Answers
2021 Shanghai out-of-town license plate restrictions introduction: Private cars with out-of-town license plates are not allowed on the inner ring elevated roads, outer ring, and areas beyond the outer ring during peak hours from 7:00 to 9:00 in the morning and 4:00 to 6:00 in the evening. At other times, they can travel freely. Elevated roads, some river-crossing bridges, and tunnels prohibit the passage of small passenger cars with out-of-town license plates, small passenger cars with temporary license plates, unoccupied taxis, and small passenger cars driven by drivers in the probationary period (except Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays). Below are the road usage guidelines for restricted vehicles: 1. Passing through restricted intersections: Vehicles with restricted tail numbers can go straight through intersections connected to restricted roads but cannot turn left or right onto restricted roads. 2. Emergency assistance: In case of emergencies such as medical emergencies, you can seek help from traffic police on duty at the intersection. If you receive a ticket, you can report the actual situation to the Chengdu Traffic Management Bureau. 3. No borrowing of bus lanes: During restricted hours, the second ring road will reserve bus lanes, allowing only buses, registered school buses, and company transport vehicles. Restricted vehicles are not allowed to use these lanes.
Having driven in Shanghai for many years, I know the restrictions on out-of-town license plates in 2021 were quite strict. Especially during weekday rush hours—from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM—vehicles with out-of-town plates were not allowed on the Inner Ring Elevated Road and major surface road areas. Violations resulted in a 200-yuan fine and 3 penalty points. When I drove an out-of-town car, I had to carefully avoid those times; otherwise, getting stuck in the city center would be a headache. I recommend using map apps to plan routes in advance or switching to subways and buses, which saves both time and money. Additionally, parking in restricted zones is also limited—finding a spot takes time, especially during peak commuting hours, and parking fees increase. Overall, the restrictions help smooth traffic in the city, but drivers with out-of-town plates need to prepare backup plans, such as traveling during off-peak hours or considering carpooling. Remember, the policy is effective year-round, though it may relax slightly during holidays. Understanding the rules clearly can minimize driving hassles.
As a Shanghai resident, I feel the 2021 restrictions on out-of-town license plates have significantly impacted daily commuting. During peak hours, vehicles with non-local plates are prohibited from entering the inner ring road, from 7 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM. Violators driving within the restricted area face fines and penalty points. I've seen friends with out-of-town cars having to detour or avoid peak hours when visiting. While the policy aims to reduce congestion and pollution—which I understand and support—it does increase costs for non-local plate owners. They spend more time planning routes and struggle to find parking downtown, risking tickets. I recommend regular non-local plate drivers check traffic bureau notices in advance to avoid restricted zones and times. They can drive during non-peak hours but must obey traffic signals and avoid rushing. Overall, the restrictions haven't changed much—just no entry during peaks—so adjust driving habits by using navigation apps or public transit instead.
