Chinese Driver's License to Korean License

Why a Chinese license can't be exchanged by paperwork alone

Korea's Road Traffic Authority (도로교통공단) exchanges foreign licenses through one of two tracks, depending on whether the issuing country has a license mutual-recognition arrangement with Korea. Holders of licenses from recognized countries only need to pass a vision/aptitude test (적성검사). China does not have this recognition, so Chinese license holders must additionally pass a simplified written test (간이학과시험) — 40 multiple-choice questions, available in Korean, English, Chinese, or Vietnamese.

Documents you'll need

Requirements can shift, so confirm the current list with 도로교통공단 or your local driver's license test center (운전면허시험장) before applying, but the standard set includes:

• Your original Chinese driver's license — it must be a full, currently valid license; learner's permits or temporary permits are not eligible for exchange
• A certified Korean translation of the license
• Proof of identity: Alien Registration Card (외국인등록증), domestic residence report, or Korean resident registration card
• Passport or a certificate of entry/exit facts showing you resided in China for at least 90 days around the time the license was issued
• 3 passport-style photos
• An embassy confirmation letter or equivalent verification, depending on the current requirement at the time of application

Why translation matters here

Because a Chinese license is not issued in Korean or English, Korean authorities require a certified translation before they can process the application. Accepted translation channels include a Korean translation-notarization office, a translation body designated by 도로교통공단, or verification through a Korean overseas consulate (재외공관 영사확인). A translation with the wrong format, missing certification, or an inconsistency against the original license is a common reason applications get sent back — this is exactly the kind of certified-translation work Apostille First specialists handle daily.

Where and how the test happens

Applications and testing are handled at a Road Traffic Authority driver's license test center (운전면허시험장) or the civil affairs desk of a local police station (경찰서 민원실). You'll first pass the aptitude test (적성검사), then take the 40-question simplified written test (간이학과시험) in your chosen language. Once both are passed and your documents are verified, the Korean license is issued.