The thought of driving in Beijing to many foreigners does not usually receive a high level of excitement. However, it does become not only more convenient but necessary for foreigners who have families and are living in Beijing for an extended period of time. The steps for getting a driver’s license in Beijing is relatively simple, so long as you already possess a valid driver’s license from abroad and can take a couple days off to complete the process. More detailed information follows below.

In short, the process requires one to submit documents, schedule an appointment at the Foreign Affairs Department of the Beijing Motor Vehicle Administration (BMVA), equivalent to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles), and passing a 100 question test (while scoring 90% or higher to pass).

Materials to Submit:

Driver’s license application form (available at the BMVA)

Original foreign driver’s license and a photo copy

Note: You must attach a translation. The form is available at the BMVA and can be translated yourself.

Original and photo copy of applicant’s passport and visa

Note: The visa must be valid for over 90 days. Those with less than 90 days will have to apply for a temporary driver’s license.

(5) 1-inch color photo with a white background

Original and photo copy of your “Registration Form of Temporary Residence”

Original health certificate issued by a hospital of county level or higher

Note: You will provide one of your 1-inch color photos and will undergo a basic health test consisting of reading an eye chart and checking for colorblindness.

The Foreign Affairs Department of the Beijing Motor Vehicle Administration:

北京市公安局交管局车管所

北京 朝阳区 南四环东路18号 十八里店南桥

No. 18 Southeast 4th Ring Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100023

Tel: 86-10-87625150

English Website: http://www.bjjtgl.gov.cn/publish/portal1/

After producing your required materials, visit a hospital to get your health certificate. Afterwards, you will need to make two separate trips to the BMVA. At your first visit you will submit your required materials and make an appointment to return to take the written test. Once you make an appointment, inquire about a study book that you may purchase on the second floor of the main hall.