Driving licence check · DNK → CHN
Can you drive in China with a Danish licence?
No — a Danish licence is not recognized in China.
China does not honour foreign licences or IDPs. You need a local permit before driving — see the exception note below for the practical route.
Local exception
Mainland China is party to neither convention and does not recognize foreign licences or IDPs. Visitors need a temporary Chinese driving permit (obtainable at some airports for short stays).
What to carry
- Your national driving licence (physical card)
- Passport / entry stamp (rental companies ask)
Common questions
Do I need an international driving permit (IDP) in China?
No treaty-based IDP requirement applies, but rules can change — verify locally before driving.
How long can I drive in China as a visitor?
Visit validity is typically limited (commonly 3–12 months) and always ends when you become a resident — residence triggers local exchange or testing rules.
Does this apply to rentals?
Rental companies apply their own paperwork on top of the law and frequently ask for an IDP plus a passport — bring both.
Sources
Other licences in China
Type case, not legal advice: rules change and enforcement varies. Verify with the local transport authority or your embassy before driving. Treaty facts are curated from the UN treaty register and re-verified twice a year. — Fiatmap