Can I rent a car in China with my Spanish (EU) driving licence?
No. China does not recognise any foreign driving licence or the International Driving Permit (IDP). You need a “Temporary Chinese Motor Vehicle Driving Licence” to drive legally in the country.
What is the Temporary Chinese Driving Licence and how do I apply for it as a Spanish tourist?
It is a permit specifically for short‑term visitors with a foreign licence. You can apply at traffic police offices in major airports or at the main Vehicle Administration Office in the city. You must present your passport, Chinese visa, Spanish driving licence, an official Chinese translation of your licence, proof of accommodation, photos, and pass a brief medical check.
Which specific documents do I need to apply for the temporary Chinese licence?
Your original passport with Chinese visa, your original Spanish driving licence, a sworn Chinese translation of your licence, proof of accommodation registration (provided by the hotel), passport‑style photos, and you must pass a basic eyesight, hearing and colour‑perception check.
Do I need to legalise and certify my Spanish licence before translating it?
Double legalisation is not mandatory. Normally a certified translation done in China by an authorised company or notary is sufficient. Check the latest requirements at the place where you will apply.
Is the International Driving Permit (IDP) valid in China?
No, it is not valid in China. Only the temporary Chinese driving licence is legally recognised for tourists.
Where is it better to apply for the temporary licence: at the airport or in the city?
The best option is to do it as soon as you land at a major international airport such as Beijing or Shanghai, where the process is fast and adapted to foreigners. Otherwise, you will have to go to the city’s main Vehicle Administration Office.
How much does the temporary Chinese licence cost?
The administrative fee is around 10 RMB. The medical check and photos may add about 50–100 RMB. In total, it is usually under 150 RMB (around 20 euros).
Does the temporary licence allow me to drive any type of vehicle?
No. It only allows you to drive the same category of vehicle as your Spanish licence. For example, if you are only allowed to drive passenger cars in Spain, the same applies in China.
How far in advance should I prepare the documents?
You can arrange the translation of your licence before the trip, but the other documents can only be obtained in China. Plan to apply for the temporary licence on your first day after arrival.
Why is it recommended that Spanish tourists book through QEEQ?
QEEQ is an international platform designed for tourists: it offers customer support in English, accepts foreign Visa/Mastercard cards, helps with the temporary licence and licence translation process, and provides easy‑to‑understand insurance options.
What costs are usually included in a car rental in China?
They usually include the daily rental fee, basic insurance, administrative charges, and two deposits: one for vehicle damage and another for possible traffic fines.
How much are the deposits and how are they charged?
The damage deposit is usually between 3,000 and 8,000 RMB and the fines deposit between 1,000 and 3,000 RMB. These amounts are normally blocked (pre‑authorised) on your card and released after you return the car and it is confirmed that there are no damages or fines.
Can I pay everything with my Spanish credit card?
Yes. Both the booking and the deposits can be paid with Visa/Mastercard at major suppliers and via QEEQ. In smaller cities or with local companies they may require a Chinese card or mobile payment.
Do I necessarily need Alipay or WeChat Pay?
They are not mandatory for renting, but they are recommended for daily payments (parking, tolls, fuel). You can try activating Alipay Tour Pass before your trip.
What type of insurance should I take? Is basic insurance enough?
No. Basic insurance has high excesses and limited coverage. Always choose full coverage or zero‑excess insurance to be fully protected.
What type of car is most advisable in China?
A compact car or small automatic SUV is the most practical for driving and parking in Chinese cities. Only choose a large SUV if you are going to rural or mountainous areas.
Should I pay attention to mileage limits when booking?
Most rentals in China include unlimited mileage, but always check the conditions, as some cheap offers may have a daily limit.
How far in advance can I cancel my booking?
QEEQ usually allows free cancellation up to 24–48 hours before pickup. Always check the specific policy before booking.
Which documents must I present when picking up the car?
Your original passport, temporary Chinese driving licence, Spanish driving licence, international credit card and the booking confirmation.
What should I do if the rental staff do not speak English or Spanish?
Use translation apps (Google Translate, Microsoft Translator), show your QEEQ booking, and if communication is difficult, call QEEQ’s English‑language customer service.
Which parts of the car should I photograph or record when picking it up?
Take 360º photos and videos, focusing on the bodywork, bumpers, windows, mirrors, tyres, wheels, interior and the odometer (kilometres and fuel level).
What does a “full to full” fuel policy mean?
You must return the car with a full tank, as it was when you picked it up. Keep the receipt from your last refuelling as proof.
Which details in the rental agreement should I pay special attention to?
Maximum mileage, insurance coverage and excesses, emergency and accident numbers, and the place and time of return.
Can I add an additional driver?
Yes, but they must also have a temporary Chinese driving licence and be present with their documents. This may incur an extra charge.
Do rental cars include ETC for tolls?
Almost all cars are equipped with an ETC device for automatic tolls. Confirm this when you pick up the car. Toll costs are deducted from your deposit after you return the vehicle.
What happens if the model I booked is not available?
The company must offer you a car of the same or a higher category at no extra cost. If not, insist on your rights. Contact QEEQ for mediation if there are problems.
How do Chinese traffic rules differ from Spanish ones?
China also drives on the right. However, right of way and compliance with rules can be less strict in practice. Always drive defensively.
Does Google Maps work in China? Which navigation app should I use?
Google Maps is not reliable in China. Use Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps (百度地图), which have English versions and up‑to‑date data.
How can I understand traffic signs in China?
On motorways and in major cities, most signs are in Chinese and English. Symbols are international, but it is advisable to review local road signs before your trip.
How do tolls work on Chinese motorways? Do I need ETC?
Motorways are toll roads and ETC is the most convenient option. If your car has ETC, use the marked lane. If not, pay in cash or via apps at the manual toll booths.
What are driving restrictions in Chinese cities and how do they affect me?
Many cities (Beijing, Shanghai, etc.) restrict vehicle access according to licence plate and day of the week. Local navigation apps help you avoid restricted areas and times.
How should I react to aggressive driving or frequent horn use?
Stay calm. Horns are often used as a warning rather than aggression. Do not leave large gaps between cars and always drive defensively.
Is fuel self‑service?
No. Station staff will serve you. Indicate the fuel type (usually 92 or 95), the amount or simply ask to “fill up” (“Jia Man”). You can pay in cash, by card or by mobile.
Is parking easy and how do I pay for it?
In big cities, parking is difficult and expensive. It is better to use private or attended car parks. On‑street parking is often paid via apps, which can be complicated without a Chinese phone number.
Can I use my mobile phone while driving?
No. Using a mobile phone in your hand while driving is illegal and there are many cameras. Use a holder and hands‑free for calls or navigation.
Are there many speed cameras?
Yes, there are lots of them. Always respect speed limits. Local navigation apps give real‑time speed camera alerts.
What should I do if I have a minor accident with no injuries?
Stop in a safe place, place warning signs, take photos of the damage and the position of the vehicles, exchange details and call the rental company’s assistance number. Do not pay anything on the spot.
What should I do if there are injuries in an accident?
Stop the vehicle, signal the area, do not move the car, call 122 (traffic police) and 120 (ambulance), help the injured if you can and wait for the police. Also inform the rental company.
What should I do if the car breaks down?
Pull over in a safe place, place the warning triangle and call the 24‑hour assistance number shown in your rental agreement. Do not try to repair the vehicle yourself.
What should I do if the traffic police stop me for a check?
Stay calm, lower the window, keep your hands visible and present your passport, temporary Chinese licence and rental agreement. If there is a language barrier, use a translation app or call QEEQ.
Which emergency numbers should I save?
110 (police), 122 (traffic accidents), 120 (ambulance), the rental company’s 24‑hour number, QEEQ support, and the Spanish consulate in China.
Is the insurance claim process complicated in case of an accident?
Not if you have full insurance. Inform the police and the rental company, gather all documents, and they will handle the claim process.
What should I do if the car is stolen or broken into?
Call 110 (police) immediately and request a police report. Notify the rental company as soon as possible.
What should I do before returning the car to get my deposits back without issues?
Fill the tank, clean the car, arrive on time, carry out the inspection together with the staff and keep the return slip.
How long does it take for deposits to be released on my card?
The vehicle deposit is usually released within 1–2 weeks. The fines deposit is released after 30–45 days, once it is confirmed that there are no pending penalties.
What should I do if I receive a fine after returning to Spain?
The rental company will use the fines deposit to pay it and will send you proof of payment. If there is any money left over, it will be refunded to you.
What should I do if there is a dispute over damages when I return the car?
Use the photos and videos you took at pickup as evidence. If you cannot reach an agreement, contact QEEQ for mediation.
Can I return the car in another city?
Yes, but there is usually an extra one‑way fee for returning it to a different location. You must indicate this when booking so the system can calculate the cost.
How long should I keep the rental documents?
Keep all documents (contract, receipts, photos) for at least 6 months in case of any later claims.
Any final tips for Spanish tourists who want to drive in China?
Stay calm, be patient, always drive defensively and enjoy this unique cultural experience. With good preparation, driving in China can be an unforgettable adventure.
