Car rental in China

If your driving licence is issued in the EU/EEA, it is accepted throughout China without an international permit. For licences in non-Latin scripts (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Japanese), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside your original licence. It's always a good idea to carry an IDP as a backup.

Car rental prices in China are generally lowest during the off-season (November–March for European destinations). Booking 4–8 weeks in advance can also secure significantly lower rates. Avoid major holidays and local events when demand peaks. Comparing prices on Cars Scanner helps find the best deals year-round.

Most rental companies in China offer a grace period of 30–59 minutes. Beyond that, you will be charged for an additional day. To avoid unexpected costs, plan your return time carefully. If you know you'll be late, contact the rental office — they may extend your booking at a lower rate than the late-return penalty.

The excess (or deductible) is the maximum amount you'd pay out of pocket if the car is damaged or stolen. In China, this typically ranges from €500 to €2,000 depending on the vehicle class. You can reduce or eliminate the excess by purchasing additional coverage such as Super CDW or booking full-coverage insurance through Cars Scanner.

Typical speed limits in China:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h
• Rural roads: 80–90 km/h
• Motorways: 110–130 km/h

Speed limits may vary by road type and weather conditions. Radar cameras are common — always observe posted limits. Speeding fines in China can be substantial.

Many rentals in China come with unlimited mileage, especially for weekly bookings. However, some economy deals may include a daily cap (e.g. 200–300 km/day) with extra charges per kilometre beyond the limit. Always check the mileage policy in your booking confirmation — unlimited mileage offers the best value for longer trips.

If you receive a traffic fine while driving in China, the rental company will typically forward it to you along with an administration fee (€20–50). Pay the fine promptly to avoid escalation. If you disagree, you can appeal through the issuing authority. Always photograph any unclear signage as evidence. Keep your rental agreement handy for reference.

The security deposit is typically released within 7–14 business days after you return the car, provided there is no damage. Some banks may take up to 30 days to process the refund. The deposit is a temporary hold on your credit card — the actual amount blocked depends on the vehicle class and insurance coverage chosen.

Cross-border travel from China is often restricted or requires prior approval from the rental company. Additional insurance may be needed, and fees can apply. Some destinations may be prohibited entirely. Always check the rental terms and declare your travel plans when booking to avoid issues.