Differences between Chinese and foreign traffic rules
1.Road Driving Rules
| Aspect | China | Common Abroad (Europe, US, parts of Asia) | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving Side | Drive on the right, driver’s seat on the left | Most countries drive on the right; UK, Japan, Australia drive on the left | Visitors from left-driving countries should pay extra attention |
| Speed Limits | Highways: 100–120 km/h; City roads: 40–60 km/h | Some countries allow higher speeds (e.g., Germany has unlimited sections) | City limits in China are stricter, and speed cameras are common |
| Overtaking | Always overtake on the left; right-side overtaking is illegal | Some countries allow right-side overtaking depending on the situation | Right-side overtaking in China can lead to fines |
| Right of Way When Turning | Turning vehicles must yield to straight-going vehicles and pedestrians | In some countries (like parts of the US), straight vehicles yield to right turns | In China, straight vehicles usually have priority |
| Right Turn on Red | Mostly allowed after stopping and yielding to pedestrians | US allows right turn on red; some European countries forbid it | In China, you must stop first, then check before turning |
| Drinking & Driving | BAC ≥20mg/100ml = DUI; ≥80mg/100ml = drunk driving (criminal penalty) | Some countries have higher limits (e.g., UK 80mg) | China’s rules are stricter and enforcement more frequent |
| Driver’s License | Foreign licenses must be converted to Chinese license or use a temporary permit | Some countries accept international driving permits directly | International driving permits are invalid in China; must arrange in advance |
2. Pedestrians & Cycling
| Aspect | China | Common Abroad | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crossing Streets | Use crosswalks; cars should yield, but not always | Vehicles strictly yield in many developed countries | Foreign visitors should watch carefully when crossing |
| Jaywalking | Illegal; some cities use cameras to fine | Illegal, but enforcement varies | Large cities in China enforce strictly |
| Bike Lanes | Bikes & e-bikes should stay in designated lanes | Some countries share lanes with cars or have separate lanes | Riding outside lanes in China can get fined |
| Shared Bikes | Unlock via apps, park in designated spots | Some countries don’t have fixed parking areas | Tourists need apps like Alipay, WeChat, or Didi |
3. Public Transport Rules
| Aspect | China | Common Abroad | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subway Security | All passengers go through security checks; bags checked | Most countries don’t have subway security | Allow extra time for security checks |
| Eating & Drinking | Mostly forbidden; violators fined | Some cities allow eating | In China, eating on subways can get warnings or fines |
| Ride-Hailing Apps | Didi, Shouqi require real-name accounts | Uber, Lyft may allow anonymous accounts | Foreigners must use WeChat/Alipay or international versions |
| High-Speed Trains | ID/passport required for ticket check | Most countries just check tickets | Passport info must be entered when booking |
4. Special Rules & Cultural Notes
- Crosswalk Courtesy: Legally, cars must yield, but drivers may not fully stop. Pedestrians need to judge safety themselves.
- E-Bike Behavior: E-bikes are common, flexible, and sometimes ride against traffic or on sidewalks—stay alert.
- Horn Usage: Drivers may honk frequently in cities, unlike the quieter roads of some countries.
- Traffic Cameras: Speeding, running lights, or illegal lane changes are automatically fined. Enforcement is highly automated.
- Weather Impacts: Heavy fog, rain, or snow may close highways—less common in some countries.
- Highway Tolls: Most expressways charge fees, with occasional free days during major holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, National Day).
- City Driving Restrictions: In cities like Beijing and Shanghai, cars may have restricted days based on license plate numbers. Check with rental companies for details.
