What procedures are required to drive to Beijing?
3 Answers
Driving to Beijing requires obtaining a Beijing Entry Permit. Below are the specific details about the Beijing Entry Permit: 1. Validity of the Beijing Entry Permit: Vehicles from outside Beijing entering within the Sixth Ring Road of Beijing (excluding the main road of the Sixth Ring Road) need to obtain this permit, which is valid for 7 days, and 3 days during special periods (such as during the Olympics or National Day). Failure to comply will result in a 3-point deduction and a fine. There are agencies for obtaining the Beijing Entry Permit on various highways and national roads leading into Beijing. 2. Required documents for application: To apply for the Beijing Entry Permit, you need to provide the vehicle's registration certificate within the inspection period, a green environmental protection compliance label or a vehicle exhaust inspection compliance certificate issued by the local municipal environmental protection department, the compulsory traffic insurance label, the inspection compliance label, as well as the driver's license, ID card (or household registration book), and other valid documents.
Last time our whole family drove to Beijing for a trip, we had to prepare quite a few procedures. First, we needed to apply for a Beijing Entry Permit, which can be done on mobile via WeChat mini-programs by entering vehicle information – this permit is required for non-local vehicles entering within the 5th Ring Road. Driver's license and vehicle registration must be carried at all times. Before departure, check if the vehicle insurance and annual inspection are up to date to avoid trouble at checkpoints. Beijing's traffic restriction rules are strict: on weekdays, vehicles are restricted based on license plate tail numbers, so avoid driving on prohibited days. During smog alerts, vehicles failing emission standards are barred entry, so consider switching to a low-emission car in advance. I also recommend filling out permit applications carefully to prevent fines during the trip, and don’t forget to bring cash or ETC for highway tolls. Overall, applying early saves hassle, and packing water and snacks helps during traffic jams.
As a frequent long-distance business traveler who often goes to Beijing for procedures, getting the Beijing Entry Permit is a must. Apply online in advance to avoid queues—download an app or visit the website to fill in your license plate and driver's license details. Note that non-local vehicles have restricted entry times within the Sixth Ring Road. I recommend checking the traffic restriction calendar, as Beijing strictly enforces odd-even license plate rules—don’t drive on the wrong day and delay your plans. Keep all documents handy for peace of mind: a copy of your vehicle registration, ID card, and compulsory insurance slip should be in the car, as checkpoints conduct strict random inspections. Ensure your vehicle meets the Beijing-6 emission standards—older cars shouldn’t risk fines by forcing entry. Using ETC for highway tolls saves time, allowing you to schedule more client meetings. Overall, plan ahead for efficient and hassle-free travel.
