Whether Avis accepts your Chinese driver's license depends on which country you're renting in

Avis will not rent to you using only a Chinese driver's license in most countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. You will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) — a document that translates your Chinese license into multiple languages and is recognized by rental companies and police in over 150 countries. The IDP is not a replacement for your Chinese license; it is a companion document that must be carried alongside your original license.

Some countries have different rules. If you are renting in mainland China, your Chinese license alone is sufficient. If you are renting in Hong Kong or Taiwan, rental companies typically accept a Chinese license plus a certified English translation, though an IDP is still the safest choice. Before booking, contact the specific Avis location where you plan to rent and confirm what documents they require, because policies can vary by branch.

Key Takeaways

  • Avis requires an International Driving Permit alongside your Chinese driver's license when renting outside mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.
  • You obtain an IDP through the traffic police department in your Chinese province or city before you travel — it typically takes one to two weeks.
  • An IDP costs between 100 and 200 Chinese yuan and is valid for one year from the date of issue.
  • Always carry both your original Chinese license and your IDP together; the IDP alone is not a valid driving document.
  • Contact your local Avis branch before booking to confirm their exact requirements, as some locations may ask for additional documents like a certified translation.

How to obtain an International Driving Permit in China

To get an IDP, visit the traffic police department (车管所, chē guǎn suǒ) in the city or province where your Chinese driver's license was issued. You cannot obtain an IDP in a different city. Bring your original Chinese driver's license, your passport, and one passport-sized photo (usually 3.5 cm × 4.5 cm). Some offices may also ask for a completed process form, which you can often read from the traffic police website before you go.

The process typically takes one to two weeks. Some larger cities offer expedited service for an additional fee, reducing the wait to three to five business days. The IDP will be printed on a booklet with pages in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Russian, making it readable to rental agents and police in most countries. Once you receive it, check that all your information is correct — name, license number, and expiration date — before you leave the office.

What Avis will ask for when you rent

At the Avis counter, you will need to present your original Chinese driver's license and your IDP together. The rental agent will also ask for your passport, a credit card in your name (used as a deposit, not charged unless there is damage or a violation), and proof of insurance if you are bringing your own. Do not assume your Chinese auto insurance covers rentals abroad — most does not. Avis offers collision damage waiver and liability coverage at the time of rental, and you can purchase these or decline them depending on your own coverage.

The agent will record your license number and IDP number in their system. If you are under 25 years old, Avis may charge a young driver fee, which varies by location and can range from 15 to 30 dollars per day. If you are over 75, some locations may decline to rent to you or require additional documentation. Ask about these policies when you call ahead to confirm requirements.

Renting in Hong Kong or Taiwan with a Chinese license

If you are renting in Hong Kong, Avis and other rental companies will usually accept your Chinese driver's license plus a certified English translation of the license. You can obtain this translation from a notary public or certified translator in Hong Kong, or you can bring a translation you had made in mainland China — it must be certified, not just a photocopy with handwritten notes. An IDP is still the more straightforward option because it requires no additional translation step.

In Taiwan, the rules are similar: your Chinese license plus a certified English translation is often accepted, but policies vary by rental company. Because Taiwan and mainland China have separate administrative systems, an IDP issued in mainland China may not be recognized by all Taiwanese rental companies. Before booking a rental in Taiwan, contact the specific Avis location and ask whether they accept an IDP issued in mainland China, or whether they require a certified translation instead.

What happens if you drive without the right documents

Driving with only a Chinese license in countries that require an IDP is illegal and can result in fines, vehicle impoundment, or even criminal charges depending on the country and local enforcement. If you are stopped by police and cannot produce an IDP, you may be treated as an unlicensed driver. Your rental car insurance may also be voided if you are found to be driving without the proper documentation, leaving you personally liable for any damage or injuries.

Rental companies conduct background checks after you return the car. If you were cited for driving without a valid license, the company will charge you for any fines and may report the incident to your credit card company. This can result in additional fees and a record that affects future rental bookings.

Alternatives if you cannot get an IDP in time

If your travel date is approaching and you do not have time to obtain an IDP, you have a few options. First, check whether you can delay your trip by one to two weeks to allow time for the IDP process. Second, contact Avis directly and ask whether they offer any exceptions or alternative documents — some locations may accept a certified translation of your Chinese license, though this is less common and not may provide. Third, use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Didi instead of renting a car, which does not require you to hold a local driving license.

If you are renting in mainland China, you do not need an IDP at all — your Chinese license is sufficient for Avis and other rental companies. If you are renting in Hong Kong or Taiwan, a certified English translation may work, but calling ahead to confirm is essential because policies differ by company and location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Chinese license to rent from Avis in the United States?

No. You must have an International Driving Permit alongside your Chinese license. Avis will not rent to you with only a Chinese license, even if you have a certified English translation. The IDP is the document recognized by U.S. rental companies and law enforcement.

How long is an International Driving Permit valid?

An IDP issued in China is valid for one year from the date of issue. If your IDP expires while you are traveling, you will no longer have a valid driving document. Check the expiration date before you book your rental and plan accordingly if you are traveling near the end of the IDP's validity period.

Do I need an IDP if I am renting in mainland China?

No. Your Chinese driver's license alone is sufficient to rent from Avis in mainland China. An IDP is only required when you rent outside mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

What if my Chinese license has expired?

You cannot rent a car with an expired license, even if you have a valid IDP. Your Chinese license must be current. If your license has expired, you will need to renew it at your local traffic police department before you can rent a vehicle.

Can someone else use my IDP to rent a car?

No. An IDP is a personal document tied to your name and license number, just like your driver's license. Only you can use it to rent a vehicle. If someone else tries to use your IDP, the rental company will refuse and may report the attempted fraud.