Why doesn't China recognize an international driver's license?

Differences in traffic regulations and standards, language and cultural barriers, traffic management needs and illegal residence control. According to the official website display of the Ministry of Communications.

1. Differences in traffic regulations and standards: There are differences in traffic regulations and driving standards in different countries, including driving rules, road signs and traffic signals. In order to ensure the safety on the roads in China, China requires foreign drivers to abide by the traffic laws of China and hold a driver's license that meets the standards of China.

2. Language and cultural barriers: international driver's license uses international standard driving words and English, while traffic signs and traffic instructions in China use Chinese. Therefore, foreign drivers face language and cultural barriers, resulting in insufficient understanding of traffic signs and instructions.

3. Traffic management demand: As a country with a large population and dense traffic, China needs to strictly control and standardize traffic management. Restricting the use of international driver's license can better manage traffic and reduce the risk of traffic accidents.

4. Control illegal residence: Restricting the use of international driver's license can also control illegal immigration or illegal residence, because foreign drivers with international driver's licenses are for temporary travel or short-term stay.