Experience the ultimate adventure with our China Overland Tours and China Self-Drive Tours. Whether you plan to drive your own vehicle into China or rent a 4WD locally, China Exploration has been a trusted specialist in overland travel since 1996.
   Driving in China with a foreign vehicle requires temporary Chinese driving permits, vehicle registration, customs clearance, and approvals from multiple government authorities. Our experienced team takes care of the entire application process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

       Driving your own vehicle into China is more than simply carrying an International Driving Permit. It requires temporary Chinese driving licenses, vehicle registration, customs clearance, and approvals from multiple government authorities—a process that usually takes several months. With decades of experience, China Exploration handles all the required permits and paperwork, ensuring your China self-drive or overland tour is smooth, legal, and hassle-free.

     Firstly, your travel itinerary and application must be submitted well in advance for approval by multiple Chinese government authorities. Once approved, your travel dates and route cannot be changed. The process involves several departments, including customs, public security, tourism, transportation, and other relevant authorities. China Exploration manages the entire application process, ensuring all approvals are completed before your journey begins.

      Only after all required permits have been approved can the Chinese traffic authorities issue a temporary Chinese driving licence and temporary vehicle license plates. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not valid in China, and a Carnet de Passages alone does not authorize you to drive. Without the necessary Chinese permits and documents, you will not be allowed to enter China with your vehicle. China Exploration takes care of the entire process, ensuring your journey starts smoothly and legally.  

    According to Chinese regulations, all foreign self-drive and overland tours must be accompanied by a licensed Chinese tour escort throughout the journey. Your vehicle must have one available seat for the guide. In addition to meeting government requirements, your guide serves as an interpreter, travel assistant, and local expert, helping with border procedures, permits, accommodation, navigation, and any unexpected situations to ensure a safe, smooth, and enjoyable journey.

    So choosing a reliable Chinese tour operator is essential for a successful China self-drive or overland adventure. With the right partner, the complicated procedures become simple—you only need to provide the required documents and meet our guide at the border on arrival.
   As pioneer with over 30 years of experience in China overland tours, China Exploration specializes in organizing foreign vehicle entry, permits, temporary driving licenses, and professional tour escort services, making your journey into China smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
 

    Our service falls into two types: 
 

Raymond and Lucie’s Overland Tour in China by Self-driving in 2017 
Norway Ladies Driving Through China in 2016 
Wissam's Motorbike Riding Tour in China
The happy join-in overland tour of Harry in October of 2014
The Sigmund family's self-driving China overland tour in 2010
Salute to the 78 Years Old Driver Mr. Finn Halberg