Chances are, the average foreigner living in Beijing will never need to visit the Beijing Motor Vehicle Administration (BMVA) during their stay. However, for those who are able and interested in driving a motor vehicle legally in Beijing, it is a rite of passage to go through the doors of this building to acquire the documentation needed to do so. Let’s go over the details you will need.

If you have inquired the steps needed to obtain your Chinese driver’s license, you will need to prepare the necessary documents such as originals and copies of your identification documents (passport and visa/residence permit), foreign driver’s license, color photos, registration form of temporary residence, and health certificate (physical exam). After that preparation, you will need to visit the BMVA (address listed below) in south Beijing. Getting there is a little challenging for those who aren’t used to walking over 3 km from the subway station. Actually, if you take the bus from the nearest subway station, it’s about 30 minutes with traffic. From the Yizhuang Subway Line, get off at the Xiaocun station and get out from Exit A or B. You will then cross the street to the opposite side of the large home furnishings superstore to the Chengwaicheng (城外诚站) bus stop, then take Bus No. 93 for two stops. Get off at Shibalidiannanqiao (十八里店南桥) bus stop and walk back against traffic for about 150 m and make a left when you see a uniquely squared grey and blue windowed building.

The office hours for the Beijing Motor Vehicle Administration are 08:30-20:00 M-F and 09:00-16:00 Sat-Sun. As you enter the main building, enter through the left and walk on the left side of the hall towards the restrooms to the Service Hall of Foreign Affairs Service. Yes, it may seem peculiar at first, but trust these directions. Once you walk past the narrow hall, you will enter the office that is relatively deserted compared to the main hall waiting area.

Make sure you have your documents. For any inquiries, you may ask the desk attendant who has a fair grasp of English. After presenting your documents and filling out the form, you will receive a waiting number. When your turn comes, simply approach the counter to start your application for obtaining your driver’s license. You will likely make an appointment to take a computer test that requires a minimum 90% score to pass.

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/