Driving in Taiwan, China as a United States National
Taiwan offers dramatic mountain driving including Taroko Gorge and the Suhua Highway, but traffic is scooter-heavy and terrain is challenging. An IDP is required. Taiwan uses its own vehicle registration system.
Key Things to Know First
Taiwan, China requires an International Driving Permit for foreign visitors. Obtain one in United States before departure.
How to get an IDPBoth United States and Taiwan, China drive on the right. No adjustment needed.
United States uses mph, but Taiwan, China uses km/h. Verify your GPS or navigation app is set to the correct unit.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Rule | United States | Taiwan, China | Change? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic side | Right-hand traffic | Right-hand traffic | Same |
| Speed unit | mph | km/h | Yes |
| IDP required | — | Yes | Yes |
| Min. driving age | 16 | 18 | Differs |
| Emergency number | 911 | 110 | Different |
| Road difficulty | Easy | Moderate | — |
Speed Limits in Taiwan, China
Speed limits in Taiwan, China are posted in km/h (kilometres per hour). Quick reference: 50 km/h ≈ 31 mph · 100 km/h ≈ 62 mph · 130 km/h ≈ 81 mph.
Documents to Carry in Taiwan, China
- Original driving licence from United States — must be valid and unexpired
- International Driving Permit (IDP) — required in Taiwan, China. Obtain from your national motoring association before travelling.
- Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
- Car insurance certificate — verify it covers Taiwan, China before departure
- Vehicle registration / rental agreement
Emergency Number in Taiwan, China
Primary emergency number in Taiwan, China. Save it before you drive.
Emergency numbers for all countriesFull Taiwan, China Driving Guide
Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in Taiwan, China.
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