Driver's License in China: How to Get a License on Hainan Island?

To rent a car in China, you must have a Chinese driver's license. International driver's licenses are not recognized in China.

On Hainan, you can obtain a temporary driver's license without taking an exam or undergoing a medical check-up, or you can get a permanent license. Therefore, if you don’t plan to relocate to China permanently, your best option is a temporary license, which will give you the freedom to travel around the island.

Requirements for a Temporary License on Hainan:

1-     Passport

2-     Your national driver's license

3-     A certified translation of your driver's license, done by a specialized Chinese translation company

4-     1inch photo (can be taken on-site)

When you visit the traffic police office (DMV), you will also need:

• WeChat or Alipay mobile app to pay for the photo and state fee
• A Chinese phone number
• A local Hainan registration address (a hotel registration will work)

The payment apps and phone number can belong to a friend if needed.

Procedure at the DMV:

1. Get a ticket at the counter.
2. Take a photo in the photo booth (cost: 20 RMB).
3. Proceed to the designated counter with your ticket and submit all documents (it’s recommended to make photocopies in advance), along with your local address and Chinese phone number.
4. Pay the 10 RMB fee and wait for your license to be issued. The temporary license is valid throughout Hainan Province.

Additional Notes:

If applying in Haikou, you’ll need to go to Building No. 1, watch a short video, sign a register, and then return to the counter to receive your license. In Sanya, this step is currently not required.

The entire process is completed in a single visit. 

While the procedure is straightforward, you’ll need assistance from a local translation company. They will:

• Provide a professional translation of your license

• Guide you to the correct DMV office based on your location.

• Support you throughout the process.

We recommend:

Haikou Niu Smart Consulting Co., Ltd.

They are a long-standing company with competitive prices, professional service, and for our readers using the promo code seaviewhainan.ru, they offer free express delivery across Hainan.

Contact them using the details in our guide,  and enjoy your travels around the island