Self-Drive Car Rental Guide in China

Flexible Intercity Travel for Business Visitors. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and flexible self-drive experience across China.

1. Preparation for Car Rental

1.1 Required Documents

• • International Driving Permit (IDP) or Notarized License Translation: China does not recognize foreign driver’s licenses. A notarized English translation of your license is required; some agencies accept IDPs.
  • Passport: Present a valid passport during pickup.
  • Credit Card: For paying the deposit (typically ¥3,000–10,000, refunded after return).

1.2 Rental Platforms

• • Domestic Providers:
    • China Auto Rental: Nationwide coverage, diverse vehicle options, English interface.
    • EHi Car Rental: 24/7 English customer service, flexible drop-off locations.
  • International Brands:
    • Hertz: Available in major cities, ideal for users familiar with global services.

1.3 Vehicle Selection Tips

• • Short Business Trips: Choose economy cars (e.g., Volkswagen Lavida) for fuel efficiency.
  • Group Travel: Opt for MPVs (e.g., Buick GL8) or SUVs (e.g., Toyota Highlander) for space.

2. Rental Process

2.1 Online Booking

1. 1. Visit the rental platform’s website or app, select the pickup city, date, and time.
   2. Filter vehicles by type and price, reviewing included insurance.
   3. Enter driver details (name, license number, contact info) and confirm payment.

2.2 Vehicle Pickup & Inspection

• • At Pickup:
    1. Show your passport, license translation, and credit card to sign the rental agreement.
    2. Inspect the vehicle with staff, noting scratches, tire conditions, and fuel level—take photos for reference.
  • Insurance Check: Verify coverage for collision damage and third-party liability.

2.3 Vehicle Return

• • Return the car to the designated location on time; staff will reinspect the vehicle.
  • Deposit refunds take 3–7 business days after confirming no damages.

3. Driving Rules & Precautions

3.1 Traffic Regulations

• • Right-Side Driving: China drives on the right, opposite to some countries.
  • Speed Limits:
    • Highways: 100–120 km/h; urban roads: 40–80 km/h.
    • Strictly follow speed signs near schools and hospitals.
  • DUI Laws: Drunk driving (BAC > 20mg/100ml) is strictly prohibited, punishable by detention, fines, and license revocation.

3.2 Driving Tips

• • Navigation Apps: Use Amap or Baidu Map for real-time traffic and voice guidance.
  • Parking:
    • Park in paid lots in urban areas to avoid fines.
    • Highway rest areas offer free parking and charging stations for electric vehicles.
  • Fueling: Gas stations primarily offer 92 and 95 octane gasoline, with mobile payment options.

3.3 Emergency Situations

• • In case of accidents, contact the rental company and local police immediately, preserving evidence.
  • For breakdowns, call the rental company’s 24/7 roadside assistance (e.g., China Auto Rental: 400-616-6666).

4. Benefits & Recommendations

• Flexibility: Tailor your itinerary to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Economical for group travel compared to trains or flights.
• Cultural Immersion: Enjoy scenic routes and gain insights into local landscapes.

Pro Tip: Start with cities like Chengdu or Hangzhou for simpler traffic, then tackle more complex roads as you gain confidence.

Last Updated on 1 week