China Driving Test Appointment: Step-by-Step Booking Guide

Booking a driving test appointment in China is done through your city’s DMV online system (122 platform) or in-person at the DMV service center. Most major cities allow online booking 24-48 hours in advance, with exam slots typically available 1-3 weeks out depending on city and season. You’ll need a Chinese phone number, your application number (考试预约号), and a registered account on your city’s 122.cn website. This guide walks you through the complete booking process for both Subject 1 (theory) and road test appointments, common issues foreigners face, and how to successfully secure your preferred exam date.

This guide provides complete DIY booking instructions. We also offer assisted exam booking services with guaranteed time slots and direct DMV coordination for those who prefer simplified scheduling.

Understanding China’s Driving Test System

Which Test Are You Booking?

China’s driver’s license process has different tests depending on your situation:

For Foreign License Conversion (Most Common for Expats):

• ✅ Subject 1 exam only – If your home country has reciprocal agreement (USA, UK, Germany, Australia, Canada, etc.)
• ✅ Theory test: 100 questions, 45 minutes, 90% passing score
• ✅ Available in English, Chinese, German, French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian, Japanese, Korean
• ❌ No road test required

For New Chinese License (No Foreign License):

• ✅ Subject 1 – Theory exam (traffic rules, road signs)
• ✅ Subject 2 – Skills test (parking, curves, slopes) at closed course
• ✅ Subject 3 – Road test (actual road driving)
• ✅ Subject 4 – Safety and ethics theory exam (final step)

This guide covers booking for Subject 1 (most relevant for foreigners) and Subject 3 (road test).

Booking Systems by City

Each major city has its own booking platform (all use “122” system):

National platform: 122.gov.cn (redirects to your city’s system based on registration)

Prerequisites Before Booking

What You Need to Have Ready

1. Completed DMV Application and Document Submission

You cannot book exam until:

• ✅ You’ve submitted all required documents to DMV (passport, license translation, medical certificate, etc.)
• ✅ DMV has reviewed and accepted your application
• ✅ You’ve received your Exam Booking Number (考试预约号) – usually 8-10 digit number

Timeline: Document review takes 1-3 business days. You’ll receive SMS notification when ready to book exam.

2. Chinese Phone Number

• Required for account registration and SMS verification
• Temporary SIM card okay (¥50-100 from airport/China Mobile)
• Same number must be used throughout application process

3. WeChat or Alipay Account (Optional but Helpful)

• Some cities allow WeChat mini-program booking (easier than website)
• Payment for exam fees (¥80-100 for Subject 1)

4. Computer or Smartphone with Chinese Phone Number Access

• Desktop browser works best (Chrome or Edge recommended)
• Mobile browser works but interface less user-friendly

Step-by-Step: Booking Subject 1 Exam (Foreign License Conversion)

Method 1: Online Booking via 122 Platform (Recommended)

Step 1: Create Account on Your City’s 122 Website

1. Visit your city’s 122.cn website (e.g., bj122.cn for Beijing)
2. Click “用户注册” (User Registration) in top-right corner
3. Select “个人用户注册” (Individual User Registration)
4. Fill out registration form:
   • 手机号码 (Phone number): Your Chinese phone number
   • 验证码 (Verification code): Enter SMS code sent to your phone
   • 用户名 (Username): Create username (letters + numbers, 6-20 characters)
   • 密码 (Password): Create strong password (8-20 characters)
   • 确认密码 (Confirm password): Re-enter password
   • 真实姓名 (Real name): Your full name as on passport (can use English)
   • 证件类型 (ID type): Select “护照” (Passport)
   • 证件号码 (ID number): Your passport number
5. Check agreement box and click “注册” (Register)
6. You’ll receive confirmation SMS

Common issue: If site shows “此证件号码已注册” (this ID number already registered), you may have created account previously. Use password recovery or contact DMV helpline.

Step 2: Log In and Navigate to Exam Booking

1. Log in with username + password
2. Click “驾驶人考试” (Driver Exam) in main menu
3. Select “考试预约” (Exam Appointment Booking)
4. If first-time exam, select “科目一预约” (Subject 1 Booking)

Step 3: Enter Your Application Information

1. Enter your Exam Booking Number (考试预约号) – received from DMV via SMS or on your application receipt
2. System will auto-populate your information:
   • Name
   • ID/Passport number
   • Application type (境外驾驶证换领 – Foreign License Conversion)
   • DMV location where you applied
3. Verify information is correct
4. Click “下一步” (Next)

Step 4: Choose Exam Date and Time Slot

The system will show available exam slots:

1. Select exam venue (考场选择):
   • Most cities have multiple exam centers
   • Choose based on proximity to your location
   • Popular centers fill up faster
2. Select date (日期选择):
   • Calendar shows available dates in green, full dates in gray
   • Hover over date to see remaining slots
   • Weekdays usually have more availability than weekends
3. Select time slot (场次选择):
   • Morning session: 8:30-12:00 (most popular, book early)
   • Afternoon session: 14:00-17:00 (less crowded)
   • Each slot shows remaining capacity (剩余名额)
4. Click “确认预约” (Confirm Booking)

Pro tip: Book morning slots if possible – you’re more alert, less rushed, and if you pass you can submit application same day.

Step 5: Pay Exam Fee

1. System redirects to payment page
2. Exam fee: ¥80-100 (varies by city)
3. Payment methods:
   • WeChat Pay (recommended – scan QR code)
   • Alipay (scan QR code)
   • UnionPay bank card (enter card details)
4. Complete payment
5. You’ll receive confirmation SMS with:
   • Booking confirmation number
   • Exam date, time, and venue address
   • Instructions to bring on exam day

Step 6: Save Confirmation and Prepare

• Screenshot confirmation page
• Save booking number
• Add exam date to calendar with reminder
• Note exam venue address (use Gaode Maps or Baidu Maps to save location)

Method 2: In-Person Booking at DMV

When to use this method:

• You don’t have Chinese phone number
• Online system is fully booked
• You prefer face-to-face assistance
• Technical issues with online platform

Process:

1. Visit DMV during service hours:
   • Go to the same DMV where you submitted documents
   • Best time: 8:00-9:00 AM weekdays (avoid lunch 12:00-13:30, avoid crowds)
2. Take queue number:
   • Look for machine labeled “考试预约” (Exam Booking)
   • Or ask staff: “我要预约考试” (Wǒ yào yùyuē kǎoshì – I want to book exam)
3. Meet with booking staff:
   • Bring: Passport, application receipt with booking number, phone
   • Staff will check system for available slots
   • Tell them your preferred date/time or ask for earliest available
4. Confirm booking and pay:
   • Staff will reserve slot for you
   • Pay exam fee at cashier window (¥80-100)
   • Receive printed booking confirmation
5. Collect confirmation receipt:
   • Shows exam date, time, venue, booking number
   • Keep this safe – bring on exam day

Advantages of in-person booking:

• ✅ Staff can find earliest available slot across multiple venues
• ✅ No need for online account or Chinese phone number
• ✅ Immediate confirmation (no waiting for SMS)
• ✅ Can ask questions about exam format, location, etc.

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Must visit DMV during limited hours
• ❌ May involve waiting in queue (30-90 minutes)
• ❌ Limited to slots available at that moment (no browsing all options)

Method 3: WeChat Mini-Program Booking (Select Cities)

Available in: Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Chengdu (expanding to more cities)

Process:

1. Open WeChat
2. Search for mini-program: “交管12123” (Traffic Management 12123)
3. Register/log in with your phone number
4. Bind your Exam Booking Number (考试预约号)
5. Navigate to “考试预约” (Exam Booking)
6. Select Subject 1, choose date/time, pay via WeChat Pay
7. Receive confirmation in WeChat notifications

Advantages:

• ✅ Fastest method (entire process 5-10 minutes)
• ✅ Mobile-friendly interface
• ✅ Instant confirmation
• ✅ Can manage booking (cancel, reschedule) within app

Booking Road Test Appointment (Subject 3)

Who needs this: Those applying for Chinese license from scratch (no foreign license to convert) or from non-reciprocal countries.

Prerequisites for Road Test Booking

• ✅ Passed Subject 1 (theory exam)
• ✅ Passed Subject 2 (skills test)
• ✅ Completed mandatory training hours at registered driving school (usually 24-36 hours)
• ✅ Driving school has approved you for road test (they submit your eligibility)
• ✅ At least 10 days have passed since Subject 2 (DMV policy in most cities)

Booking Process (Similar to Subject 1)

1. Log in to 122 platform with your existing account
2. Navigate to: 驾驶人考试 → 考试预约 → 科目三预约 (Driver Exam → Exam Booking → Subject 3 Booking)
3. Select road test type:
   • 科目三道路驾驶 (Subject 3 Road Driving) – main road test
   • Note: Some cities combine Subject 3 road test with Subject 4 (safety theory) same day
4. Choose exam venue:
   • Road test uses actual public roads (not closed course)
   • Each venue has designated route
   • Research route difficulty (ask your driving school instructor)
5. Select date and time:
   • Road test slots more limited than theory (require examiner availability)
   • Book 2-4 weeks in advance
   • Morning slots (8:00-11:00) have better weather/traffic conditions
6. Pay exam fee: ¥150-200 (higher than Subject 1)
7. Receive confirmation via SMS

Road Test Booking Tips

• ✅ Coordinate with driving school: Many schools book road test for students (easier)
• ✅ Book same route you practiced: Familiarity increases pass rate
• ✅ Avoid Monday mornings and Friday afternoons: Worst traffic, lower pass rates
• ✅ Check weather forecast: Heavy rain or snow increases difficulty (can reschedule if needed)
• ✅ Book 1-2 practice sessions at test venue before actual exam

Managing Your Exam Appointment

How to View Your Booking

Online:

1. Log in to 122 platform
2. Click “我的预约” (My Appointments)
3. View all upcoming and past appointments
4. See confirmation number, date, time, venue

WeChat Mini-Program:

1. Open 交管12123 mini-program
2. View appointments in main dashboard

SMS:

• Check confirmation SMS sent when you booked
• You’ll receive reminder SMS 1 day before exam

Canceling or Rescheduling

Cancellation policy:

• Free cancellation: Up to 24 hours before exam time
• No refund: Within 24 hours of exam (forfeit exam fee)
• No-show: Counts as failed attempt (Subject 1 allows retakes, but you lose exam fee)

How to cancel/reschedule:

Option 1: Online

1. Log in to 122 platform
2. Go to “我的预约” (My Appointments)
3. Click “取消预约” (Cancel Appointment)
4. Confirm cancellation
5. To reschedule: Immediately book new appointment (slots release instantly when you cancel)

Option 2: Phone

1. Call DMV helpline: 12123 (national traffic management hotline)
2. Select language option (some cities have English support)
3. Provide booking number and passport number
4. Request cancellation
5. Reschedule by booking new appointment online or via phone

Option 3: In-person at DMV

1. Visit DMV with passport and booking confirmation
2. Request cancellation at service counter
3. Rebook immediately if desired

Important: If you cancel, exam fee is usually non-refundable but you can apply it to your next booking within 90 days (varies by city – check local policy).

What If You Miss Your Appointment?

Consequences:

• ❌ Exam fee forfeited (no refund)
• ❌ Must pay new exam fee for next attempt
• ❌ Must wait 10 days before rebooking (DMV policy)
• ❌ For road test: Counts as one failed attempt (limited attempts allowed)

Exceptions (may be excused):

• Medical emergency (require hospital documentation)
• Flight cancellation/delay (require airline documentation)
• Natural disaster or extreme weather (DMV-declared)

To request exception: Contact DMV within 24 hours of missed exam with supporting documents.

Exam Day: What to Bring and Expect

Required Documents on Exam Day

Mandatory items:

• ✅ Original passport (ID verification)
• ✅ Booking confirmation (printed or digital on phone)
• ✅ Exam admission ticket (准考证) – if issued by DMV (not all cities require this)

Recommended to bring:

• ✅ Water bottle (waiting room can be hot)
• ✅ Study materials for last-minute review
• ✅ Snack (if afternoon exam)
• ✅ Pen (to sign attendance sheet)

NOT allowed in exam room:

• ❌ Phone (must turn off and store in locker)
• ❌ Smart watch or fitness tracker
• ❌ Books, notes, or study materials
• ❌ Bags (storage lockers provided)

Exam Day Timeline

Arrive 30-45 minutes before your scheduled time

Example: 9:00 AM exam slot

• 8:15 AM: Arrive at exam center, locate check-in desk
• 8:20 AM: Check in with passport + booking confirmation, receive computer station number
• 8:25 AM: Store phone and belongings in locker
• 8:30 AM: Enter exam room, find your station
• 8:40 AM: Exam proctor gives instructions
• 8:45 AM: Log in to exam system, select language
• 9:00 AM: Exam begins (45-minute timer starts)
• 9:25 AM: You finish exam (most finish in 20-30 minutes)
• 9:25 AM: Submit exam → Immediate results on screen (PASS or FAIL)
• 9:30 AM: Print exam certificate at reception (if passed)
• 9:35 AM: Exit exam center

Exam Room Procedures

1. Identity verification: Proctor checks your passport photo vs your face
2. Photo capture: System takes your photo before exam (anti-cheating measure)
3. Log in: Enter your ID/passport number
4. Select language: Choose English, German, Chinese, or other language
5. Start exam: Click “开始考试” (Start Exam)
6. Answer questions:
   • 100 questions appear one at a time
   • Click answer → “提交” (Submit) → Next question
   • Can’t go back to previous questions (unlike practice apps)
   • Running score shown in top-right (updates after each question)
7. Submit exam:
   • After question 100, or when you’re ready
   • Click “交卷” (Submit Exam)
   • Confirm submission
8. Instant results:
   • Screen shows: “合格” (Pass) or “不合格” (Fail)
   • Your score (0-100)
   • Passing score: 90+

What If You Pass?

1. Exit exam room and go to reception desk
2. Request “科目一考试合格证明” (Subject 1 Exam Pass Certificate)
3. Certificate prints in 2-5 minutes
4. Take certificate to DMV counter (same building or nearby)
5. Submit certificate + all application documents
6. DMV processes your license application (3-10 business days)

Important: Exam pass certificate valid for 3 years. Must apply for license within that time.

What If You Fail?

1. Exit exam center (no certificate issued)
2. Exam system provides printout of questions you got wrong (ask at reception)
3. Review mistakes and study those topics
4. Wait 10 days before rebooking (DMV policy)
5. Pay new exam fee (¥80-100)
6. Rebook exam using same process

Good news: No limit on retakes for Subject 1. You can attempt unlimited times.

Common Booking Issues & Solutions

Issue #1: “No Available Slots” for 4+ Weeks

Problem: All exam slots fully booked far into future.

Causes:

• Peak season (September-November, before Spring Festival)
• High-demand city (Beijing, Shanghai)
• Limited exam center capacity

Solutions:

1. Check multiple exam venues: Less popular locations have more availability
2. Check daily for cancellations: Slots open when others cancel (check morning 9-10 AM, evening 8-9 PM)
3. Use cancellation alert services: Some WeChat mini-programs monitor cancellations (search “考试预约助手”)
4. Book in-person at DMV: Staff sometimes have access to reserved slots not shown online
5. Consider nearby city: If you can travel, smaller cities have shorter waits (e.g., Suzhou instead of Shanghai)

Issue #2: Website Shows “考试预约号不存在” (Booking Number Doesn’t Exist)

Problem: System doesn’t recognize your Exam Booking Number.

Causes:

• DMV hasn’t finished processing your application (review period)
• You entered wrong number
• System lag (data not synced)

Solutions:

1. Wait 24-48 hours: DMV typically processes applications within 1-3 business days
2. Verify number: Check SMS or application receipt for correct booking number
3. Contact DMV: Call 12123 hotline or visit in-person to check application status
4. Check different website: Sometimes booking number works on national site (122.gov.cn) but not city site

Issue #3: Can’t Receive SMS Verification Code

Problem: When registering account, SMS code doesn’t arrive.

Solutions:

1. Wait 5-10 minutes: SMS can be delayed
2. Check phone number format: Must be 11-digit Chinese mobile number (no spaces, dashes, or +86)
3. Try different network: Switch from WiFi to mobile data (or vice versa)
4. Contact phone carrier: Some numbers have SMS blocking enabled
5. Use different phone number: Borrow friend’s number or get new SIM card
6. Book in-person: Bypass online system entirely

Issue #4: Payment Fails After Booking

Problem: Booking confirmed but payment transaction failed.

What happens:

• Booking temporarily reserved (24-hour hold)
• If payment not completed within 24 hours, booking auto-cancels

Solutions:

1. Check payment method: Ensure WeChat Pay/Alipay has sufficient balance
2. Use different payment method: Try UnionPay bank card instead
3. Complete payment later: Log in to 122 platform → “未支付订单” (Unpaid Orders) → Complete payment
4. If 24 hours pass: Booking cancels, must rebook from scratch

Issue #5: Account Locked After Failed Login Attempts

Problem: Entered wrong password multiple times, account locked.

Solution:

1. Wait 2 hours: Account auto-unlocks after 2 hours (most cities)
2. Use password recovery: Click “忘记密码” (Forgot Password) → SMS verification → Reset password
3. Contact DMV: Call 12123 or visit in-person to unlock account

City-Specific Booking Details

Beijing

Booking website: bj122.cn

Exam venues: 8 major centers (most foreigner-friendly: Haidian DMV Exam Center)

Availability: High demand, book 3-4 weeks ahead

Best time to book: Tuesday-Thursday mornings (fewer people rebooking after Monday exams)

Helpline: 010-12123 (English support limited)

Shanghai

Booking website: sh122.cn

Exam venues: 12 centers (most convenient: Baoshan DMV Exam Center – near subway)

Availability: Moderate demand, 1-2 weeks advance booking

WeChat booking: Supported via 交管12123 mini-program

Advantages: Better English support, more exam slots than Beijing

Helpline: 021-12123

Shenzhen

Booking website: sz122.cn

Exam venues: 6 centers (most popular: Futian DMV Exam Center)

Availability: Best in China – book 3-7 days ahead

Digital-friendly: Fully integrated with WeChat, Alipay; no paper receipts needed

Advantages: Fastest processing, most expat-friendly, English signs in exam centers

Helpline: 0755-12123

Guangzhou

Booking website: gz122.cn

Exam venues: 10 centers (recommended: Tianhe DMV Exam Center)

Availability: Moderate, 1-2 weeks advance

Special: Guangzhou allows booking for multiple exams in sequence (Subject 1 + Subject 4 same day)

Helpline: 020-12123

Booking Tips from Successful Foreign Test-Takers

Strategic Timing

• ✅ Book weekday mornings: Less crowded, you’re more alert, can apply for license same afternoon
• ✅ Avoid Mondays: Everyone books Monday after weekend (higher competition for slots)
• ✅ Avoid Chinese holidays: Spring Festival, Golden Week, Dragon Boat Festival (centers closed or limited capacity)
• ✅ Summer is easier: June-August have more availability (fewer Chinese students taking exams)

Venue Selection

• ✅ Choose venue near your home/hotel: Less travel stress on exam day
• ✅ Check venue reviews: Search on WeChat or Chinese forums for “venue name + 考点评价” (test center reviews)
• ✅ Visit venue beforehand: Do reconnaissance – know where to park, where entrance is, how long to get there
• ✅ Less popular = more availability: Venues in suburbs have more slots than city center locations

Preparation While Waiting for Exam Date

• ✅ Don’t stop studying: Even after booking, continue daily practice (30 min/day)
• ✅ Take mock exams every 3 days: Maintain readiness (score should stay 90+)
• ✅ Focus on weak areas: Use study app analytics to identify categories you struggle with
• ✅ Join study group: WeChat groups for foreigners taking Chinese driving test (search “外国人驾考交流”)

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I book the exam?

Most cities allow booking 2-4 weeks in advance. High-demand cities like Beijing: 3-4 weeks. Lower-demand cities like Shenzhen: 1-2 weeks. Slots typically open on rolling basis (e.g., if today is Jan 1, you can book until Jan 28).

Can I book exam before submitting documents to DMV?

No. You must first submit all application documents, receive DMV approval, and get your Exam Booking Number before you can book exam appointment.

Do I need to book in-person if I’m a foreigner?

No. Online booking works for foreigners. You just need passport number (instead of Chinese ID number) and Chinese phone number. Process is same as for Chinese citizens.

How long does exam booking take?

Online booking: 10-20 minutes (if you have account already set up). In-person booking: 30-90 minutes (including queue wait time).

Can I book multiple exam attempts at once?

No. You can only book one exam at a time. If you fail, you must wait 10 days and book again.

What if all time slots are full?

Check daily for cancellations (people cancel 24-48 hours before exam). Or try different exam venue. Or book in-person at DMV (staff can access reserved slots). Or wait for next month’s slots to open.

Can someone else book the exam for me?

No. Booking must be done by the applicant (you) because it requires your passport number and phone number verification. However, agent services can assist with the process (but you still need to provide information).

Is there a deadline for taking the exam after document submission?

Yes. After DMV approves your application, you must take exam within 3 years (exam booking number valid 3 years). After passing, you must apply for license within 3 years of exam pass date.

Summary: Your Exam Booking Action Plan

Step 1: Submit Documents to DMV (Day 1)

• Bring all required documents (passport, license translation, medical certificate, photos)
• DMV reviews application (1-3 business days)
• Receive Exam Booking Number via SMS

Step 2: Create Online Account (Day 3-5)

• Visit your city’s 122.cn website
• Register with Chinese phone number + passport number
• Verify via SMS

Step 3: Book Exam (Day 5-7)

• Log in to 122 platform
• Enter Exam Booking Number
• Choose exam venue, date, time slot
• Pay exam fee (¥80-100) via WeChat Pay/Alipay
• Save confirmation SMS

Step 4: Study While Waiting (Day 7-21)

• Use study apps (Driving Test China, China Driving Test App)
• Take daily practice tests until consistently scoring 92+
• Review weak categories

Step 5: Take Exam (Day 21)

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Bring passport + booking confirmation
• Complete 100 questions in 45 minutes
• Pass with 90+ score
• Collect exam certificate
• Submit to DMV for license processing

Total timeline: 3-4 weeks from document submission to exam

Booking your China driving test appointment is straightforward once you understand the 122 platform system. The key is having your documents approved by DMV first, creating your online account with a Chinese phone number, and booking 1-3 weeks in advance (depending on city demand). Most foreigners successfully book online in 10-20 minutes. For those who encounter technical issues or prefer assistance, in-person booking at DMV remains a reliable alternative.

For those who prefer guaranteed exam slots and coordinated booking assistance, our exam booking service handles the entire process from account creation through exam confirmation, ensuring you get your preferred date and venue without navigating the Chinese-language booking system.