Overseas drivers as well as those from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan no longer need to complete a physical examination before they apply for a provisional driving permit in the Chinese mainland, according to the country's Ministry of Public Security.
All overseas drivers required to apply for a provisional driving permit is their ID, their driver’s license with a translated copy and a one-inch color bareheaded photo, according to rules which went into effect on September 20. They can only apply for a permit to drive C1 passenger vehicles, sedans and SUVs.
According to the ministry, persons staying in the mainland for more than three months can be issued a driving permit valid for up to one year. For shorter-term visitors, permits will be valid for three months.
Service centers are currently being set up at airports, cruise terminals, auto exhibitions and free trade zones across the nation to facilitate license applications from overseas drivers. Drivers can get their permits at counters of these centers.
Previously, drivers would have to undergo a physical examination before receiving a license.