EXPATRIATES holding an overseas driver's license will be able to receive a Chinese license without a test after a new regulation takes effect Jan. 1.

Foreign drivers can obtain a temporary driving permit after undergoing training in China's traffic laws and regulations, according to the new rule issued by the Ministry of Public Security.

Driving without a license or with an expired permit will face a fine of up to 2,000 yuan (US$255).

At present foreigners have to pass a written exam on Chinese traffic rules before a temporary license can be issued. A road test is also needed if they want a license for heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks and container trailers.

The existing regulation dates from 1989 but is no longer suitable in dealing with rapidly growing trade and traffic, the ministry said.

A large number of overseas passenger and freight vehicles cross into the Chinese mainland at border zones for short periods, the ministry said.

The new regulation also applies to motorists from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan.

Foreign journalists driving in China during the 2008 Olympics will be treated as "special cases," the ministry said, hinting that they will enjoy more convenience.

The new rule requires foreign automobiles entering China temporarily to have liability insurance and safety and technical inspection certificates.

The regulation also requires foreign automobiles to drive in designated areas and on designated routes, and leave China by a certain date.

Statistics from the ministry shows that in 2005, vehicles driven by foreigners caused 95 traffic accidents leading to 28 deaths and 90 injuries.

Altogether, a total of 40 foreigners died and 198 were injured on China's roads last year.

Foreigners visiting China for a short period can only drive automobiles brought from outside China or authorized rental compact and automatic compact models, according to the new rule.

(SD-Xinhua)